To promote support of the Brave Blossoms―Japan’s National Rugby Union Team (JNRU)―Mike Popcorn and Cheetos are teaming up with them to release limited edition packaged products on August 26.
Mike Popcorn Japan National Rugby Team Salted Sakura Shrimp – ¥125 (Before Tax)
The JNRU are known for their trademark cherry blossom emblem and red and white striped uniforms, so Mike Popcorn are releasing salted sakura shrimp flavour popcorn with these very motifs.
Cheetos Japan National Rugby Team Pollock Roe Cheese – ¥125 (Before Tax)
Cheetos are a global brand sold in over 40 countries worldwide. This exclusive flavour forms a tight scrum of ingredients, perfectly combining rich cheese and delicious Pollock roe into a crunchy snack. Like with Mike Popcorn, Cheetos have created a beautiful packaging with cherry blossom flowers as well as Chester Cheetah showing his support by donning the iconic jersey.
Which pack do you want to try most to show your support for Japan in the Rugby World Cup?
©JRFU
Information
Mike Popcorn Japan National Rugby Team Salted Sakura Shrimp
Price: ¥125 (Before Tax)
Release Date: August 26, 2019
Available: Everywhere in Japan
Mike Popcorn Official Website: http://www.fritolay.co.jp/ourbrands/mike/
Cheetos Japan National Rugby Team Pollock Roe Cheese
Price: ¥125 (Before Tax)
Release Date: August 26, 2019
Available: Everywhere in Japan
Cheetos Official Website: http://www.fritolay.co.jp/ourbrands/cheetos/
RECOMMENDED ENTRIES
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Whether you’re exploring Japan with your adult pals or on a family holiday with young kids, Pokémon fans from all generations cannot deny that treating yourself to Pokémon ice cream is the golden razz you need in this heat.
From August 1 to 30, 2019, Baskin-Robbins will run a collaboration scheme with Pokémon to celebrate the release of the new Pokémon movie Mewtwo Strikes Back: Evolution. This involves the release of BR’s first ever Pokémon-themed ice creams.
Pikachu Thunderbolt: Fruit Mix (price for single scoop, regular size: ￥390 after tax) *prices may vary,
Mewtwo Strikes Back: Evolution was released earlier this summer and there is no better opportunity to maximise your Pokémon experience than to indulge in the luxurious taste of Baskin-Robbins ice cream that has been combined with your favourite Pokémon with a beauty that no Pokémon fusion generator is possible of producing!
Pokémon Double Cup
Pikachu has arrived at Baskin Robins in the form of a sorbet, which is appropriately coloured yellow. The fruity sorbet flavours include pineapple, yellow peach, banana, apple and orange. This is decorated with bright red studs of delicious popping candy which look like Pikachu’s cheeks. This is the first ever Pikachu sorbet to ever be sold at Baskin-Robbins.
BR also introduced a promotion scheme where those who purchase a Small Double-size ice cream (￥490 after tax) can upgrade it to a Regular Double size for just an extra ￥100. Your ice cream will be served in a Pokémon-themed cup and you can even pick your favourite cup design out of the three available to maximise your ice cream experience.
Customers who order the Double Cup will receive a Pikachu spoon for each cup ordered. There are three different Pokémon spoon designs. Which one will you get? Hurry over to your nearest Baskin-Robbins to collect them all!
Pokémon Variety Pack
Small 6 pack: ￥1,550 Small 12 pack : ￥2,990 Regular six pack: ￥2,130 Regular 12 pack: ￥4,140 *All prices tax included and are subject to change.
Want them all? The variety pack is perfect for those of you who want a selection to eat while on the go. The Pokémon-themed box is filled with rainbows of colours and all your favourite Pokémon, however, it is only available for a limited time. When you and your friends need a break from catching Pokémon, this is the perfect way to get refreshed.
Finally, don’t miss out on BR’s legendary Pikachu and Eevee ice cream cakes. The Pikachu Cake features BR’s popular “Popping Shower” ice cream, which is a fusion of white chocolate and popping candy. This is wrapped in yellow strawberry-flavoured whipped cream. Pikachu’s rounded chocolate eyes and red cheeks are enough to charm you.
Pokémon Ice Cream Cake (Pikachu/ Eevee): ￥3,300 after tax *prices may vary, a variety of sizes are available
The Eevee Cake will stare at you with cute chocolate eyes. Eevee is wrapped in milk chocolate whipped cream and is wearing a caramel ribbon. Complete your cakes by placing the ears on by yourself.
Maximise your Pokémon experience by watching the new Pokémon movie and indulging in Baskin-Robbin’s legendary Pokémon ice creams.
©Nintendo・Creatures・GAME FREAK・TV Tokyo・ShoPro・JR Kikaku ©Pokémon ©2019 ピカチュウプロジェクト
Information
Baskin-Robbins Pokémon-themed Ice Creams
Avaialble: August 1 ー 30, 2019
Official Website: https://www.31ice.co.jp/contents/topics/190731_01.html
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On July 16 this year, a new branch of Moomin Stand―a drinks shop inspired by the Finnish children’s books The Moomins―opened in Asakusa, one of the most popular tourist spots in Tokyo.
Moomin Stand serves original fruity beverages, drinks with rich milk bases and more, all with chewy tapioca-like pearls.
