Summer is here, and if you’re travelling around Japan, chances are you’ll be using Tokyo Station station at some point.
We recently covered 6 must-buy souvenirs at Tokyo Station. Today we’ll be looking at the most popular Japanese and western sweets you can pick up there as ranked by sales.
Western Sweets & Snacks
1st Place: Maple Butter Cookie (Contains 18) – ¥1,900 (Tax Included) / Sold @ The Maple Mania
These cookies are made from maple sugar and fermented butter and baked with dark chocolate in the middle to make a crunchy cookie sandwich. They have been the most popular treat since they were released♡
2nd Place: Tokyo Station Waffles (10 Included) – ¥1,300 (Tax Included) / Sold @ R.L waffle cake
A flagship product of R.L. Waffle Cake, their fluffy waffles contain cream and fruit. These Tokyo Station exclusives have been improved this year and are now made with bamboo charcoal. This set of 10 plain waffles are available for a limited time only.
3rd Place: Tokyo Gianduja Chocolate Pie (Contains 8) – ¥1,080 (Tax Included) / Sold @ Caffarel
Chocoholics are going to love Caffarel’s chocolate pies which are made lusciously with their gianduja chocolate. The pies enjoy repeat purchases from people who enjoy the crunchy outside of the pie and rich chocolate centre. They are enjoyed by people of all ages.
4th Place: Tokyo Kaminariya (Contains 8) – ¥1,062 (Tax Included) / Sold @ Tokyo Kaminariya
Tokyo Kaminariya is known for its sweet cone puffs which topped with fluffy cream, nuts and sesame seed bean paste. They are shaped like the god of thunder’s horn and are cat tongue biscuits containing fragrant rice flour.
5th Place: Tokyo Station Assorted Cookies (Contains 20) – ¥1,965 (Tax Included) / Sold @ Tokyo Milk Cheese
This cookie assortment features the classic Salt & Camembert and Honey & Gorgonzola flavours. A perfect souvenir from Tokyo with its cute packaging!
Japanese Sweets & Snacks
1st Place: Kinpira Gobo (1 Bag) – ¥350 (Tax Included) / Sold @ Nishikihonrin
This crispy snack retains the original flavour of the ingredients and is made using 100% domestic wheat flour. It contains great burdock and spicy finely chopped vegetable flavours. It’s a perfect little treat to yourself or someone you know and is a hit with foreign customers!
2nd Place: Mame Daifuku: ¥206 (Tax Included) / Sold @ Ginza Kanra
A hallmark product of Ginza Kanra, these soft daifuku contain whole adzuki beans grown by contracted farmers. Their simple flavour has transcended generations and is a beloved traditional Japanese dessert with all ages.
3rd Place: Panda no Tabi (Contains 5) – ¥1,080 (Tax Included) / Sold @ Keishindo
Keishindo’s senbei shrimp rice cookies have various designs on them including cute pandas as well as famous sites in Tokyo such as Tokyo Tower and Kaminarimon. Exclusive to Tokyo Station, these are a fun and delicious choice.
4th Place: Wasanbon (Contains 9) – ¥756 (Tax Included) / Sold @ Kurio Shoten Gransta
Wasanbon is a type of traditional Japanese sugar. This product is made with traditional molasses which has been used since the store first opened. Using high quality sugar, Kurio Shoten has created a sweet and simple delicious snack.
5th Place: edocco Nami Ningyo Yaki – ¥1,080 (Tax Included) / Sold @ Hattendo & edocco
Ningyo yaki are little baked doll cakes, and these ones have a “raw” texture to them which is both moist and chewy, a texture enjoyed by Japanese people.
Did you enjoy this list? Be sure you get to try all the sweets and snacks you can in Japan and share them as souvenirs when you travel back home!
Information
Tokyo Station Official Website: http://www.tokyostationcity.com/en/
RECOMMENDED ENTRIES
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It is already summer! As people return to their families in the countryside or embark on a special trip with friends, Tokyo station is just a thriving hive of busy bees. That is why today we will be introducing you to a variety of general souvenirs that you can buy at Tokyo Station and take to your friends and family.
Souvenirs for Visitors to Japan
Tokyo Station Hand Towel (SHARED TOKYO): ￥1,404 (after tax ) ※ GRANSTA-limited
This hand towel is decorated with classic illustrations of Tokyo Station’s reliefs and clematis flowers. The flowers portray the message: “happiness of travellers”
Furoshiki Patchin (SHARED TOKYO ) 1 set: ￥2,484 (after tax)
This is a beautiful shaped piece of wood with four holes. When you wrap your bento lunch inside a cloth, this piece of wood comes in handy when tying the corners of the cloth together. In moments, you can turn a normal piece of cloth into a useful bag. When you are going on a trip and have lots of luggage, this will come in very handy.
Character-themed Souvenirs
Suica Penguin O-mikuji Fortunes (TRAINIART TOKYO): ￥594 each (after tax)
Perhaps you are familiar with the Suica card, which is a form of rechargeable contactless card used to pay for train fares in Japan. For fans of the adorable Suica Penguin, which is the mascot of the card, this gift is a must. Peel off the sticker on the bottom and a red string will be revealed. Pull the string and your fortune will be revealed to you!
