Fruit tart specialist shop Qu’il fait bon will be selling a brand new kind of lovable tart which is made using a rare species of grape sourced from Yamanashi prefecture. The tart is currently selling at Grand Maison, Ginza and Hamamatsu. These will be available for a limited period only. 

The tart is covered with incredibly rare “My Heart” grapes, which were developed by the grape research institute Shimura Budou Kenkyusho. Growing and cultivating these grapes was no easy task and took an incredible amount of time. There was only a short window of time available to harvest the produce and even then the harvest was small, so stocking up was very difficult. Despite the challenges, these tongue-tantalizing tarts are being sold this year, however, they are in limited supply. 

Shine muscat grapes and loubell muscat grapes were crossbred to create this new kind of grape. The marvellous flavour of both parent grapes can be tasted. The new grapes have a high sugar content, a wonderful scent and the skin is wonderfully crunchy.  

Take a bite into the special Yamanashi Grape My Heart Tart and you will be filled with a sophisticated fruity flavour. The adorable heart-shaped grapes are layered perfectly on top of a bed of white wine custard. You just have to try this delicious and beautiful tart!

At MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON, we have introduced a lot of kawaii bubble tea drinks you can in enjoy in Kyoto. However, we have much more to offer you than just bubble tea news! Today we have summarised the top soda drinks you can enjoy in Kyoto which both look and taste amazing. With the help of kyoto cafe life tiara ‘s phenomenal photos, we will be introducing you our top six picks.

SHIN-SETSU /Nakagyō-ku

Blood Orange (left)  Blue Curaçao (right): ￥690

After a year of extensive research eating pancake after pancake, the one known as the “Pancake Prince” will open another branch of the Pancake restaurant VERY FANCY® in Omotesando on September 11. This restaurant will feature a unique Omotesando menu. 

The real identity of the legendary Pancake Prince is Satoru Sugimoto. In just one year, he visited a total of over 200 pancake restaurants in Japan and even overseas. His endless research led him to crafting a series of special recipes, which consist of high quality ingredients such as low viscosity wheat flour, aluminium-free baking powder, buttermilk and homemade cheese. The pancakes are fried carefully, creating a fluffy pancake with a new half-baked texture. 

VERY FANCY® has launched a brand new online advanced booking system which allows customers to quickly take to their seats without having to wait. Thanks to this new system, the restaurant has now become queueless. 

The menu at the brand new restaurant is based on the restaurant’s standard pancake menu. The additional Omotesando menu is full of original ingredients and toppings that are unique to Omotesando. If you turn up to this branch, you can enjoy a lot more than just pancakes as there will be a variety of collaboration contents offered as well. This restaurant has also prepared a kid’s menu and baby chairs. 

Homemade cheese kneaded into pancake batter and then fried to perfection ー this is just one example of the new fluffy “half cooked” texture pancakes that you absolutely must try. Come spend a wonderful moment munching marvelous pancakes surrounded by a cute and photogenic atmosphere.  

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: 10:30-22:00

Closed 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!

If you are a fan of delicious and dainty desserts then DOTORI is definitely for you. DOTORI, which specialises in handmade macarons, will be opening their new branch in the peaceful picturesque Tokyo district of Daikanyama on August 23 2019.

DOTORI makes and bakes their macarons daily. The macarons here are slightly bigger than your standard ones and are filled with a thick layer of cream. Enjoy the way it melts in your mouth beautifully.

DOTORI’s divine macarons are not the only blessing to fall upon Daikanyama. The shop is also fully stocked with a variety of drinks that are a perfect match with the macarons. From Milk Bubble Tea and Coffee to Cheese Tea, there is a full lineup of delicious and original DOTORI drinks to discover. 

Surrounded by the white-themed interior, customers can soak in the beautiful and liberating view of lustrous green trees outside.

To celebrate the opening of the new shop, there will be a special five-day campaign running from August 23 to 27. The first 50 customers to order a drink on each day of the campaign will receive a free drink carrier with their order. (Limit of one per customer.)

Head to Daikanyama for the divine DOTORI experience you deserve.

Hey, MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON readers! I’m Banako of MOSHI MOSHI FRIENDS.

It’s safe to say that most long-standing, older cafés in Japan serve cream soda. It’s a drink that bellows with nostalgia, topped cutely with a dollop of ice cream and sparkling bright with vivid colour like some rare jewel.

It’s a rather simple drink, but the number of people intrigued by its unique appearance are evidently on the rise. And I’m one of those people! I’ve had times where if it’s available on the menu I want to order it－and further still I’ve gone out of my way to a café solely because I’ve wanted some cream soda.

Depending on the vibe and atmosphere of a café, the appearance of the cream soda will be different, which also means a different flavour. This is all part of the enjoyment of cream soda: it’s fun to compare the different tastes.

I have made a long list of my most recommended cream sodas in Tokyo, all of which I have actually tried!