Moonmin Stand is produced by Moomin Café. The first branch opened in Kichijoji and proved popular with women in their 20s and 30s, high school and university students, and families with children. It continues to enjoy flurries of customers; you’re guaranteed to be lining up on weekends.
Strawberry Daifuku Milk – ¥700 (Before Tax)
The newly-released Strawberry Daifuku Milk drink is exclusive to the Asakusa branch. Its mix of sweet and sour strawberry flavour with the chewy pearls gives a texture reminiscent to daifuku, a traditional Japanese confection which takes mochi and stuffs it with a sweet filling. The drink has a delicious white bean paste base and is topped off with fresh pieces of strawberry.
The café interior is decorated with beautiful illustrations from The Moomins making for plenty of great photo opportunities. There is also a bar to lean on as well as spaces on the wall to rest your back on to relax with your drink after walking around.
All drinks also come with a cute Hattifattener straw toy that bites onto straws and pens which you can take home with you.
After you’ve taken a stroll around Asakusa and seen the Kaminari gate, Nakamise Shopping Street and Sensō-ji temple, why not stop off at Moonmin Stand for refreshments?
Information
Moomin Stand Asakusa
Address: 1-1-12 Asakusa, Taito Ward, Tokyo
Opening Hours: 11:00-19:00
Moomin Stand Branch List: http://www.benelic.com/moomin_cafe/moominstand/Stawberry Daifuku Milk (Cold)
Price: ¥700 (Before Tax)
Released: July 16, 2019
*Comes with Hattifattener straw toy -
The real heat of summer has finally hit us. As a result, it is getting harder to resist those delicious ice creams in the convenience store that are so easy to get hold of. Convenience stores are constantly refreshing their frozen dessert flavours and it is just too hard to decide which one to go for.
Wondering what tastes good? Don’t break a sweat. Dessert-eating professional Yukko is here to help. Check out her Instagram which has plenty of information on the most irresistible frozen desserts at convenience stores.
CREAM CHEESE MACARON ICE
Seven Eleven sells a macaron ice cream sandwich series which is massively popular every year. You just have to head there now to try the Kiri® cream cheese filling macarons which are collaboration-limited!
Just by looking at the refreshing colour of the macaron is enough to splash life back into your parched body. Sinking your teeth into the crispy macaron sure is fun.
The luxurious ice cream filling is made using 100% Kiri® cream cheese. The ice cream covers a juicy core of passion orange sauce that is thick like treacle. Its sharp, citrusy flavour is bound to instantly revitalise you. The rich cream cheese makes for the perfect balance.
▼ CREAM CHEESE MACARON ICE
Price: ￥257 (after tax)
Available at: Most Seven Elevens countrywide (excluding Okinawa)Strawberries & Condensed Milk Shaved Ice
This is part of Seven Eleven’s flavoured ice series.
When you open it, you will be instantly hit by the revitilizing red colour of the strawberries. The strawberry sauce is sweet yet sour and the ice is crunchy. Allow it a bit of time to melt first and the texture will turn syrupy.
The sweet and sour strawberry sauce is a perfect match with the condensed milk flavoured ice, which is both slightly sweet and refreshing. This is a flavour that adults will love just as much as children.
▼ Strawberries & Condensed Milk Shaved Ice
Price: ￥149 (after tax)
Available at: Convenience Store: Most Seven Elevens countrywide.White Peach Shaved Ice with Peach Pieces
This is yet another dessert from Seven Eleven’s ice Series, and this one is bursting with peachy goodness! Despite being just ￥300, it is full of flavour.
Open the lid and you will discover that it is full of delicious fruity pieces of white peach.
Starting from the top, there are large pieces of peach followed by white peach jelly, white peach shaved ice and then white peach sauce. The peach will immediately melt in your mouth the moment you take a bite. Its juiciness will spread all over your tongue and you will be enlightened with the true refreshing taste of summer.
White Peach Shaved Ice with Peach Pieces
Price: ￥300 (after tax)
Available at: Seven ElevenEssel Super Cup Mango
Having heard all the stories about just how delicious this ice cream is, I just had to try it for myself.
There are four layers to this ice cream. The moment you open the lid, the tropical fruity mango sauce layer will be enough to revitalize you. Once you make it through the mango sauce which is enriched with mango fruit pieces, you will make it to the layer of tofu ice cream. Dig a little deeper and you will arrive at a layer of passion fruit sauce.
If you reach the very bottom, you will hit the mango-flavoured ice cream. If you wait a little while for the ice cream to melt before digging your spoon in, you will be able to truly appreciate the rich-flavoured mango. This ice cream even has a special ingredient; mango pulp. This mango pulp enhances the flavour in an extraordinary way. The discovery of this new flavour will fascinate you to no end. The passion fruit sauce at the bottom has an element of crunchiness to it that resembles sorbet. The mango and mango pulp is an exquisite accent to the flavour, making it deliciously moreish as well as refreshing.
▼Essel Super Cup Mango
Price: ￥238 (after tax)
Available at: Convenience stores and supermarkets across the country.All these convenience store ice creams are just too delicious to miss out on. There are many frozen desserts that will always be available, however, those listed above won’t always be around, so try them while you can!
Mogu Mogu Yukko introduces lots of desserts and sweets that are easily found in convenience stores and supermarkets on her Instagram so please check out her other posts.
