Cute & Shiny Doraemon Cookies & Dango Tin Are Kyoto Souvenirs You Can’t Leave Without
04.September.2019 | ANIME&GAME / FOOD
If you’re looking for must-buy souvenirs while in Kyoto then look no further. Heso Production are set to begin releasing Doraemon cookies and a cookie tin early this month at that are exclusive to souvenir shops and variety stores in Kyoto.
The cute printed cookies feature not only familiar faces from the Doraemon series, including the adorable cat robot himself, but illustrations of sights that are quintessential to traditional Kyoto culture including the five-story pagoda and the Daimonji bonfire.
Another must-grab is this shiny Doraemon tin. Also exclusive to Kyoto, the tin features a way-too-cute shiny design of Doraemon who is holding some dango.
The tin is filled with lemon flavoured ramune candy, a perfect nibble to have while travelling.
©Fujiko Pro・Shogakukan・TV Asahi・Shinei・ADK
Information
Dokodemo Doraemon Kyoto Exclusive Printed Cookies
Contains: 20
Price: ¥800 (Before Tax)
Release Date: Early September 2019 (Date may differ from store to store)
Location: Souvenir shops and variety stores in the Kansai region
Dokodemo Doraemon Kyoto Exclusive Shiny Tin
Contains: 2 bags (8g each) of lemon flavoured ramune candy
Price: ¥600 (Before Tax)
Release Date: Early September 2019 (Date may differ from store to store)
Location: Souvenir shops and variety stores in the Kansai region
Heso Production Official Website: https://www.heso-pro.com/
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Prepare for New Year by Ordering a Minion or Hello Kitty-Themed New Year Osechi Food Bento in Advance
28.August.2019 | FOOD
To properly celebrate a Japanese New Year, Osechi cannot be overlooked. Osechi is a Japanese term referring to special food traditionally served during the New Year holidays. The food is filled with the hopes, wishes and happiness of people. This year, Belle Maison has released Minion-themed and Hello Kitty-themed osechi bento boxes.
Belle Maison opened their reservation website for these Osechi Bento boxes on August 23rd.
2-Tier Minion Osechi Bento Box: ¥22,000 (after tax)
Underneath the dazzling smiling face of the minion is a bento box packed with delicious New Year’s goodness. The box contains a mix of traditional flavours as well as small appetizer-style bites. This is something that children as well as adults would love. The box even includes a delicious soup and a cured and steamed white fish kamaboko, which bears the image of a minion.
3-Tier Hello Kitty Osechi Bento Box: ¥19,900 (after tax)
The Hello Kitty Osechi comes in a Hello Kitty 45-year anniversary box. From the Hello Kitty ribbon-shaped mochi to the pink lilies made from yokan jellied red bean paste, this bento box is packed with cute and beautiful Hello Kitty goodness. There is also Hello Kitty mousse made from whipped cream and a Hello Kitty steamed bun with a sweet potato and chunky adzuki bean paste filling. This box is packed tightly with so many delicious desserts.
Order online during one of the following advanced sale periods for a discount:
Period 1 (10% off): August 23 ー September 30, 2019
Period 2 (7% off): October 1 ー 28, 2019
Period 3 (3% off): October 29 ー November 25, 2019
The earlier you order, the larger the discount so if you are interested, you should order earlier rather than later.
There is no better way to experience a Japanese New Year than with a Minion or Hello Kitty-themed Osechi Bento Box.
ⒸUniversal City Studios LLC. All Rights Reserved ©1976,2019 SANRIO CO.,LTD. APPROVAL NO.G600783
Information
2-Tier Minion Osechi Bento Box
List Price: ¥22,000 (after tax)
Best Before: Store in the freezer and consume before January 31, 2020
* Deliveries to Okinawa or the outer islands of Japan are not accepted. Delivery available to majority of locations in Japan.
*Sales will end once stock has completely sold out.
3-Tier Hello Kitty Osechi Bento Box
List Price: ¥19,900 (after tax)
Best Before: Store in the freezer and consume before January 31, 2020
*Sales will end once stock has completely sold out.
Websites
2-Tier Minion Osechi Bento Box: https://www.bellemaison.jp/minion
3-Tier Hello Kitty Osechi Bento Box: https://www.bellemaison.jp/kosechi
Deadlines to Order
Online: December 19, 2019 (17:00)
Catalog: December 18, 2019 (Wednesday)
Delivery Dates
December 29 ー 30, 2019
* Requests for specific delivery times and dates are not accepted.