Unusual Souvenirs
Stained Glass-Style Bookmark (Neue ): ￥1,188 (after tax)
How about a luxurious stained glass-style book mark? This would make the perfect gift for any bookworm. Just having this would make you excited to get reading.
Bullet Train Souvenirs
TOKYO STATION SOCKS (Happy Socks): ￥972 (children )/￥ 1,620 (prices after tax ) ※GRANSTA-limited
The pop-coloured socks are perfect for pumping energy through any child’s feet! There are also socks for adults which come in more mature colours which are easier to colour coordinate. These socks are easy to put on and are a great way to add a touch of cuteness to your look.
Electric Pen: E6 Series Super Komachi Shinkansen /Electric Car Pen E5 Hayabusa (Neue): ￥648 (after tax)
Tip the pen and the bullet train will zip to Tokyo Marunouchi Station. There’s no doubt that train fans and children would love to get this present.
We hope this article helps you choose a souvenir on your next visit to Tokyo station.
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The area surrounding Tokyo Station is home to many different types of hotels. One standout location is Hotel Ryumeikan Tokyo. This hotel, which featured in Michelin Guide Tokyo 2017, renovated 30% of its guest rooms as part of its 10th anniversary. Its concept is a modern-style ryokan (a traditional Japanese in) and it stands just so as the closest to Tokyo Station. Today, we will take a look at the hotel’s design rooms.
Of its 38 rooms, 33 of them take on a ryokan style design. The rooms are fitted with small tatami flooring spaces where guests must take their shoes off on which sits a small chabudai, a short-legged table, on a raised floor. These elements have a nostalgic quality to them with Japanese guests and an inherently Japanese feel to them for foreign guests.
The carpet is decorated with a chrysanthemum design in a traditional Japanese dusky purple colour.
There are also kendama toys, books on Japanese confections and more to elevate that feeling of Japanese culture. There is plenty of space for tired bodies to relax after a long day trip.
The other 5 rooms are “Office Rooms” made with business workers in mind. They come with a big sofa and whiteboards to create a lounge-type space.
All of the bed mattresses are the highest quality models provided by long-standing bed makers Nishikawa. They aren’t excessively soft which I really liked and ensure a long, deep and natural sleep.
Rooms come with three types of original tea blended by the staff so you can pick whichever caters to your mood that day.
The feature you must absolutely try however is the hotel’s breakfast. It’s served in a buffet style so there is plenty to choose from with everything from Japanese-style food to Western-style. The buffet is packed with vegetables too so you can get your daily intake nice and early.
All of the new rooms are double rooms and are priced from ¥27,000 per night. The price changes depending on the season to be sure to check the official website for more details.
If you’re looking for a taste of Japan with that ryokan feel then be sure to check out Hotel Ryumeikan Tokyo.
Information
Hotel Ryumeikan Tokyo
Address: 1-3-22 Yaesu, Chuo Ward, Tokyo
Access: 3-minutes on foot from Tokyo Station’s JR Yaesu Exit
Official Website:https://www.ryumeikan-tokyo.jp/english/
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Tokyo Gourmet Zone in Tokyo Station’s First Avenue shopping complex turned 1 year old on June 28. To celebrate its 1st anniversary, the station’s Pokémon Store located along Tokyo Character Street is teaming up with Tokyo Gourmet Zone to host a Pokémon-themed event where you can meet Pikachu, get your hands on original merchandise, and more.
From July 13th to 15th at 11:00-15:00, if you order a soft drink or dessert at participating restaurants in Tokyo Gourmet Zone you can receive the above-pictured 1st anniversary lunch mat with a Pikachu design. These are limited to 1,000 per day on a first-come, first-served basis.
You can also get a photo with Pikachu on the same three days. Your photo will be printed with an original photo frame.
Over at the photo spot, you can get your photo taken next to 278 Pokémon plush toys. This is running right now until September 1 and includes Pokémon No. 001-251 in the Pokédex and all 28 forms of Unown.
Several restaurants at Tokyo Gourmet Zone are also serving special meals in celebration of the 1st anniversary. These are available now until July 31.
Head to Tokyo Gourmet Zone and help Pikachu in celebrating their first year!
©2019 Pokemon. ©1995-2019 Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK inc.
Pokémon, ポケットモンスター and ポケモン are registered trademarks of Nintendo, Creatures and Game Freak.
Information
Tokyo Gourmet Zone 1st Anniversary x Pokémon Tokyo Station
Running: June 28 – September 1, 2019
Location: Tokyo Station First Avenue Floor 2F (Tokyo Station Yaesu North Exit Floor 2F)
Official 1st Anniversary Website: https://www.tokyoeki-1bangai.co.jp/tokyogourmetzone1st/
Photo With Pikachu Event
Running: July 13 – 15, 2019
Slots: ①11:00 / ②13:00 / ③15:00 / ④17:00 (30 minutes each)
Participation: Free
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Kyo Yakasa Pudding opened its doors to the world back in April, and since then they have whipped up many different kinds of Japanese custard pudding, known as purin. Earlier this month they released their all new “Yasaka Cider,” a jelly-like drink which became a hit on Japanese Instagram (search with #京八坂プリン).