Writer and Photographer: Mogu Mogu Yukko
RELATED ENTRIES
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Early November marks the opening of the autumn cherry blossoms in Obaracho, Toyota. By the time mid-November rolls around, close to 10,000 shikizakura cherry blossoms bloom a pale pink until the end of the month.
The Yoshino cherry bears its pink petals in springtime, but the shikizakura blossoms twice a year: first in spring, then in autumn. They are considered one of the most beautiful flowers of autumn, especially when they bloom against the gorgeous and vibrant red maple leaves. The Obara Shikizakura Matsuri began on November 1, and right now, you can witness this spectacle for yourself.
The shikizakura trees planted in Obara have been there since Kansei era (1789-1801). With the helping hand of locals, the trees have become one of Japan’s most famous shikizakura spots. They were designated as Chiku (District) Trees in 1978 and can be seen throughout the entire district. Some of the trees are over 100 years old and as such registered as Natural Monuments of Aichi prefecture.
This is a spot we highly recommend visiting when travelling to Aichi.
▼Obara Shikizakura Cherry Blossoms
Peak Blossom Time: From Mid-November
Locations:
441-1 Johei, Obaracho, Toyota, Aichi (Obara Fureai Park)
Senmichi, Toyota, Aichi (Senmi Shikizakura no Sato)
Access: Take the Toyota Oiden Bus bound for Kaminigi (上仁木行き) and get off at Obaraokusa (小原大草) or Kaminigi (上仁木)
Details: http://www.kankou-obara.toyota.aichi.jp/
▼Obara Shikizakura Matsuri
Running: November 1, 2019 – November 30, 2019
Locations: Senmi Shikizakura no Sato, Obara Fureai Park, and elsewhere in the region
Notes: The Kururin Bus can be boarded for free on weekends and public holidays while the festival is on
Official Website: https://www.aichi-now.jp/spots/detail/132/
The Korankei Maple Festival is also taking place this month where you can witness around 40,000 maple trees bearing their gorgeous autumn foliage.
The trees are being lit up every night for the month of November. Watch the sun set before the illuminations are turned on, creating an enchanting atmosphere with the warm, radiating lights against the night sky.
▼Maple Trees
Peak Blossom Time: From Mid-November
Location: Iimori Asukecho, Toyota, Aichi
Access: Ride the Meitetsu Mikawa Line to Toyotashi Station, change onto Meitetsu Bus, and alight at Korankei (香嵐渓)
Official Website: http://asuke.info/korankei/
▼64th Korankei Maple Festival
Running: November 1, 2019 – November 30, 2019
Location: Around Iimori Asukecho, Toyota, Aichi
Light-Up: Sunset to 21:00
Access: 20 minutes from Sarugata Green Road Interchange / 20 minutes from Toyota-Kanpachi Interchange
Official Website: http://asuke.info/event/nov/entry-705.html
Witness two of Japan’s most celebrates treesーthe cherry blossom and the mapleーflower together in one place in Aichi.
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The Gion branch of Saryo Tsujiri released its new dessert “Hana no Utage” (Flower Banquet) on April 1.
Price: ¥1,451 (Tax Included) / Available: April 1, 2019 – April 30, 2019
This parfait breathes springtime with its blooming cherry blossom ice cream, fluffy cherry blossom cream, cherry blossom cookie, matcha cookie and more.
If you’re in Kyoto this spring then treat yourself to this refreshing parfait.
Information
Saryo Tsujiri Gion Honten
Address: Saryo Tsujiri Gion Honten Floors 2F & 3F, 573-3 Gionmachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 10:00-22:00 (Last Orders – Weekdays 21:00 / Weekends 20:30)
No Fixed Holidays.TEL: 075-561-2257
Official Website: http://www.giontsujiri.co.jp/saryo/store/kyoto_gion/
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Taking place in the city of Hirosaki in western Aomori Prefecture, this year’s Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival will run from April 20 to May 6.
This annual festival is the biggest in Hirosaki bringing in over 2 million people every year. Visitors will once again to be treated to a visual spectacle of 2,600 cherry blossom trees of 52 different species blooming their beautiful pink flowers in Hirosaki Park.
Various events and activities will take place throughout the festival such as boat rides, a tour carried out by the one of the gardeners, and more.
Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Celebratory Lantern Parade
The festival will hold a parade on May 3―the date on which the first flower-viewing party event in Hirosaki was first carried out. It will ring in the start of Japan’s new era following Emperor Akihito’s abdication with a lantern parade
Running: May 3 from 10:00am
Where: From Hirosaki Park Otemon Gate to Inner East Gate
Flower-Viewing Party in Traditional Japanese Dress
This flower-viewing party was so popular last year that it is making a return in 2019. Dress up in traditional Japanese clothing and receive a special ticket to enter the Hirosaki Castle botanical gardens for free.
Running: April 20, 2019 – May 6, 2019
Ticket Location: Ninomaru / Shinomaru Information Centre
Hirosaki Park Boat Ride
Enjoy the cherry blossoms from a different angle with a boat ride along the moat.
Running: April 20, 2019 – May 6, 2019
Time: 9:00-17:00 (Last rides at 16:30) *Subject to change depending on weather and number of boarders
Special Cherry Blossom Tour
The park’s gardeners will carry out a tour of the cherry blossoms and provide interesting explanations.