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Become Pompompurin and Join the Pompompurin Party in Harajuku, Yokohama, Umeda & Nagoya
Sanrio is set to hold the Pompompurin Party at four branches of the Pompompurin Cafe from September 28. The party is exclusive to girls who have signed up to become Pombassadors (Pompompurin ambassadors).
The event is taking place as a way for Pompompurin to get to know his Pombassadors better. The role of a Pombassador is to show their love of Sanrio’s adorable golden retriever by promoting him to the world on their blogs, social media and elsewhere. In return, they receive invites to events, exclusive items and more.
Tickets for the event went on sale on the Pompompurin Party Special Site on August 28.
Everyone Will Transform Into Pompompurin
Pompompurin Plush Hat
At the party, everybody will be given their own Pompompurin outfit set which comes with a fluffy hat and tunic. Pombassadors can take these home after the party’s over.
Fluffy Tunic (Free Size: Length 82cm/Bust 79cm-94cm)
Original Photo Props (6 Designs – Choose Two Randomly)
They will also receive two props chosen randomly. All of these are exclusive items you can’t get anywhere else.
Pompompurin Party Original Menu
Purin’s Colourful Heart-Filled Stew (Available at all Pompompurin Cafe branches)
Strawberry Rare Cheese Cream Fondue (Available at Pompompurin Cafe Harajuku & Yokohama only)
Enjoy an original Pompompurin Party menu featuring a meal and dessert not listed on the usual Pompompurin Cafe menu. The cookie included with the cheese cream fondue pictured above is different at both the Harajuku and Yokohama branches.
Meet the Real Pompompurin
Pompompurin will of course attend the party to meet all of his Pombassadors, who will be able to get a photo with him while dressed up. Photos taken at the event will be posted both on the event’s website as well as the Pombassadors’ Twitter and Instagram where they can be found with the hashtag #ポムポムプリンパーティー (“Pompompurin Party”).
If you’re looking to become a Pombassador, more details can be found on the official website below.
©’96, ’19 SANRIO
Information
Pompompurin Party at Pompompurin Cafe
Times/Dates
Harajuku: September 28, 2019 @ 11:00~ / 15:00~ / 19:00~
Umeda: September 29, 2019 @ 11:00~ / 14:00~ / 17:00~ / 20:00~
Yokohama: October 5, 2019 @ 11:00~ / 15:00~ / 19:00~
*The Nagoya party is set for December 8, 2019. Tickets for this party will be released at a later date.
Official Website: http://pompom.createrestaurants.com/jp/
Addresses
Pompompurin Cafe Harajuku (CUTE CUBE HARAJUKU 3F, 1-7-1 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo)
Pompompurin Cafe Umeda (Hankyu Sanbangai South Wing B2F, 1-1-3 Shibata, Kita Ward, Osaka)
Pompompurin Cafe Yokohama (Yokohama Sotetsu Square, 2-1-5 Minamisaiwai, Nishi Ward, Yokohama)Pompompurin Cafe Nagoya (BECOME SAKAE 2F, 3-32-6 Sakae, Naka Ward, Nagoya)
Tickets
Price: ¥7,000 (Before Tax)
*Tickets include entry to the party, outfit set, and food. Please note that ticket prices will increase in line with Japan’s increase in consumption tax from 8% to 10% on October 1, 2019
Purchase: Via Peatix from the Pompompurin Party website. First-come, first served.
Conditions
①To attend this event, you must be a female registered as a Pompompurin ambassador. Pombassador cards will be checked at the cafes.
②You must be active in promoting the party on your social media
Pombassador Sign-Up→ https://form.ambassador.jp/get/pompompurin/ambassador/ambassador
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Dare To Treat Yourself to One of These 5 Halloween Dishes
One of Japan’s most favourite celebrations of the year is Halloween. As autumn is setting in, you will notice halloween decorations gradually drift into shop windows and more importantly, Halloween-themed desserts and meals taking over restaurant menus. To prepare for this delicious apocalypse, we are now unveiling this year’s top Halloween meals and desserts you really need to look out for.
Krispy Kreme Halloween Doughnuts
Krispy Kreme branches across Japan will be releasing their pumpkin, chestnut and apple flavoured selection called MONSTER HARVEST in Monster DINER from September 11 to October 31.
*Some branches may not sell the Halloween collection.
Halloween Dozen (Box of 12) Available: September 11 ー October 31, 2019 Price: ¥2,000 (before tax)
If you’re having a Halloween party with friends and family then this box of a dozen doughnuts is the perfect treat. It contains autumn-limited flavours such as pumpkin, apple chestnut as well as some of KKDJ’s classic doughnuts. Here’s a nice trick to save money on your treats: You save ¥440 if you purchase this box over individually purchasing the same doughnuts. Add a splash of autumn colour to your Halloween with this beautiful box of delicious doughnuts.