The shop’s most popular product since launching is the Kyo Yasaka Pudding―named just like the shop. It has a honey and lemon flavoured jelly which is full of agar and mango jelly balls, giving it a cute appearance and very refreshing flavour and completely new kind of texture.
Now, the shop has released its new Yasaka Cider. The word “Cider” in Japanese doesn’t actually refer to the alcoholic drink, but instead is usually a carbonated mixture of lemon and/or lime.
Available this summer only, the Yasaka Cider is the perfect accompaniment for cooling yourself down while strolling the streets of Kyoto, filled with Kyo Yasaka Pudding jelly, agar balls, mango jelly balls, and an in-house made lemon slice and honey mix. The beverage is made fresh to order and comes in a cute bag which you can carry around easily with you.
There are lots of great photo opportunities for Instagram in the store too! If you’re in or travelling to Kyoto this summer then be sure to stop.
Information
Kyo Yakasa Pudding
Address: 87-4 Hoshinocho, Higashiyama, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
Opening Hours: 10:00-17:30
No Fixed Holidays
Website: http://www.kyo-yasaka-pudding.co.jp
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Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Japan (KKDJ) is carving its jack-o-lanterns out early this year in time for Halloween as it reveals its new series of holiday-themed doughnuts titled “MONSTER HARVEST in Monster DINER.”
This pumpkin, chestnut and apple flavoured selection will be available at most Krispy Kreme branches across Japan from September 11 to October 31.
Pumpkin Custard Jack
Price: ¥230
The jack-o-lantern is the centrepiece of Halloween, and now you can much on one in doughnut form! Its face is coated in dark chocolate and filled with a velvety pumpkin custard cream. It also contains some pumpkin seeds for a crunch.
Black Cat Chestnut
Price: ¥250
The black cat’s dark chocolate covered face includes crunchy cracker ears, giant white chocolate button eyes, and caramel chocolate nose and whiskers. Inside it’s filled with a rich chestnut cream made from domestic chestnuts. The bottom part of the face is also sprinkled with tasty poppy seeds.
Apple Caramel Monster
Price: ¥230
This cute apple monster is a new addition to the KKDJ Halloween range. It’s made from a juicy, sweet and sour apple nappage made from the juice of apples grown in Aomori Prefecture. The single eyeball is made from a mix of white and dark chocolate and is what makes this doughnut so cute. The single pumpkin seed at the top completes the monster’s apple disguise.
Halloween Sprinkle
Price: ¥190
Covered in rainbow sprinkles, this custard pudding (purin) flavoured doughnut is subtly sweet and satisfyingly crunchy.
Halloween Dozen (Box of 12)
Price: ¥2,000
If you’re having a Halloween party with family or friends then this box of dozen doughnuts is the perfect treat, containing all of the above doughnuts as well as some of KKDJ’s classic doughnuts. You save ¥440 by picking up this box.
Don’t miss this year’s seasonal delights from Krispy Kreme.
Information
MONSTER HARVEST in Monster DINER
Running: September 11, 2019 – October 31, 2019
Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Japan Website: https://krispykreme.jp/ -
Japan is a haven for bubble tea and tapioca-based beverages. Here on MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON we have covered many stores selling these tasty drinks in Harajuku―the town which started the tapioca boom in Japan―but today we will be heading southwest of Tokyo to Aichi Prefecture, located in central Honshu Island, to look at 4 must-drink tapioca drinks.
We are joined by meme whose Instagram page is packed full of drinks and desserts from cafes across Japan.
The Flower Table in Sakae
Located inside the MITSUKOSHI shopping complex in Nagoya’s retail and entertainment district Sakae is The Flower Table. I absolutely recommend this store for those who aren’t good with sweet drinks as you can choose between having sugar or no sugar.
Your taste buds are hit by the flavour of the milk tea on the first sip which has a bite to it. The tea leaves used by the shop in this drink are from Kusumi Tea, a Paris-based premium tea brand.
If you’re someone who likes chai then this taste is sure to tempt your palate. Not only does the milk tea taste exquisite, the tapioca pearls are sweet and satisfyingly chewy too. And let’s not forget to mention their adorable takeout cup designs!
▼The Flower Table
Address: MITSUKOSHI Nagoya Sakae Store Floor 3F, 3-5-1 Sakae, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture
Opening Hours: 10:00-19:30 (Food Last Orders 19:30)
*Food not served until 11am, only drinks between 10-11am
*Afternoon tea sets, parfaits and other teatime menu options served from 2pmOfficial Website: https://theflowertable.owst.jp/en/
BON CAFÉ in Sakae
BON CAFÉ can also be found in Sakae. I had heard lots of praise about this place before my first visit so I was eager to get in there. I ordered two drinks: the mango cream cheese tea (with cream and tapioca pearls) and the brown sugar milk tea (with tapioca pearls). It’s hard to tell by the photos but both drinks are packed with tapioca pearls aplenty.