Running: April 30, 2019 & May 2, 2019
Time: From 13:30 (90 minute tour)
No. of People: 40 people per tour (first-come, first-served)
Price: Free
Flower Carpet
During the cherry blossom’s full bloom season thousands of petals will fall into the moat, creating a gorgeous pink carpet on the water surface. This will make for some great photographs.
Information
Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival
Running: April 20, 2019 – May 6, 2019
Location: Hirosaki Park (1 Shimoshiroganechō, Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture)
Opening Hours
Honmaru/Kita no Kuruwa Area – 7:00-21:00 (9:00-17:00 from April 20 to 22 and May 6)
Botanical Garden – 9:00-18:00
Illuminations – Sunset until 23:00 (subject to change)
*Some locations in the park will charge a fee. This includes the Honmaru/Kita no Kuruwa Area. It costs ¥310 for adults and ¥100 for children.
Website: https://www.hirosaki-kanko.or.jp/web/edit.html?id=cat02_spring_sakura
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Twitter Japan is now holding a campaign entitled Sakura Saku (#サクラサク) until April 30, 2019. The campaign title means “blooming cherry blossoms” and is a way to get more people talking about the country’s springtime cherry blossoms online.
There are 3 ways to participate and it’s super easy to get involved.
1. Bloom cherry blossoms across Twitter feeds with hashtags (Running: Until April 30)
Twitter has implemented a feature so when certain hashtags are posted a cherry blossom flower appears after it.
These hashtags are as follows: #さくら ＃花見 #はなみ #お花見 #桜 #おはなみ #sakura #開花 #開花宣言 #咲いた #さくらの日 #サクラ #夜桜 #満開 #cherryblossom #サクラサク
Additionally, if you hit “Like” on a Tweet that has one of these hashtags in it the heart symbol becomes a cherry blossom.
2. Cardcaptor Sakura Collaboration (Running: March 27 – April 30)
These cherry blossom marks also work with the hashtag #木之本桜 which is Sakura Kinomoto’s name in Japanese, the protagonist of Cardcaptor Sakura.
27 lucky people have the chance to win a special merchandise set made in collaboration with Twitter and the series by simply retweeting the above Tweet.
3. Sakura for Good Project (Running: Until April 30)
Twitter will donate to Sakura Line 311, a non-profit orgranisation that plants cherry blossoms, depending on how many times the hashtag #桜 is Tweeted including Retweets. Anybody can join this campaign and it goes towards a good cause.
If you have a Twitter account then be sure to get involved.
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We previously covered the top cherry blossom events to enjoy in Japan’s Kanto region for this year’s hanami. If you’re travelling to the Kansai region however―which includes Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe and many others―then we’ve got you covered for that too. Here are our Top 3 picks for cherry blossom events you should visit this flower-viewing spring season in Kansai.
Kyoto Botanical Garden – Sakura Light-Up 2019
Kyoto Botanical Garden’s Sakura Light-Up 2019 will run from March 25 to April 7 followed by the Sakura Sanpo cherry blossom strolling event from April 19 to 21. The garden boasts a long cherry blossom season. In many famous cherry blossom spots in Japan the Yoshino cherry trees bloom for one week at the beginning of April, but at Kyoto Botanical Garden they sprout early in mid-March and stay until the end of April, meaning you can enjoy the beautiful pink hues for even longer.
Full Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/163353
■Information
Kyoto Botanical Garden
Address: Shimogamo Hangicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto
Price: General ¥200 / High School Students ¥150 / Junior High School Students and below – Free / 70+ Years and Disabled – Free
TEL: 075-701-0141Website: http://www.pref.kyoto.jp/plant/
Sakura Light-Up 2019
Running: March 25, 2019 – April 7, 201
Time: After Sunset (Around 6:30PM) to 9:00PM (Last Entries: 8:00PM)
Price: The price of entry only
*The park hours are extended from the usual 5:00PM closing time to 9:00PM
Sakura Sanpo
2019/4/19 @ 1:00PM-1:45PM
2019/4/20 @ 1:00PM-1:45PM, 5:00PM-5:45PM
2019/4/21 @ 5:00PM-5:45PM
Price: The price of entry only*Due to opening hour extensions form April 8 to May 19 the usual 5:00PM closure time will extend to 6:30PM (Last Entries: 6:00PM)
*Those wishing to participate at either 1:00PM or 5:00PM must meet in front of the Shokubutsuen Kaikan.
CAFETEL Kyoto Sanjo for Ladies – SAKURA ROOM
CAFETEL Kyoto Sanjo for Ladies is a female-oriented café and hostel that is now taking bookings for its SAKURA ROOM. This beautiful room radiates a spring vibe with its light coloured ribbon curtains, a cherry blossom fragrance that permeates the room, pretty cherry blossom flower crowns and more. There are plenty of places to snap some Instagrammable pictures. From outside the window guests can the scenery of the city of Kamogawa so they can enjoy hanami from their room!
■Information
CAFETEL Kyoto Sanjo for Ladies – SAKURA ROOM
Running: March 10, 2019 – April 30, 2019
No. of Rooms: 1 (accommodates 3 people)
Price: From ¥15,000 (*Tax & service charge included. Separate accommodation tax fee applies. Price will vary depending on the day of booking.)