▼Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Japan Website: https://krispykreme.jp/
Halloween Menu at The Pokémon Cafe, Nihonbashi
The Pokémon Cafe in Nihonbashi, Tokyo has revealed its Halloween food and drink line-up for the spooky season which will arrive early on September 7 be served until October 31.
Pikachu’s Greedy Halloween Plate 2019 – ¥1,706 (w/ Plate ¥2,894)
This year’s Halloween plate features Pikachu wearing a witch’s hat. This filling plate features a pumpkin salad, spaghetti and more. Plenty to keep you going until the late-night candy snacking!
When ordering a drink at the cafe you’ll receive one of six possible original design coasters. New designs will replace these from September 7. One of the six designs is being kept a secret!
For the duration of the Halloween event, there’s also a limited-edition lunch mat and clear coaster to get your hands on. These are limited in stock so you’ll want to catch ’em all quickly! And don’t forget, you have to book a table in advance to dine at the Pokémon Cafe.
© 2019 Pokémon.©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 Inc. and GAME FREAK inc.
▼ Pokémon Cafe
Address: 2-1-2 Nihombashi | Nihombashi Takashimaya SC East Bldg. 5F, Chuo 103-0027, Tokyo Prefecture
Business Hours: 10:30-22:00Closed during Nihombashi Takashimaya SC East Bldg’s closed hours.
Reservations: https://reserve.pokemon-cafe.jp/
Official Website: https://www.pokemoncenter-online.com/cafe/
Cute Halloween Desserts at The Capitol Hotel Tokyu in Tokyo
The Capitol Hotel Tokyu in Tokyo has revealed that 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.
▼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/
Cool, Cute and Cutting Edge Halloween Treats: Alice Halloween Party Buffet 2019
Fantasy-themed restaurant Alice in an Old Castle has unveiled a new Halloween edition of their grand all-you-can-eat buffet. The Alice Halloween Party Buffet 2019 will take place from September 7 to October 31, 2019, serving up 30 varieties of desserts and light bites for their Halloween-limited event.
This season, they are serving a mummy-themed croque madame and carrot cake with a vibrant orange Halloween colour. They will also be bringing out their Alice in Wonderland Pink Spicy Curry which is a filling curry which has become the popular number one. The Pumpkin Potage Soup and many other autumn-themed dishes will also become part of the lineup. There is surely no better way to enjoy your time than to indulge in these splendid desserts and delicious snacks.
▼ Alice in an Old Castle
Address: Floor B1 Suzuwa Building, 2-16-8, Minami Ikebukuro Toshima, Tokyo
Regular Opening Hours: Mon-Fri, 17:00-23:30(L.O.22:30)
Weekends/national holidays 16:00-23:30(L.O.22:30)
No regular holidays (dependent on Suzuwa Building closing times)
Website: https://www.hotpepper.jp/strJ000999805/
Omotesando Q-pot CAFE. Cute Halloween Menu
Q-pot. is known for its accessory brand, which features jewellery made to look like sweets and desserts. It is also known for the Q-pot CAFE. which flips that concept, instead making sweets and desserts that look just like real accessories. For Halloween this year, the Q-pot CAFE. has whipped up a spooky menu with the theme “DEVIL NIGHT” featuring appearances of all things Halloween from pumpkins to ghosts.
Vampire Afternoon Tea Set – ¥2,400 each (price after tax, a minimum of two people required)
*Contains milk, eggs and wheat
Take a look at this spooky afternoon tea set perfect for adults! From devils to monsters, Q-pot CAFE. has recruited a number of freaky friends for their themed dishes to terrorize your tastebuds.
The top plate comes with sponge and cream cheesecake pops coated in chocolate and salty breadsticks. The set also comes with homemade scones made from butter cream and sweet and tangy berry sauce, devil heart macaron-topped cupcakes, and pumpkin macarons which are bound to set your Halloween levels to max!
The bottom plate features savoury foods. The croissants are filled with egg, aromatic basil and dried tomatoes which provide an interesting texture. The set also includes skewers of olives, mini tomatoes and pickles, and a Halloween Pumpkin soup.
If you are experiencing Halloween in Japan, you just have to try the themed desserts and meals!
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Experience a Hotel Camping Experience at Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto
Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto is collaborating outdoor recreation product brand Coleman to launch the Hotel Camp Buffet which will run from May 1 to August 31 at the hotel.