I’d heard before that the mango cream cheese tea was like a “dessert that you can drink,” and I can confirm that it’s true. It’s topped with fresh cream and pearls so it’s just as satisfying as a mango parfait.
▼BON CAFÉ
Address: Apa Hotel Nagoya Nishiki Floor 2F, Nishiki 3-15-30, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture
Opening Hours: 11:00-23:00 (Last Orders 22:00)
No Fixed Holidays
Official Website: https://bon-cafe.jp/tapioca/
Peripatos in Kita-Okazaki
Drinks at Peripatos are takeout-only. Their bottle designs are cute and simple with just a kitty illustration on them. The three drinks in the photo are Very Berry, Tropical, and Hazelnut & Caramel Sauce with coffee jelly.
The tropical drink has pieces of fresh mango in it while the Very Berry has fresh strawberry and chewy strawberry flavoured tapioca pearls in it. My friend ordered the Hazelnut & Caramel one which has coffee flavoured jelly in it instead of tapioca pearls. You sip it while crushing the jelly.
The shop interior is really cute too!
▼Peripatos
Address: 4-4 Ida Nishimachi, Okazaki, Aichi Prefecture
Opening Hours: [Mon-Tues & Fri-Sat] 11:00-21:30 / [Thurs & Sun] 11:00-18:00
Closed: Wednesdays
Official Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/c.peripatos/
Watashi to Cafe in Kariya
At Watashi to Cafe I ordered the strawberry milk tapioca drink. The pearls in this drink are strawberry flavoured too, and there’s a lot of them making is super tasty. The glasses they come in are cute too.
They also sell beautiful herbarium-like drinks. These don’t have tapioca pearls in them but I recommend these too!
▼Watashi to Cafe
Address: 2-20 Minamisakuramachi, Kariya, Aichi Prefecture
Opening Hours: Lunch 11:00-15:00 / Dinner 15:00-Midnight
Closed: Tuesdays
Official Website: https://watashitocafe.gorp.jp/
Did you enjoy this list? meme has lots of other tempting recommendations of drinks and desserts on their Instagram page too, so if you’re looking for something to try while in the Tokai region of Japan be sure to give them a follow.
Translation: Joshua Kitosi-Isanga
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Get ready for some spooky fun as Tokyo Disney Resort® transforms for the 52-day-long horrifically exciting Disney Halloween from September 10 to October 31. Head to DisneySea to be captivated by the new harbor show Festival of Mystique, or get spooked out of your skin at the Spooky “Boo!” Parade at Disneyland. Today, we will be revealing the spooky looks of both parks.
Tokyo DisneySea Festival of Mystique Costumes
Working with the main theme of a medieval European halloween, inspiration has been taken from the living creatures and waves at the port town Porto Paradiso.
Mickey Mouse’s costume inspiration comes from the the bones and scaly body of a sea creature. He will also be seen wearing a broach decorated with beautiful jewels.
Minnie Mouse’s costume resembles that of a medieval princess. You will see her in a fancy hat that bears beautiful pearls. Her costume is covered in scales on the chest and on the back which really suits her.
Tokyo Disneyland’s Spooky Boo! Parade Costumes
Disney friends have joined forces with a group of spooky spirits. You just can’t miss out on this rare chance to see your favourite Disney characters disguised as ghosts and skeletons. The strange and unusual atmosphere is sure to send a chilling shiver down your spine.
Mickey and Minnie will be completely refreshing their colourful look. Mickey’s necktie and Minnie’s skirt are very mysterious and particularly intriguing. Please come check them out!
Enjoy the beautiful costumes and the fun range of events this Halloween at Tokyo Disney Resort.
©️Disney
Information
Disney Halloween
Running: September 10 ー October 31
Tokyo Disney Resort Official Website: https://www.tokyodisneyresort.jp/
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Häagen-Dazs just released their new Purple Sweet Potato Tartelettes and Rich Pumpkin mini ice cream cups in Japan. They will be available for a limited time only.
Purple Sweet Potato Tartelette
Concealed inside a crispy coating laced with purple sweet potato powder is a rich custard ice cream seeping in a subtly sweet purple sweet potato sauce. A tried and tested treat for autumntime, these crispy ice cream sandwiches not only taste like the sweet purple root vegetable, but they also take on their vibrant colour too.
Through much trial and error, Häagen-Dazs have been able to create the perfect harmony of flavours between the sweet potato and ice cream. The custard ice cream brings the richness of the egg and lifts the notes of the sweet potato to even greater heavenly heights.
Rich Pumpkin Mini Cup Ice Cream
The new pumpkin ice cream is drizzled in a pumpkin sauce packed full of plump pumpkin perfection. And by cooking fresh pumpkin, the flavour is condensed and made even richer, filling your mouth with the gentle sweetness of pumpkin.
Both the ice cream and the sauce are made with Ebisu pumpkins from Hokkaido. And like the tartelettes, these mini ice cream cups retain that bright original flavour of the squash plant.
Taste the flavours of all with these two new delicious desserts from Häagen-Dazs.