CAFETEL Kyoto Sanjo for Ladies
Address: 173 Shingokencho, Higashiyama, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
Website: https://cafetel.jp/
Osaka Hirakata Park – Enjoy 300 Cherry Trees桜300本が楽しめる 大阪ひらかたパーク
From the end of March to the beginning of April, sakura will bloom at Hirakata amusement park. There are approximately 300 sakura trees and eight varieties of tree including Yoshino cherry blossoms. Amongst the park attractions is the “Skywalker”; a giant ferris wheel that overlooks the park. The path to the ride is hilly and lined with sakura trees, so during full bloom, the path is completely covered in a bed of pink petals. Enjoy the cherry blossoms while riding the attractions!
Full Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/186019
■Information
Hirakata Park
Address: 1-1 Hirakatakōenchō, Hirakata, Osaka
Opening HoursWeekdays: 10:00-17:00
Weekends & Holidays: [March 25 – April 5] 10:00-18:00 / [April 27 – May 6] 10:00-19:00
*Closed Wednesdays from March 13 to June 26 (except March 27, April 3 and May 1)
Entry Price: General (Junior High School and above) ¥1,400 / Children (2-Year-Olds to Elementary School) ¥800
Website: http://www.hirakatapark.co.jp/
Did you enjoy this list? Be sure to see as many cherry blossom spots as you can when in Japan.
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Edo Wonderland is a cultural theme park in Nikko, Tochigi that recreates what life was like back in the Edo period. The park is currently putting efforts in to provide a new kind of food experience to guests. Since last year, with the help of Rei Fuyuki―a food researcher knowledgeable in Edo cuisine―the park has been serving authentic Edo style dishes inspired by the four seasons.
This spring, Edo Wonderland is set to host a new event that will offer people a chance to experience an Edo hanami. They will tuck into food from the Edo period while viewing the cherry blossoms.
Guests will be able to enjoy hanami in a variety of different ways, be it under the blue sky, on the side of a moat with a bento in hand, in the restaurant with a luxurious hanami-inspired meal and sake, and more.
The EDO-SATOYAMA Project is an initiative that aims to restore the original scenery of Edo. As part of the project, British-born Japanese writer and environmentalist C. W. Nicol planted cherry trees with children from local nurseries last year. He is set to participate in this year’s Edo hanami too where he will fertilise and water plants with the children to help pass on the importance of taking care of the beautiful undeveloped woodlands.
Change into traditional Japanese dress and become a person of Edo to enjoy a unique Edo flower-viewing experience.
Information
Edo Wonderland Saijiki Haru no Utage ~Edo no Hanami~
Running: April 4, 2019 – April 14, 2019 (*Select events running on weekends only)
Location: Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura (Address: 470-2 Karakura, Nikko-shi, Tochigi Prefecture)
Official Website: http://edowonderland.net/ -
From national holiday Thursday 21st March to Sunday 14th April, world heritage Nijō Castle (Kyoto) is holding a cherry blossom festival to celebrate its 25th anniversary called “Seikaiisan tōroku 25 shūnenkinen Nijōjō Sakuramatsuri 2019”. Last spring, approximately 304,594 people visited the castle during the day and during the night illumination event, making Nijō castle one of the most popular places in Kyoto to watch cherry blossoms.
Nijō castle is home to 300 cherry blossom trees. There are approximately 50 different varieties of cherry blossoms and some bloom earlier and later than others. Kanhi-zakura tend to bloom first, followed by Somei Yoshino, Yamazakura, Segakuzakura and Satozakura, meaning that you have approximately one month to enjoy cherry blossoms!
For two years now, the night Sakura festival includes projection mapping on the castle gates, illumination on the rapeseed blossoms, and much more! This time the festival space will be the largest it’s ever been. This has been powered up to become an even more enjoyable event.
Gate projection mapping
Blue butterflies form on the gate, turn into gold and dance into the castle as if they are bringing spring into Nijō castle.
Illumination of thin Sakura-lined paths and Rapeseed Sakura
This will be the first time that the small path that passes out of the park of Sakura will also be illuminated. The area before the thin pathway is a great photo spot that visitors can enjoy! This is where the illuminated rapeseed blossoms will be.
Seiryu garden illumination
At Seiryu garden, the illumination suddenly moves when you shine your smartphone light on it, and when you sit on a bench, the trees in front of you will suddenly light up ー this illumination is an interactive experience affected by the movements of the visitors!
There are also a variety of other special events such as a live flower arranging performance and a traditional arts performance called “Denraku”. This is a festival that combines traditional and digital art and it is a flower viewing experience unique to Nijō Castle.
Information
Nijō castle Sakura Matsuri 2019
Opening hours: National holiday Thursday 21/03 ー Sunday 14/04/2019
Opening hours: Lunch: 8:45 ー 17:00（Last entry: 16:00）, Night: 18:00 ー 21:30（Last entry: 21:00）
Location: Nijō castle (541 Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto)Website: https://www.city.kyoto.lg.jp/bunshi/page/0000242750.html
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Gotenyama Sakura Matsuri 2019 w ill take place at Gotenyama Trust City in Shinagawa, Tokyo from March 29 to 31.