Guests can enjoy a fusion of the hotel and camping experiences as Coleman provides their tents, tables, chairs, and other outdoor items to be used at Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto. The hotel chef, Honda, has also conceived a camp buffet for guests to enjoy at both lunchtime and dinnertime.
The hotel is carrying out all necessary measures against COVID-19 including providing guests with a how-to breakdown at all tables, providing alcohol spray, mouth guards with the Coleman logo so guests can enjoy dining and talking, and more.
Coleman x Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto Hotel Camp Buffet
Individual Room Plan | Capacity: 4-6 People
Enjoy a camping buffet with tents, chairs, and other camping goods provided by Coleman. Everything will already be set up for guests to enjoy.
Lunch & Dinner Buffet Menus
Dinner
・Beef churrasco in black pepper
・Chicken paella
Lunch
・Frankfurt and smoked berry ham
Lunch & Dinner
・Meat and potato cottage pie
・Atlantic salmon wood plank grill
・Croque-madame style hot ham and cheese sandwich
・Spare ribs in BBQ sauce
Information
Hotel Camp Buffet
Where: ALL DAY DINING KAZA (Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto Floor 1F)
Address: 1 Taimatsuchō, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto
Running: May 1, 2021 – August 31, 2021
Times: [Lunch] 11:30-15:00 (Last Orders 13:00) / [Dinner] 17:30-21:00 (Last Orders 19:00)
Bookings: Must be made 3 days in advance. Slots are two hours max.
Price: ¥6,050 (Includes lunch and dinner buffet and room)
Lunch/Dinner: https://www.rihga.co.jp/kyoto/restaurant/list/kaza/menu/lunch/
Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto Official Website: https://www.rihga.co.jp/kyoto
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Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Holds Wisteria Event in Japan to Ward Off Demons
07.April.2021 | ANIME&GAME / SPOT
Keifuku Electric Railroad launched an event on Boxing Day last year in Japan in collaboration with the TV anime series Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. The event is still taking place and is set to end on April 11.
At Arashiyama Station on the Randen Line, there is a temporary area draped with wisteria flowers that commuters are encouraged to participate in as part of the collaboration. Built to ward off demons, fans of the anime series can write their own messages to be strung up on the flowers. They can write their thoughts and feelings on the characters and series as well as wishes and prayers for COVID to soon be over for all. It’s been a popular photo spot amongst passengers. And if you head from this area up to the roof, you can gaze out at the incredible view of Arashiyama.
Information
鬼滅の刃 京ノ御仕事 弐
開催期間:2020年12月26日(土)~2021年4月11日(日)
開催場所: 東映太秦映画村、京都鉄道博物館、嵐電「四条大宮駅」「嵐山駅」
Official Site:https://www.toei-eigamura.com/kimetsu
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Doraemon Daytime Umbrellas Release to Celebrate Manga’s 50th Anniversary
06.April.2021 | ANIME&GAME / FASHION
Japanese rain wear brand Wpc. is celebrating the 50th anniversary of Doraemon with the release of its I’m Doraemon series of daytime umbrellas. The collection dropped on Thursday at Wpc.’s online shop as well as at Wpc. Shinsaibashi PARCO and LOFT, PLAZA, and Mauri stores in Japan.
Shade Doraemon Galore mini | ¥3,400 (Before Tax)
Shade 4th Dimension mini | ¥3,200 (Before Tax)
Shade I’m Doraemon mini | ¥3,200 (Before Tax)
Shade Pass Loop mini | ¥3,200 (Before Tax)
The cute mini umbrella series cutes 99.99% of UV light and offers the same amount of shade.
Information
I’m Doraemon Umbrellas
Released: April 1, 2021
Wpc. ONLINE STORE: https://bit.ly/3rhj7Xb
Rakuten Wpc./KiU OFFICIAL SHOP: https://item.rakuten.co.jp/wpc-worldparty/c/0000000560/
ZOZOTOWN Wpc./KiU: https://zozo.jp/search/?p_tpcsid=1399035
Wpc. Shinsaibashi PARCO
LOFT・PLAZA・Marui・Miscellaneous stores and elsewhere
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The New Disney Kyoto Traditional Design Series Combines Disney With Kyoto Craftsmanship
Kyoto City and Japanese company Shintsu are set to release their Disney/Kyoto Traditional Design Series after previously having to postpone the release due to the pandemic. It will be available from April 27 to May 10 and celebrates the skilled, dexterous hands of Kyoto’s expert craftsman and their industry which has been passed down for thousands of years. They have innovated to create something brand-new that captures both the craft and culture of Kyoto and the contemporary wonder of Disney.