Information
Häagen-Dazs Crispy Sandwich Murasaki Imo (Purple Sweet Potato) Tartelette (Limited Edition)
Release Date: August 20, 2019
Price: ¥319 (Tax Included)
Available: At supermarkets, convenience stores and department stores in Japan
Product Page: https://www.haagen-dazs.co.jp/murasaki_imo_tart/
Häagen-Dazs Mini Cup Rich Pumpkin (Limited Edition)
Release Date: August 20, 2019
Price: ¥319 (Tax Included)
Available: At supermarkets, convenience stores and department stores in Japan
Product Page: https://www.haagen-dazs.co.jp/rich_pumpkin/
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Hokkaido is a popular tourist destination for Japanese people as well as foreigners. During the winter, it is the perfect place to go skiing and during the summer, you will not suffer under sweltering heat like the rest of Japan. Hokkaido not only flourishes with wonderful tourist locations and delicious gourmet seafood, but also beautiful and stylish cafés.
In this feature, we are joined by Instagrammer Kei whose page is centred around cafes in Sapporo, Hokkaido. They have provided us with photos of desserts made with peaches which can be enjoyed right now before summertime ends.
Initial Sapporo in Susukino
Parfait Pêche – ¥1,700
Sapporo cafe Initial was ahead of the parfait game before the boom in Japan. Right now they are selling two new parfaits: one made with melon and the other with peach. They are being served until the end of August.
The parfait is topped with sweet sliced peaches underneath which sits refreshing milk flavoured soft serve ice cream for a heavenly combination. The yogurt mousse elevates the sweetness of the peaches and goes well with the sprinkle of black pepper. There’s even Parmesan cheese which tastes gorgeous with everything. No matter where you stick your spoon in this parfait your taste buds will be treated with delight.
▼Initial
Address: DRESS 2F, 5-Chome-36 Minami 3 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Opening Hours: [Weekdays] 17:00-Midnight / [Weekends & Public Holidays] 14:00-Midnight (Last Orders 23:30)
No Fixed Holidays
Access: 5-minutes on foot from Susukino Station and Ōdōri Station
Official Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/INITIAL.sapporo/Gohanya Cafe Miyabi in Kita 24 Jo
Whole Peach & Royal Milk Tea – ¥1,380The seasonal parfait at Gohanya Cafe Miyabi right now is the Whole Peach & Royal Milk Tea. It’s served with an entire plump peach on top which is best enjoyed by cutting and eating bit by bit until it drops into the glass. The peaches they use are refreshing and really delicious♡
Tea is the main component of this parfait and that too was super refreshing. It also includes a framboise sorbet which add satisfying sour notes, and the cookies and other hidden treats add a multitude of tasty textures.
▼Gohanya Cafe Miyabi
Address: E-COUR24 1F, 3-Chome-1-1 Kita 24 Jonishi, Kita Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Opening Hours: Lunch 11:00-15:00 / Cafe Time 15:00-17:30 / Dinner 17:30-21:00 (Last Orders 20:00)
Closed: Thursdays
Access: 150 meters from Kita-Nijūyo-Jō Station
Official Website: https://miyabi-sapporo.shopinfo.jp/TSURU CAFE in Miyanomori
Flavour Soft Peach – ¥830TSURU CAFE is a stylish and popular little cafe that is selling its new Flavour Soft Peach for a limited time. The syrup is this parfait is in fact made from red shiso leaf. Inside you will find a tower of peach compote, soft serve ice cream, meringue, and the syrup.
The milky ice cream is a a magical mix together with the peach compote. The crunchy meringue is simply melt-in-your-mouth too♡
The syrup has that distinct red shiso fragrance but it tastes sweet and so makes an amazing flavour. The shiso will no longer be served once sales of this dessert finish, so you’ll want to get in there ASAP!
▼TSURU CAFE
Address: 5-Chome-2-8 Miyanomori 2 Jo, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Opening Hours: [Mon-Sat] 10:00-20:00 / [Sun & Holidays] 10:00-19:00
Closed: Wednesdays
Access: 500 meters from Nishi-Nijūhatchōme Station
Official Blog: http://tsurucafe.jugem.jp/KAJITSU_CLUB in Tanukikoji Shopping Street
Peach & Hokkaido Soft Cream – ¥600KAJITSU_CLUB is located in the Beats Eats are on the basement floor of PARCO. You can order the ice cream of this peachy parfait as vanilla, yogurt or mixed. I went with mixed.
The fresh peaches are so good! The soft serve ice cream is nice and sweet and there’s also a sour yogurt flavour. The flavours might be simple but the quality is high.
▼KAJITSU_CLUB
Address: PARCO B2F, 3-Chome-3 Minami 1 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Opening Hours: 10:00-20:00
No Fixed Holidays
Access: Directly connected to the Ōdōri Station subway
Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kajitsu_club/SHIRAYUKI in Tanukikoji Shopping Street
Momomo – ¥600Available this August only, SHIRAYUKI’s new bottled drink is made of half frozen peach smoothie and half jelly and Hokkaido milk. This combination is match made in heaven! They come with a bag if you want to order for takeout too.