To make it easier to picture each drink I have also given a rating out of 5☆ stars for the strength of the fizziness, the sweetness of the soda, and sweetness of the ice cream. Use this as reference when picking your drink of choice. Enjoy this specially curated selection of drinks in cafés that you’re going to want to snap lots of pictures of♡

①CAMPUS TOY cafe&bar

CAMPUS TOY is located in the Jinbocho district of Tokyo. This exciting little place has gone for an American pop vibe. They sell toys too.

The extra goodies they put in the cream soda here is influenced by the US too. The owner is a really interesting person, so much so that you end up losing track of the time as you get lost in conversation with them.

Fizziness：★★★★☆

Soda Sweetness：★★☆☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★☆☆

CAMPUS TOY cafe&bar

Address: 2-10 Kanda-Jinbocho, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo

Opening Hours: [Mon-Fri] 18:00-22:00

Closed: Weekends & Public Holidays

Access: 2-minutes on foot from Jinbocho Station’s A2 Exit

TEL: 03-3261-7383

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/campustoy_matz/?hl=ja

②Café Negura

This little-known-good-spot can be found in Shimokitazawa. The café interior has relaxed and retro décor. Their cream soda is served with two stacks of ice cream and a crown of whipped cream topped off with a cherry. What a cute-looking drink!

Fizziness：★★★☆☆

Soda Sweetness：★☆☆☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★★☆

▶︎ Café Negura

Address: PACKAGE ONE Floor 1F (North Side), 2-26-13 Kitazawa, Setagaya Ward, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 11:30 ー 20:00

Closed: Mondays & Tuesdays

Access:152m walk from Shimokitazawa Station

Twitter：https://twitter.com/neguracafe_mi

③Sepia

Another retro-style café, except this one is specifically influenced by the Showa period . Situated in Shibamata, everything about this café, from the outside to the interior, breathes retro-Showa. On the second floor is the Candy Candy Museum.

Their cream soda is the quintessential classic cream soda…but with a twist. It has mikan in it, a type of orange, which is very rare with cream sodas. That gives off a retro-ness too. Another cute beverage!

Fizziness：★★★☆☆

Soda Sweetness：★★☆☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★☆☆

▶︎ Sepia

Address: 7-4-11 Shibamata, Katsushika Ward, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 10:00-18:30 (Last Orders 18:00

Closed: Tuesdays & Wednesdays

Access: 2-minutes on foot from Shibamata Station (Accessed via the Keisei Line)

Instagram: https://instagram.com/sepiamama?igshid=1urnwdix23qbx

④ALL C’S CAFE

ALL C’S CAFE is in Koenji, the retro hub of Tokyo. Decorations of cute bears are what this café is all about. There are enormous life-sized bears everywhere, so you can get ready to snap some seriously kawaii pictures.

The café itself, as well as the adorable smiley bear on your cream soda, is sure to elicit some high-pitched “Aww’s.”

Fizziness：★★★☆☆

Soda Sweetness：★★☆☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★★☆

▶︎ALL C’S CAFE

Address: Miyake Bldg. 2F, 3-25-24 Koenji, Suginami Ward, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 12:00-22:00

Closed: No Fixed Holidays (except Obon and New Year’s Holidays)

Access: 5-minutes on foot from the north exit of Koenji Station (Accessed via the JR Chuo Line)

Website: http://www.allcscafe.com

⑤Café Hosekibako

Hosekibako, which means ‘jewelry box’ in Japanese, is right next to Chitose-Karasuyama Station. Retro vibes waft their way throughout this cozy little hideaway with the littering of Showa manga and other miscellaneous odds and ends.

This café too has the signature classic cream soda. It has a transparent appearance in its truly beautiful colour.

Fizziness：★★★☆☆

Soda Sweetness：★★★☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★☆☆

▶︎ Café Hosekibako

Address: Koyama Mansion 102, 4-18-18 Minamikarasuyama, Setagaya Ward, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 12:00-18:30 (Last Orders 18:00)

Closed: Wednesdays

Access: 5-minutes on foot from the east exit of Chitose-Karasuyama Station (Accessed via the Keio Line)

Website: https://housekibako.wixsite.com/2009

⑥THE GREAT BURGER STAND

This hamburger shop sells an American-style cream soda, topped with swirly ice cream rather than cream soda’s classic dollop. That, together with the huge glass it’s served in, is enough to get you excited before you even take a sip. The café can be found in Shibuya Stream, meaning you can stop by for a breather after shopping.

Fizziness：★★★★☆

Soda Sweetness：★★☆☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★★☆

▶︎THE GREAT BURGER STAND

Address: Shibuya Stream 1F, 3-21-3 Shibuya, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo

Access: 1-minute on foot from Shibuya Station via the JR Yamanote Line 

Opening Hours: 11:00 ー 23:00 (Last orders:  22:30)

Closed when Shibuya Stream is closed.