Gotenyama Trust City is a 7-minute walk from the busy district of Gotanda in Shinagawa. Despite being at the heart of the city, it is home to a large and lush green park. The site has been a famous site for viewing the cherry blossoms in spring since the Edo period. It’s also steeped in Edo culture and history as a place where the shogun carried out falconry, where tea parties were held, and more.
A new era of Japan is set to begin at the end of April when Emperor Akihibo abdicates. The festival will be lined with colourful lanterns with each era of Japan written on them from Edo to Heisei.
Each day will be dedicated to the last cherry blossoms of the Heisei era. The entire day will be used, with the cherry trees being lit up with beautiful illuminations in the evening.
Gotenyama will also be host to a range of art displays and showcases using the latest technology. One of these will be the above-pictured “Negai no Sakura” (Wishing Cherry Blossoms) which will be placed at the office entrance. It will invite the people working in the Gotenyama area, locals and everyone else to contribute their wishes. When the festival finishes it will be dedicated to Shinagawa Shrine.
There will also be a tea ceremony workshop inside a tearoom, a chance to learn more about the history of Gotenyama and more.
Over 30 exciting events and activities are planned for this year’s festival, so don’t miss out.
Information
Gotenyama Sakura Matsuri 2019
Location: Gotenyama Trust City and elsewhere locally
Address: 4-7-35 Kita-Shinagawa, Shinagawa Ward, Tokyo (Gotenyama Trust City)
Access: 10-minutes on foot from Shinagawa Station via the JR Line or 5-minute via the free bus / 5-minutes on foot from Kitashinagawa Station via the Keikyū Main Line
Time/Date
Main Event: March 29, 2019 – March 31, 2019 (11:00-20:00)
Illuminations: March 18, 2019 – April 7, 2019 (17:00-23:00)
Festival Website: http://www.trustcity-g.com/access
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The cherry blossoms are slowly blooming flower by flower in the Kanto region of Japan―which encompasses the Greater Tokyo Area and six other prefectures.
What kind of hanami, or “flower blooming” season can we expect to enjoy this year? We have compiled a list of six must-attend events celebrating Japan’s beautiful cherry blossoms of the Kanto region this year.
Yozakura Jewel Illuminations at Yomiuri Land
Japanese amusement park Yomiuri Land is set to hold its first ever Yozakura Jewel Illumination event from March 21 to April 7. It will combine evening-time cherry blossoms with a range of different gorgeous illuminations. The 180-meter long Sakura Promenade will be lined with bright lights in the evening, creating a memorable and must-see display. The Ferris wheel, too, will be lit up with colourful lights in the image of cherry blossoms, creating a romantic spectacle.
Full Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/182255
■Information
Yozakura Jewel Illuminations
Running: March 21, 2019 – APril 7, 2019
Time: 16:00-20:00
Price: General Night Pass: ¥2,400 / 3-12 Year Olds & Seniors (65+): ¥1,600
Night Entry: General: ¥1,400 / Junior High School Students: & Seniors (65+) ¥600 / Elementary School Students: ¥300
*Free for those below elementary school age.
*Guests are not allowed to take cans, bottles or alcohol into the park. They can however take bento boxes.
Yomiuri Land
Address: 4015-1 Yanokuchi, Inagi, Tokyo
Website: http://www.yomiuriland.com/jewellumination/
Tenkuu no Ohanami 2019 at Roppongi Hills Observation Deck
The Tokyo City View Observation Deck at Roppongi Hills is holding a hanami event this spring titled Tenkuu no Ohanami 2019 (“Flower Viewing From the Sky 2019”) which will run from March 15 to April 7. From the observation deck you can glimpse the cherry blossoms dotted around some of Tokyo’s most famous sites and landmarks including Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree, Yoyogi Park, Shinjuku Gyoen and elsewhere, each of which will be a sight to behold from up high in the sky.
Full Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/182366
■Information
Roppongi Hills Observation Deck Tokyo City View
Location: Mori Tower Floor 52F / Sky Deck (6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato Ward, Tokyo
Price: Adult ¥1,800 / University & High School Student ¥1,200 / 4-13 Year Olds ¥600 / Seniors (65+ Years) ¥1,500
Sky Deck Ticket: ¥500 (¥300 for those aged 4-12)
Opening Hours:
Weekdays & Holidays – 10:00-23:00 (Last Entries 22:30)
Friday, Saturday & Day Before Holidays – 10:00-01:00 (Last Entries at Midnight)
Sky Deck – 11:00-20:00 (Last Entries 19:30)
Official Website: https://tcv.roppongihills.com/en/index.html
Kimono Campaign – Free Entry to Sky Deck
Running: April 5, 2019 – April 7, 2019
Details: Those who visit dressed in a kimono can enter the Sky Deck for free (normally ¥500).
*However, you still must have paid entry to the observation deck (prices listed above).
Sakura Matsuri 2019 at Ark Hills
Sakura Matusri 2019 will run from April 5 to 7 at Ark Hills in Tokyo. The 1km long tunnel of cherry trees―a symbol and landmark of the surrounding area―will decorated with beautiful illuminations. The bridge that runs from Ark Hills’s south tower to the main building is a secret hanami spot that overlooks the row of trees that run up Spain-zaka Slope. This means you can enjoy the flowers from different angles, whether down below and up close or up high overhead.