SHIRAYUKI
Address: Sapporo Aiseikan Bldg., 5-Chome Minami 1 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Opening Hours: 12:30-19:00
No Fixed Holidays
Access: 5-minutes on foot from Ōdōri Station
Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shirayuki.hokkaido/Pâtisserie LEEMO in Shinkotonicho
Whole Peach Parfait – ¥1,350 (*Only 20 available per day)
Pâtisserie LEEMO is known for its cute cakes and baked sweets, but right now they are selling this Whole Peach Parfait until the end of August.
You only need to feast your eyes on this dessert to know how refreshing the flavour is going to be. It even contains a jelly made from rosé wine, but the alcohol taste isn’t strong so can be enjoyed by anyone.
Depending on the stock of the bakery’s peaches sales of this dessert may end earlier. You can also make a reservation for one which I recommend, so don’t miss out!
▼Pâtisserie LEEMO
Address: 6-Chome-2-21 Shinkotoni 2 Jo, Kita Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Opening Hours: 10:00-19:00 (Parfait served at 12:00-18:00)
No Fixed Holidays
Access: Approximately 1km from Shinkawa Station
Official Website: http://patisserieleemo.jp/Cake and bake HACHI CAFE in Hachiken
Whole Peach – ¥720This luxurious-looking dessert is a whole peach filled with framboise jelly and custard making for an irresistible sour and sweet combination. The tart underneath is incredible too! Due to limited stock and the time it takes for the peaches to ripen there are days when the dessert isn’t serve. You can check the cafe’s official Instagram to find out if it’s on the menu that day or not.
▼Cake and bake HACHI CAFE
Address: Hachiken 3 Johigashi, Nishi Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Opening Hours: 11:00-17:00
Closed: Wednesdays & Thursdays
Access: 550m from Hachiken Station
Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hachicafe8/Did you enjoy this list? Make sure to wolf down all of the tempting peach desserts you can in Japan before summer ends.
Kei’s Instagram page is a wealth of recommendations for meals and desserts in Hokkaido, so be sure to check out their page if you’re planning to travel there.
Photo & Text: Kei (@607keih)
Translation: Joshua Kitosi-Isanga
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For this year’s Halloween season, The Capitol Hotel Tokyu in Tokyo has announced that it will serve up its Halloween Sweets Selection again this year at the hotel’s pastry boutique ORIGAMI located on floor B2F. The confectionery chefs have spun some spooky fun into this collection of 10 cute treats.
Frankenstein – ¥1,760 / Phantom – ¥1,760 / Cyclops – ¥1,760
The Phantom is a popular confection every year at the hotel, but this year he’s had two new freaky friends carved out for him: Frankenstein’s monster and a Cyclops. These white chocolate monsters are filled with chocolate-covered almonds, macadamia nuts and other hidden delights.
Witch Hat – ¥715
Dressed in a milk chocolate mousse is ganache and a rich and bitter crème brûlée made with bitter orange. It also contains a mandarin orange liqueur for deeper flavours. The mix of orange notes is refreshing on the palate.
Cross – ¥715
The orange and black Cross is a mousse cake made from pumpkin puree beneath which lies a cinnamon flavoured crème brûlée and coffee flavoured ganache. The bitter coffee elevates the exquisite sweetness of the pumpkin for a delicious combination.
Evil Eye – ¥715
Enter at your own risk with the grotesque-looking (but delicious tasting) Evil Eye mousse cake. It’s made with fragrant biscuit and caramel as well as blonde chocolate from France and inside is a smooth pear jelly.
There are lots of other Halloween treats besides these coming to the hotel too, so if you’re in Tokyo this October then be sure to stop by for a Happy Halloween.
*All listed prices include tax
Information
Halloween Sweets Selection
Running: October 1, 2019 – October 31, 2019
Location: ORIGAMI, The Capitol Hotel Tokyu Floor B2F
Full Sweets Line-Up: https://www.tokyuhotels.co.jp/capitol-h/restaurant/boutique/plan/50306/index.html
The Capitol Hotel Tokyu
Address: 2-10-3 Nagatacho, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo
Official Website: https://www.tokyuhotelsjapan.com/global/capitol-h/
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Japan’s Long Reigning Chocolate Brand Releases Limited Edition Flavour to Celebrate 40th Anniversary
Takenoko No Sato is a popular type of chocolate-covered small biscuit snack sold in Japan. This year, the mini bamboo shoot-shaped biscuit brand has been busy celebrating its 40th anniversary with the Anniversary Dessert Series. Lucky for us, that means the release of a second irresistible limited edition flavour. The new flavour, which is called Takenoko No Sato Strawberry Shortcake, will be released countrywide for a limited time only starting on August 20, 2019.
Takenoko No Sato was born in August 1979 as the younger brother of Kinoko No Yama; a miniature mushroom snack made of a crunchy biscuit stalk and chunky chocolate mushroom head which was released in September 1975. These long-selling chocolate brands have been a popular hit since the day they hit the shops and have won the hearts of everyone from children to adults.
Takenoko No Sato Strawberry Shortcake consists of a crunchy biscuit covered in a layer of tangy strawberry chocolate that tastes like fresh cream and sweet yet sour strawberries.