Comments from the Creators
©Disney
Okazen | Comment
“We have existed inside our town in Kyoto for 200 years. We make a variety of items from garments for maiko apprentice geisha to our own company-originals products. For this Disney/Kyoto Traditional Design Series, we wondered how we could express the world of Disney using the kyoyuzen Kyoto-style method of dyeing. We made something with detailed consideration, looking at all the intricate things in the dyeing process. Our Fantasia furisode long-sleeved kimono features a truly treasured scene which enabled use to incorporate many different methods in order to capture the expression, clothing, and all the stars as much as possible. We believe this piece will suck everyone into Fantasia’s world.”
©Disney
©Disney
Asahido | Comment
“For producing something for the Disney/Kyoto Traditional Design Series, we asked gave one of our craftsmen free rein to put their own individual self into the work. At the time, they were primarily an illustrator, so we were worried if the judges would overlook them, but the end result was something that looks truly complete and finished. The traditional craftwork of Kiyomizu pottery is a process of hand making and hand drawing each and every little thing. I believe it’s this quality that gives the characters warmth and life. I’d love for people to take it in their hands themselves and take their time looking at it in a full 360°.”
©Disney
Tsujikura | Comment
Tsujikura is Japan’s oldest wagasa Japanese umbrella shop. We’ve been in Kyoto since 1690. In that small space underneath the washi Japanese paper and bamboo, one enters a rich world where they can feel the four seasons of Japan. Our umbrella for the Disney/Kyoto Traditional Design Series uses a very advanced technique known as kiritsugi, a type of cutting and patching. We displayed Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse on handmade washi paper which we dyed. You can feel an affinity with the umbrellas for their simple and minimal designs. Our aim was to incorporate Disney elements into a traditional Japanese umbrella pattern.”
Other Featured Works
©Disney
aiba
©DISNEY Based on the”Winnie the Pooh” works by A.A. Milne and E.H. Shepard .
Asahido
©Disney
Kamiya
©Disney
©Disney
EIRAKUYA
©Disney
Okazen
©Disney
Katoriya
©Disney
Kanbayashi Shunsho Honten
©Disney
KYUKYODO
©Disney
Shoyeido
©Disney
Tankosha
©Disney
Tsujikura
©Disney
Nakajima Zougan
©Disney
Nakamura Rosoku
©Disney
Miyawaki Baisen-an
Information
「ディズニー/京都伝統工芸シリーズ」展示会
期間:2021年4月27日(火)〜5月10日(月)
47クラブ:https://www.47club.jp/27M-000131fod/
展示会詳細:https://densan.kyoto/event/event-6363/
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Poké Lid Project Lays Down New Manhole Covers in Kyoto
05.April.2021 | ANIME&GAME / SPOT
Five new Pokémon manhole covers were laid in Kyoto on Tuesday as part of the Poké Lid project to place Pokémon-design manhole covers across the country.
Kyoto Original Poké Lids
The five Poké Lids are located in Arashiyama, Okazaki Park, Maruyama Park, Umekoji Park, and Nishikyogoku Athletic Park.
All of the Poké Lids placed across Japan feature completely original Pokémon designs making each individual one the only one in the world. The Pokémon Company is also working to make each one of them PokéStops for Pokémon GO.
©2021 Pokémon. ©1995-2021 Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK inc.
Information
Kyoto Poké Lids
Details: https://www.city.kyoto.lg.jp/suido/page/0000274573.html
Official Website (English): https://local.pokemon.jp/en/manhole/
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Godzilla vs. Kyoto Event Begins This Spring
04.April.2021 | ANIME&GAME / SPOT
Kyoto Tower is set to be host to the upcoming Godzilla vs. Kyoto event which is running from April 16 to June 30.
Key visual illustrated by Yusuke Nakamura
Stamp design
Stamp design
Stamp rally postcard
Godzilla vs. Kyoto Official Merchandise
Novelty illustrated by Yusuke Nakamura – available for the first 50 people each day
Kyoto Tower will hold a stamp rally event as part of Godzilla vs. Kyoto which will have people trying to find stamps in six locations in the tower as well as at Toji Temple and elsewhere. There is also a selection of official merchandise, a Godzilla exhibition, and much more planned.
If you’re in Japan this spring, don’t miss Godzilla taking over Kyoto.
TM & (C) TOHO CO., LTD.
イラスト/中村 佑介 TM & (C) TOHO CO., LTD.