■Information
Ark Hills Sakura Matsuri 2019
Running: April 5, 2019 – April 7, 2019
Address: 1-12-32 Akasaka, Minato Ward, Tokyo
Official Website: https://www.arkhills.com/
Tokyo Disney Resort’s® Kawazu-zakura
Make sure to stop by Minnie’s House in Tokyo Disneyland’s® Toon Town which is home to a Kawazu-zakura tree. These trees typically bloom faster than Yoshino cherry trees and are known for their deep pink colour. The pink house and pink cherry blossoms are such a cute match! A range of cherry blossom- and spring-themed items will also be sold to be enjoyed together with the hanami season.
Full Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/180825
Rickshawing Through the Meguro River Cherry Blossoms With Hotel Gajoen Tokyo
For a three-day limited period from March 29 to 31, you can thoroughly enjoy Japanese hospitality as Hotel Gajoen Tokyo will be running a rickshaw service around Meguro River for guests to enjoy the cherry blossoms. When booking a room at the hotel you can select a plan that includes this rickshaw ride around Tokyo’s foremost-leading cherry blossom viewing hot spot for 30 minutes. During the ride, guests can enjoy the spring breeze as they sweep around the cherry blossom trees of Meguro River. The plan includes a springtime cherry blossom menu and more, so if you’re looking for luxury then look no further!
Full Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/173973
■Information
Rickshaw Plan (Japanese Name: 人力車で巡る目黒川の観桜小旅行)
Running: March 29, 2019 – March 31, 2019
Food: Breakfast included. The 8th floor Executive Lounge serves a buffet-style breakfast featuring both western and Japanese food. Entry permitted between 7:00-10:30
Plan Price: From ¥116,000 – 1 night, 1 room (2 Guests / Breakfast Included) *Separate accommodation fee and tax charged.
The rickshaw accommodation plan includes free entry to the “Spring, sakura, sakuya” exhibition at Hyakudan Stairs Art Museum. To book a rickshaw ride, please choose a 30-minute time slot between 11:00 and 17:00. The last opportunity to ride will be 16:30.
Book your special accommodation plan here: https://www.hotelgajoen-tokyo.com/stay
Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest Cherry Blossom Festival
The Lake Sagami Cherry Blossom Festival will be held at Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest in Kanagawa Prefecture from March 21, 2019. Just an hour’s distance from Tokyo, this hanami festival is a chance to enjoy 2,500 cherry trees―the biggest collection in the Kanto region―from many different angles. Board the “Pair Lift” and glide over the gorgeous cherry blossom trees for a skybound hanami experience. Soar even higher in a hot-air balloon and see the pink landscape and evening illuminations.
Full Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/?p=183232
■Information
Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest Cherry Blossom Festival
Address: 1634 Wakayanagi, Midori Ward, Sagamihara, Kanagawa Prefecture
Running: March 21, 2019 – April 21, 2019 (Closed April 11 & 18)
*Evening illuminations from March 21 to April 7.Opening Hours
Until April 7 – 9:00-21:00
From April 8 – Weekdays 10:00-16:00 / Weekends & Holidays 9:00-17:00
Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest Daytime Entry Prices (10:00-16:00)
Entry: Adults ¥1,700 / Children, Seniors & Pets (Dogs) ¥1,000
Free Pass: Adults ¥3,900 / Children, Seniors & Pets (Dogs) ¥3,100 AdultsLake Sagami Pleasure Forest Evening Entry Prices (16:00-21:00) *Last entries 20:30
Entry: Adults & Seniors ¥1,000 / Children & Pets (Dogs) ¥700TEL: 0570-037-353 (Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest)
Website: http://www.sagamiko-resort.jp/Hot-Air Ballon Event
Date: March 23, 2019
Time: 14:00-20:00
Price: Adults ¥2,500 / Children ¥2,000
*Tickets sold at the park’s Pleasure Station souvenir shop
*Illuminations from 18:00
Did you enjoy this list? When visiting Japan for the cherry blossoms be sure you get to experience them in lots of different ways and from different angles.
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Eggs ‘n Things are releasing a splash of pink to their menu this spring. The spring-limited menu includes a strawberry and cherry blossom whipped cream pancake (いちごと桜ホイップのパンケーキ) and a pink eggs benedict with beetroot sauce. The menu will be available from Friday 22nd March to Thursday 25th April 2019.
Strawberry and cherry blossom whipped cream pancake ￥1,480 (+ tax)
いちごと桜ホイップのパンケーキ
Strawberry paste is kneaded into the pancake and the pancake is topped with cherry blossom-flavoured whipped cream. This dessert is covered with smooth, refreshing strawberries and fromage blanc sourced from within Japan. A generous servicing of strawberry sauce finishes the dish. Enjoy this with a serving of light and sweet spring-coloured whipped cream!
Pink eggs benedict with beetroot sauce ￥1,380 (+ tax)
ビーツソースのピンクベネディクト
The well-known superfood the eggs benedict but served with a twist. A spring-themed pink hollandaise sauce has been made by combining white sauce with beetroot sauce. This is served with salmon, mozzarella cheese and avocado ー what a perfect combination!
Enjoy a serving of Eggs ’n Things limited edition menu along with a slice of happiness this spring!