If you have never tried this iconic Japanese brand of chocolate before, you definitely need to try it to see what all the hype is about. Don’t forget to try the Strawberry Shortcake flavour which is only available for a limited time only.
Information
Takenoko No Sato Strawberry Shortcake (たけのこの里いちごのショートケーキ味)
RRP: ￥200 (before tax) /￥216 (after tax)
Release Date: August 20, 2019
To be released countrywide.
Meiji Co., Ltd. Official Website: https://www.meiji.co.jp/
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In this edition of The Café That You Want to Visit to See Someone, I visited Hatoya which is located in Asakusa Shin-Nakamise Arcade.
The streets of Tokyo’s historical district of Asakusa are packed to end with cafés. You can be spoiled for choice, but Hatoya stood out to me in particular as it’s an especially old café. Business there began back in 1927 but the actual building was built back in the Taisho period, meaning its history spans more than 90 years ago!
The outside appearance of the shop is smart and chic so it’s very easy to spot. I couldn’t tell by looking from the outside, but the inside is full of old decorations and odds and ends which make you feel the history of the café.
One reason why I wanted to visit this place so much is because I was drawn to their logo. It’s really retro-kawaii so I just couldn’t resist!
You should take some photos too if you visit.
It was time to head inside. It’s really comfy and cozy in there; the atmosphere was nice and relaxed.
Framed on the wall is a map of the Asakusa area during the Taisho era. Hatoya became famous back then because people could buy coffee for a mere 5 sen (a single sen is one-hundredth of a yen).
When business first began at Hatoya, because the café was opposite the stage door of a theatre, all of the famous actors and actresses would pop in. Some include famous Japanese comedian Roppa Furukawa and film actor Kiyoshi Atsumi who played Tora-san in the film series Otoko wa Tsurai yo.
I ordered the café’s popular hotcakes which cost ¥600. They have been making these same hotcakes since before the war.
They were nice and fluffy and had a deliciously gorgeous brown colour. The flavour was out of this world when the butter melted from the heat of the hotcakes and mixed together with the syrup.
The portion might look like a lot but they are fluffy and have a light flavour so can be finished with no problem.
And is the café’s signature milkshake (¥500).
It’s so refreshing that you can knock it back all in one go. It has a simple flavour but it tasted so good!
I also ordered the ¥600 cream soda, my favourite beverage.
I’ve been to many cafés, and have covered many in this series, but this is the first I have dined at with such a deep history. I found myself enthralled by the stories of the owner who has continued to treasure the café and maintained it all the same since it opened. I feel like I have learned about a world I never knew about. The next time I go to Hatoya with a friend I’ll be sure to let them in on its history. I encourage you to visit too!
Writer/Model: Ema Tanioku
Photographer: Haruka Yamamoto
Design: Yuko Abe (ASOBISYSTEM)Information
Hatoya
Address: 1-23-8 Asakusa, Taito Ward, Tokyo
Business Hours: 10:00-17:30
No Fixed Holidays
Tabelog Page: https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1311/A131102/13076130/
TALENT PROFILE
Ema Tanioku
“Emaeri” is the nickname for models Ema and Eri Tanioku, who are Aomoji fashion model twins. Ema and Eri Tanioku specialise in twin fashion coordination. Over the years their fanbase has increased due to their cute looks. Ema Tanioku spreads Harajuku culture within Japan as well as overseas and works as a Harajuku Tourism Ambassador. Starting off as a model, Ema has broadened her talent range from fashion magazines to TV, and from playing the lead role in dramas to movies.
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Hey, readers. It’s Midori again, from MMN’s editorial team.
Summertime in Harajuku means the cafes and ice cream shops start serving up some seriously kawaii and tasty ice creams. It’s always nice to grab a cone to enjoy while walking around shopping, but relaxing in a cafe to enjoy it is fun too♡
If the latter sounds like your kind of thing, then I’ve got a new recommendation for you. I visited STRAWBERRY MANIA recently, cafe located along Takeshita Street in Harajuku that specialises in strawberry desserts.
You’ll find it right above the 7-Eleven on Takeshita Street. Look for the strawberries!
There’s also a sign outside showing a few of the desserts. Go up the staircase right next to it and you’ll come to the cafe entrance.
No matter where you turn while you’re here, your eyes will be met with strawberries. It looks so cute♡
The shopfront showcase is shelved with lots of succulent strawberry treats. The chef whips up other desserts to order besides these too. Everything’s almost too cute to eat!
For the strawberry soft serve ice cream you can pick between three flavours: milk, strawberry or mixed. I couldn’t pick between them so I went for mixed.
The combination of the bright red strawberry ice cream and pure white milk ice cream makes for a beautiful colour contrast.
It’s also topped with a huge fresh strawberry.
I took no time at all in taking a spoonful. The strawberry ice cream has a really rich flavour. It’s sweet but has that sour kick too, like you’re eating a real strawberry. The milk ice cream has a milder sweetness and a real milky taste, the kind you’d imagine if it was sold at a farm with cows.