Information
Godzilla vs. Kyoto
Where: Kyoto Tower
Running: April 16, 2021 – June 30, 2021
Opening Hours: 11:00-19:00 (Last Entries 18:30)
Kyoto Tower Light-Up: May 14, 2021 from sunset to midnight
Event Details: https://www.keihanhotels-resorts.co.jp/kyoto-tower/event/2021/03/godzilla2021.html
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Matcha and Latte Cookies and Drinks Released by Yojiya
01.April.2021 | FOOD
Kyoto makeup brand Yojiya is now selling its own collection of snacks and drinks which it released via its website last week.
Yojiya Matcha Sandwich Cookies | ¥1,400 (Tax Included)
Yojiya Cafe Latte Chocolate Cookies | ¥1,350 (Tax Included)
Yojiya Matcha Milk | ¥950 (Tax Included)
Yojiya’s snack line-up is made with the idea of being able to enjoy high-quality food products at home. Their collection includes crunchy matcha and cafe latte cookies along with matcha milk, the latter of which is made with famous Uji matcha from Uji, Kyoto. Perfect for a tea/coffee break or as a souvenir.
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HOSHINOYA Kyoto Announces Traditional Boat Ride Experience With Musical Performance For Guests
25.March.2021 | SPOT
HOSHINOYA Kyoto has announced that this summer it will hold its Kyo no Ohayashibune boat-riding service which allows one group of guests to rent a boat on which they will ride down the Ōi River and enjoy a traditional musical performance while tucking into some chimaki bamboo-wrapped cake, a confection seen only during the run of Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri festival.
Experience 1: Traditional hayashi orchestra aboard a Heian aristocratic boat
One group of guests will board their rented boat at Togetsu Bridge and be taken down the river where they can enjoy the verdant expanse of the valley while listening to a traditional Japanese Gion hayashi musical performance. The Ōi River was formerly a river boated down by Heian nobles who would have waka poetry and orchestral music performed to them on board. HOSHINOYA Kyoto guests will also be able to feel like a Heian aristocrat with this exclusive experience.
Experience 2: The sounds of Konchi Kichin
Konchi kichin is another Japanese term to express Gion hayashi musical performance. These performances are composed of Japanese gongs, flutes, and taiko drums, which are played on yamaboko floats by several dozen people during processions at the Gion Festival. The boat ride will recreate this experience so guests can enjoy the performance more up close as well as learn how to play the gong.
Experience 3: A taste of chimaki
Guests will be able to feel like they are at the Gion Festival by kicking back and enjoying a cup of green tea together with a chimaki, a traditional bamboo-wrapped cake that’s only served at the festival. These cakes are often used to decorate the entrances of people’s houses in Kyoto to ward off illness and disasters.
Gion Matsuri is one of Japan’s three biggest festivals. It has been around for over 1,000 years and last a month. When July hits, the Japanese Gion hayashi orchestras begin popping up around the city signalling the start of the festival. It’s a summer tradition of Kyoto and one which can now be enjoyed on board a special boat experience.
Information
HOSHINOYA Kyoto – “Kyo no Ohayashibune”
Japanese Service Name: 星のや京都「京のお囃子舟(はやしぶね)」
Running: July 2021 (July 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th, 30th, and 31st)
Times: 17:30-18:30
Boarding Point: HOSHINOYA Kyoto
Notes: Guests only
Bookings: https://hoshinoya.com/kyoto/
*Bookings must be made 3 days in advance
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These Mother’s Day Gifts by Kyoto Brands Offer Well-Deserved Relaxation Time
14.March.2021 | FOOD
Japanese company Maruhisa has released a new collection of Mother’s Day gift items which will make for perfect relaxation presents to well-deserving mothers, whether you live with them or have been unable to meet with them for a long time.
A collection of four items from Kyoto
The set includes three sweet treats from Kyoto as well as a premium face mask made by a Fushimi-based brewery.
The Set at a Glance
Strawberry Flower Chocolate Cookies (Contains 6)
These chocolate cookies are a staple Kyoto souvenir. They’re made by buckwheat producer Marutamachi Kawamichiya and are shaped to look like cute flowers.
Matcha Strawberry Chocolate (3 Bags)
These matcha strawberry chocolates are made using authentic matcha from a tea shop in Kyoto. They’re stuffed with whole freeze-dried strawberries which add a fruity tang.
Chocolate Senbei Rice Cracker Bouquets (Contains 5)
A tasty delight made by Sekiseika, a maker of Japanese senbei rice crackers that has been around since 1922. This perfect bouquet is made with chocolate cream and topped with crushed almonds.