Information
Strawberry and cherry blossom whipped cream pancake
Pink eggs benedict with beetroot sauce
Running: Friday 22nd March to Thursday 25th April 2019.
Available in restaurants within Japan only: ※ Not available at LaLaport and Nagoya Minato AQULS, Takasaki OPA, Kashiwa Takashimaya Station Mall
Eggs ’n Things official website: https://www.eggsnthingsjapan.com/ -
The hanami season is almost here! Hanami is one of the main ways of enjoying spring in Japan, but don’t forget about all of the seasonal, cherry blossom themed treats being sold specially for this spring time. Why not head to a cafe to see what seasonal goodies they have this year?
Over at Daimaru Tokyo they are having a cherry blossom sweets fair from March 15 to April 9. Let’s take a look at new desserts at 7 cafes in the department store.
Sakura Doki: ¥1,533 @ Saryo Tsujiri (Floor 10F)
A new experiment this season, the Sakura Dokri is a parfait made with non-alcoholic sweet sake. Spoon into cherry blossom flavoured sweet sake jelly, cherry blossom iced cream, strawberry sherbet, dango and more. This is spring and sakura in a cup!
Blue Afternoon Tea Fragola for 2: ¥5,600 @ THE CAMPANELLA CAFE (Floor 4F)
The hugely popular Blue Afternoon Tea Set of THE CAMPANELLA CAFE is turning pink for this spring season only.
Cherry Blossom & Strawberry White Crepe: ¥1,944 @ Sembikiya Fruit Parlour (Floor 3F)
A beautiful offering of cherry blossom bean paste and Japanese strawberries served onto a crepe with cherry blossom-fragranced white chocolate sauce and strawberry ice cream.
Classic Pancake Strawberry Fall: ¥780 @ Tully’s Coffee (Floor 4F)
These pancakes are loaded with strawberry sauce and drizzled in condensed milk.
Fruit Waffle: ¥1,080 (w/ drink ¥1,404) @ Cafe Eikokuka (Floor 7F)
Strawberries, kiwi and other colourful fruits bring spring to these deliciously fried waffles.
Cherry Blossom Anmitsu (w/ drink): ¥1,400 @ INODA COFFEE (Floor 8F)
This anmitsu―or syrup-covered anko bean jam―has been updated for spring with a cherry blossom flavour.
Printanier: ¥864 (w/ drink ¥1,404) @ BURDIGALA CAFE (Floor 5F)
This printanier is a cake made with cherry blossom and mascarpone cream and a pistachio mousse.
Don’t miss this sakura sweets this spring at Daimaru Tokyo!
Information
Sakura Sweets Fair
Running: March 15, 2019 – April 9, 2019
Daimaru Tokyo
Address: 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo
TEL: 03-3212-8011
Official Website: https://www.daimaru.co.jp/tokyo/ -
People are gearing up to enjoy the cherry blossoms at the upcoming Lake Sagami Cherry Blossom Festival which will take place at Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest in Sagamihara, Kanagawa from March 21, 2019.
Just an hour’s distance from Tokyo, this hanami festival is a chance to enjoy 2,500 cherry trees―the biggest collection in the Kanto region―from many different angles.
Climb aboard the Pair Lift to glide over the gorgeous strip of trees and enjoy hanami from up high.
Nighttime illuminations of all the trees will also run until April 7, 2019. A whopping 6 million illuminations will light up the trees to create a magical evening spectacle.
Hot-Air Balloon Hanami
Soar even higher and gaze across the pink landscape inside a hot-air balloon.
Hanami Photo Spot
Snap a photo at the fun photo spot located halfway up the rows of cherry trees. Countless white lights and bright white trees will provide a beautiful ground to your picture.
Hanami Food
Wild Dining, a restaurant in the heart of the park, will serve up a festive menu which can be enjoyed while viewing the cherry blossoms from the giant open windows.
After admiring the flowers and illuminations, why not take a dip in the resort’s hot springs? There is also a special ticket set that includes a free entry pass to the park when travelling there from Yokohama Station.
Enjoy the cherry blossoms in the daytime and evening at this year’s cherry blossom festival at Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest.
Information
Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest Cherry Blossom Festival
Address: 1634 Wakayanagi, Midori Ward, Sagamihara, Kanagawa Prefecture
Running: March 21, 2019 – April 21, 2019 (Closed April 11 & 18)
*Evening illuminations from March 21 to April 7.Opening Hours
Until April 7 – 9:00-21:00
From April 8 – Weekdays 10:00-16:00 / Weekends & Holidays 9:00-17:00
Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest Daytime Entry Prices (10:00-16:00)
Entry: Adults ¥1,700 / Children, Seniors & Pets (Dogs) ¥1,000
Free Pass: Adults ¥3,900 / Children, Seniors & Pets (Dogs) ¥3,100 AdultsLake Sagami Pleasure Forest Evening Entry Prices (16:00-21:00) *Last entries 20:30
Entry: Adults & Seniors ¥1,000 / Children & Pets (Dogs) ¥700TEL: 0570-037-353 (Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest)
Website: http://www.sagamiko-resort.jp/Hot-Air Ballon Event
Date: March 23, 2019
Time: 14:00-20:00
Price: Adults ¥2,500 / Children ¥2,000
*Tickets sold at the park’s Pleasure Station souvenir shop
*Illuminations from 18:00