Everything is packed snug into the cone right down to the bottom, making it a filling treat. It can be ordered for takeout if you like, and if you do that you can get your ice cream straight away so you don’t have to wait for seats.
They serve other things besides soft serve too, like shaved ice and parfaits. There’s so much to choose from, I think you’ll be spoiled for choice! Be sure to visit if you’re in Harajuku.
Information
STRAWBERRY MANIA Harajuku
Address: ITO Bldg. 2F, 1-6-12 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
Opening Hours: 10:00-20:00 (Last Orders 19:30)
Official Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/strawberrymania_harajuku15/
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With just a small bit of ingenuity, turn everyday food into something cute using Kaori’s easy recipe! With a few simple ideas, an ordinary recipe magically transforms into a cute dish.
Today, I will show you the perfect recipe for making chocolate Minnie Mouse cakes using the Mickey Mouse Tezukuri Okazu Maker kit which you can buy on Belle Maison.
1. Ingredients
About 3-4 prep bowls
1 large egg
40g sugar
Oil or 10g melted unsalted butter
15ml milk
50g weak flour (sifted)
10g cocoa
5g baking powder
2.
①Crack the egg into a mixing bowl, add the sugar and whisk well.
②Add a drizzle of oil or melted butter and milk and whisk again.
③Add the sifted flour and stir in gently with a rubber spatula.
3.
Oil the silicone cake moulds and spoon in your mix.
4.
Steam on a high heat for about 10 minutes.
5.
Now it’s time to make Minnie’s ribbon. I got this ribbon mould from Daiso. Place it onto some baking paper and outline the shape with a pen. Fill the outline with red-coloured chocolate and leave to set in the fridge. Once it has completely set, add the polkadots.
6.
Once the cake has finished steaming, stick her onto a lollipop stick so it the cake be eaten like a lollipop, and fix the ribbon onto the top of Minnie’s head.
And she’s finished! It looks cute when you put a Mickey and Minnie one together side by side. You can make a lot of cute recipes using the Okazu Maker, so get your hands on one and try making your own!
Kaori invites you into her world of character-themed food dishes in her recipe series. Be sure to check out her Instagram where she has uploaded many pictures of her character dishes!
©️Disney
Profile
Kaori Kubota (@kaopan27)
I live in Hokkaido and I love to make character themed foods, desserts and pastries♡I want to see my family smile, so I enjoy putting in a bit of effort to make character foods and changing food into something cute♡
You can see more of my character foods and character bento boxes on my Instagram page→@kaopan27
Information
Silicone Tezukuri Okazu Maker (Mickey Mouse)
Price: ¥990 (Tax Included)
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Kyoto-based Uji tea store Itohkyuemon released its new Matcha Parfait Bars at its new branch in Gion Shijo on August 7.
The bars proved so popular that all 1,500 in stock sold out on the first day. The store is currently being piled with orders for future sales. There are five flavours to enjoy: the classic matcha parfait flavour as well as cherry blossom, tropical, mont blanc, and strawberry.
Matcha Parfait Bar – Matcha
The matcha flavoured bar retains the original rich flavour of the Uji matcha, which has been passed down since the Muromachi period, and combines it with a delicious assortment of parfait toppings including raw matcha chocolate, mini daifuku, coarse sweet red bean paste, and more.
Matcha Parfait Bar – Sakura (Cherry Blossom)
For another traditional Japanese twist there is the springtime sakura parfait bar which is made with cherry blossom pink rice flour dumplings and ice cream. It’s also topped with cherry blossom cream and salted cherry blossom petals for a cute finish.
Matcha Parfait Bar – Tropical
Tropical flavours like pineapple and mango blend together in this bar which is drizzled in a sweet, sour and refreshing tropical sauce. Topped with fresh tropical fruits, this is the ultimate summertime luxury.
Matcha Parfait Bar – Mont Blanc
This bar incorporates a sense of autumn with its mix of candied chestnut, astringent chestnut skin, and melt-in-the-mouth mont blanc cream.
Matcha Parfait Bar – Strawberry
Strawberry lovers will delight in the handmade strawberry sauce and strawberry meringue of this bar. The meringue elevates the sumptuous flavours of the parfait even more, including the fresh strawberry, raspberry and blueberry toppings which provide a sweet and sour kick.
Which of these Matcha Parfait Bars do you want to try the most?
Information
Matcha Parfait Bars
Released: July 10, 2019 (On August 7, 2019 at the Gion Shijo branch)
Prices
Matcha Parfait Bar – Matcha: ¥540 (Tax Included)
Matcha Parfait Bar – Sakura (Cherry Blossom): ¥590 (Tax Included)
Matcha Parfait Bar – Tropical: ¥590 (Tax Included)
Matcha Parfait Bar – Mont Blanc: ¥590 (Tax Included)
Matcha Parfait Bar – Strawberry: ¥640 (Tax Included)
Participating Branches: Uji Honten, JR Uji Station, Gion Shijo, Byodoin, Kyoto Station, and online shop
Online Shop Product Page: https://www.itohkyuemon.co.jp/site/parfait-bar/index.html