Fushimi Bijin Premium Face Mask (Contains 1)
This face mask contains a range of plant-based ingredients such as junmaishu sake made without added alcohol or sugar and coconut water. The junmaishu is provided by Tsukinokatsura, one of the oldest Japanese breweries that was first established in 1675.
Have you bought your Mother’s Day gift yet?
Information
Mother’s Day Gifts
Buy Here (Japan): https://item.rakuten.co.jp/kimono-kyoukomati/20037602/
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Tokyo’s Pixar Exhibition ‘PIXAR! PIXAR! PIXAR!’ to Open in Spring 2021
A Japan-original Pixar exhibition by the name of PIXAR! PIXAR! PIXAR! is set to run from April 8-19 at Seibu Ikebukuro in Tokyo. The exhibition is a celebration of all things Pixar Animation Studio and Walt Disney Japan where fans will have the opportunity to glimpse never-before-seen concept art, learn about the secrets of the studio’s office building, hear interviews with Japanese staff who work at the animation studio, and much more.
Pixar fanatics can expect to see all their favourite characters from the filmography such as Monsters Inc., Toy Story, Wall-E, Coco, Finding Nemo, and more. There will be plenty of merchandise to add to the collection too—around 200 pieces in fact—including items with official artwork that has never been made into merch before.
New official artwork illustrated by Pixar Animation Studios for ‘PIXAR! PIXAR! PIXAR!’
The artists at Pixar Animation Studios have created an original collection of artwork for the exhibition which will be displayed around the site itself as well as on merchandise sold there. There will also be a behind-the-scenes video showing at the exhibition where you can see the staff drawing the pieces.
A historical lookback at Pixar’s filmography
The exhibition will pay homage to everything Pixar has to offer, from their roots of animation shorts to their critically acclaimed full length animated features. If you have a favourite from any of these, you’re sure to find merchandise of it at the exhibition.
Feel like you’ve been invited to Pixar Animation Studios
The exhibition will have an area decorated with a gallery of posters, the famous Pixar lamp and ball, Woody and Buzz statues made from Lego, and more, as well as a photo gallery from pictures taken inside the studio.
Learn all there is to know about Pixar
Learn all the trivia about Pixar from what kind of Japanese people work at the studio, what characters are hidden throughout their films, and more.
Original Merchandise
Fans can sift through around 200 pieces of original merchandise.
Movie Poster Collection
The posters released for each of Pixar’s films have been shrunk down into a collection of postcards.
Final frame merchandise
A line-up of merchandise featuring the final frames taken from all 23 of Pixar’s feature length animations.
Early concept art
The exhibition will sell an array of merchandise featuring artwork that has never been turned into merch before, such as early concept art.
Easter eggs
There will also be merchandise featuring fun Easter eggs hidden throughout Pixar’s films.
Pixar Animation Studios
A line-up of merchandise that makes you feel like you’re part of the Pixar office.
Bonus Items
Visitors that spend over ¥3,000 (tax included) on merchandise at the exhibition will receive one of 8 possible pins. These are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, spending over ¥6,000 will get fans an original bottle too.
The exhibition will also be moving around Japan after its Tokyo run. Check the locations below.
©DISNEY/PIXAR All rights reserved. No reproduction or republication without written permission.
Information
PIXAR! PIXAR! PIXAR!
Running: April 4, 2021 – April 19, 2021
Opening Hours: 10:00-20:00
Where: Seibu Ikebukuro Annex Bldg. Floor 2F
Price: General ¥800 / Children ¥500
Kyoto Exhibition
Running: April 21, 2021 – May 5, 2021
Where: Daimaru Kyoto Museum Floor 6F
Entry: Free
Aichi Exhibition
Running: July 21, 2021 – August 12, 2021
Where: Matsuzakaya Nagoya Floor 7F
Entry: Free
Shizuoka Exhibition
Running: December 29, 2021 – January 16, 2021
Where: Matsuzakaya Shizuoka Floor 8F
Entry: Free
POP-UP SHOP
Where: Fukuoka PARCO Floor 5F
Running: April 17, 2021 – May 9, 2021
Entry: Free
Official Website: https://www.ntvs.co.jp/ppp-official/
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Blue Bottle Coffee’s Kyoto Cafe Announces New Lounge Area Opening
Blue Bottle Coffee Japan has announced that its new lounge space The Lounge -Kyoto- will open on the second floor of its Kyoto cafe on March 20, 2021.
An Exclusive Course at The Lounge -Kyoto-
KYO-TO-TO x Blue Bottle Coffee Original Hand Towel
¥1,700 (Exclusive to Blue Bottle Cafe Kyoto)
Blue Bottle Coffee opened its Kyoto-based cafe in March 2018 as its eighth branch. The first by the coffee chain to open in the Kansai region of Japan, the cafe is located near the famous Nanzen-ji Temple. The cafe building itself is renovated from a traditional two-storey Kyoto-style house which has a history spanning over 100 years. Blue Bottle Cafe retained many of the building’s traditional charms like the thick beams and pillars which are both rough yet refined and tasteful.
The Lounge -Kyoto- is also a renovation that maintains the warmth and welcoming atmosphere of the Kyoto-style house. This exclusive area seats just seven people, with seats needing to be booked in advance. Customers can enjoy Blue Bottle Coffee’s new coffee course menu which includes three different freshly-made coffees and two seasonal desserts. The cafe recommends trying each coffee as it is first to enjoy the flavour before customising it.
If you’re heading through Kyoto this spring or in the future, be sure to book seats at Blue Bottle Coffee’s new lounge space.
Information
The Lounge – Kyoto –
Grand Opening: March 20, 2021
Address: 64 Nanzenji Kusakawachō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto
Reservations: https://yoyaku.toreta.in/bbc-kyotocafe
Blue Bottle Coffee Official Website: https://store.bluebottlecoffee.jp/
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Doraemon Future Department Store to Open Pop-Up Shop in Ginza Mitsukoshi
03.March.2021 | ANIME&GAME / FASHION / SPOT
Benelic Co., Ltd. has announced the opening of a pop-up shop version of Doraemon Future Department Store, the world’s first official Doraemon shop, at Ginza Mitsukoshi in Tokyo from March 17.
Doraemon Future Department Store first opened back in December 2019 in Odaiba, Tokyo. Dedicated to the beloved manga and anime character Doraemon, the store has opened various pop-up shops across Japan including Fukuoka, Osaka, and Nagoya. The new pop-up shop will be the first to open in Tokyo and will be stocked with the usual fan must-grabs, items exclusive to the Odaiba shop, Ginza exclusives, pre-sales, and more.
Ginza Mitsukoshi Exclusives & Pre-Sales
1. The Exclusives
The Ginza Mitsukoshi pop-up shop will sell four exclusive items including a T-shirt, handy tote bag, and more.
The merchandise will feature an illustration based on the designs of the shopping bags given at Doraemon Future Department Store. Take a look below.
Ginza Mitsukoshi Exclusive T-Shirt (5 Colours) | ¥3,520 (Tax Included)
Sizes: S・M・L
Ginza Mitsukoshi Exclusive 2-Way Tote Bag | ¥2,860 (Tax Included)
2. The Presales
Fans can get their hands on pre-sales of 7 items in the “Flying to Department Store” series of kitchen, cookware, and other items, as well as 12 accessories that both kids and adults alike can enjoy.
Flying to Department Store Series – Kitchen Apron | ¥4,400 (Tax Included)
Flying to Department Store Series – 21cm Plate | ¥3,850 (Tax Included)
Doraemon & Dorami Back Earrings | ¥2,200 (Tax Included)
Customisation Service
The pop-up shop will offer a customisation service which lets customers have different embroideries put into the T-shirts, tote bags, and key rings. The work is done on the spot by hand so you can see the result of what will be a very special item of which only one exists in the world. Perfect for Doraemon fans and gifts to friends and family.
Freshly-Made Dorayaki
The Ginza Mitsukoshi pop-up shop will also serve freshly-baked dorayaki stamped with Doraemon’s cute face. They will be made in limited quantities each day.
Dorayaki | ¥290 (Tax Included)
Bonus Items For Spending
1. Every purchase at the Doraemon Future Department Store pop-up will earn customers a free sticker. These are available in limited quantities.
2. The first 300 people at the pop-up shop to take their receipts to the main Doraemon Future Department Store in Odaiba between March 17 and 29 will receive a different limited-edition free sticker.
Ginza Mitsukoshi Original Doraemon Sticker
Odaiba Doraemon Future Department Store Sticker
Information
Doraemon Future Department Store in Ginza Mitsukoshi 2021
Running: March 17, 2021 – March 29, 2021
Where: Ginza Mitsukoshi Shinkan Floor 7F
Address: 4-7-16 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Opening Hours 10:00-20:00 (Until 18:00 on March 29)
Doraemon Future Department Store Official Website: https://mirai.dora-world.com/