Access: Approx. 1-minute walk from Shibuya Station (JR Yamanote Line)

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_great_burger/

⑦Coffee Shop Galant

Right beside Ueno Station you’ll find Galant, a coffee shop also with an air of retro-Showa to it during the bubble economy period. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time when you see the dazzling décor and the staff uniforms. Peeking through the see-through liquid is a cute red cherry♡

Fizziness：★★★★☆

Soda Sweetness：★★☆☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★☆☆

▶︎ Coffee Shop Galant

Address: 6-14-4 Ueno, Taito Ward, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 8:00-23:00

No Fixed Holidays

Access: Directly behind the toy store Yamashiroya (山城屋), just a two minute walk from JR Ueno Station. Also 1-minute on foot from exit 5b of Ueno Station (accessed via the Tokyo Metro Line and Hibiya Line)

Tabelog: https://www.google.co.jp/amp/s/s.tabelog.com/tokyo/A1311/A131101/13039759/top_amp/

⑧bio ojiyan cafe Harajuku

Ojiya, also known as zosui, is a type of Japanese rice-based vegetable soup. In my opinion, the ojiya served here is the tastiest in the world! Their cream soda comes in a large round cup and is a nice refreshment after a spot of ojiya.

Fizziness：★★★★☆

Soda Sweetness：★★☆☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★★☆

▶︎bio ojiyan café

Location: 4-26-28 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 11:00-20:00

No Fixed Holidays

Access: 10-minutes on foot from JR Harajuku Station / 3-minutes on foot from the Jingumae Crossing ticket gate elevator exit of Meiji-Jingumae Station (Accessed via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)

Website: http://mfs11.com/brand/bio-ojiyan-cafe-harajuku/

⑨PEPPERS DRIVE IN

The main dish at this Kanagawa-based restaurant is curry. Every single thing about PEPPERS DRIVE IN is influenced by retro US elements, from the car park to the nooks and crannies inside and even the trays. You can take some really cute photos literally anywhere in the restaurant. The cream soda portion stays true to the American taste too with a generous serving.

Fizziness：★★★☆☆

Soda Sweetness：★★☆☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★☆☆

▶︎PEPPERS DRIVE IN 

Address: 1129-1 Kidokoro, Hiratsuka, Kanagawa

Opening Hours: Lunch 11:30-15:00 (Last Orders 14:45) / Dinner 18:00-22:00 (Last Orders 21:30)

Closed: Wednesdays (Except on public holidays, in which case closed the following day)

Access: 6-minutes by taxi from south exit of Isehara Station (Accessed via the Odakyu Odawara Line) / 16-minutes by taxi from the north exit of Hiratsuka Station (Accessed via the JR Tokaido Main Line)

Official Website: http://www.peppers.co.jp

⑩BRIDGE

I reviewed the melon bread pancakes at this Ginza-based café earlier this year. It’s located inside a long-standing department store meaning the cream soda here has been around for a long time too, offering a more traditional taste. They are served on coasters which you can take home with you. It’s a great place to stop off for a break when strolling around Ginza.

Fizziness：★★☆☆☆

Soda Sweetness：★★★★☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★☆☆

▶︎BRIDGE

Address: NISHIGINZA Floor B1F, 4-1 Ginza, Chuo Ward, Tokyo

Business Hours: [Monday-Saturday] 11:00-20:30 (Last Orders 20:00) / [Sunday & Holidays] 11:00-20:00 (Last Orders 19:30)

Closed: When NISHIGINZA Department Store is closed.

Website: http://www.nishiginza.co.jp/page/shopguide/detail/?id=33

⑪HIROMAN’S COFFEE

Another snug hideout, situated in the backstreets and surrounded by trees, is HIROMAN’S COFFEE. This cute café has lots of antique picture frames, rabbit ornaments, and other tidbits. Their melon soda arrives in a cute round and plump glass. They plenty of other Instagrammable drinks too including one topped with cotton candy. This one is one to keep coming back to!

Fizziness：★★★★☆

Soda Sweetness：★★☆☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★☆☆

▶︎ HIROMAN’S COFFEE

Address: 3-18-12 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 11:00-19:00 (Last Orders 18:30)

No Fixed Holidays

Access: 10-minutes on foot from Meiji-Jingumae Station

Instagram: https://instagram.com/hiromans_coffee?igshid=oumb3g7aergo

⑫ blikje button

⑫blikje button

blikje button in Shimokitazawa, which offers both a café and dining experience, has a vintage vibe to it with decorations that have a handcrafted feel to them.  The glasses the cream sodas come in match that aesthetic. The stroking colours of the sodas are something beautiful to behold!

Fizziness：★★★★☆

Soda Sweetness：★★☆☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★☆☆

▶︎blikje button

Address: Shimokitazawa Central Bldg. 2F, 2-14-7 Kitazawa, Setagaya Ward, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 12:00-23:00 (Lunch 12:00-16:00/Café 12:00-18:00/Dinner 17:00-23:00) *Food last orders 22:00, drink last orders 22:30

No Fixed Holidays

Access: 2-minutes on foot from Shimokita Station via the Odakyu Line / 2-minutes on foot from the south-west exit of Shimokitazawa Station via the Keio Inokashira Line

Website: http://www.blikje-button.com/

⑬CAROLINE DINER

CAROLINE DINER is a famous café in Harajuku inspired by American diners. The cream sodas sold here are striking and nothing short of Instagram-worthy! They go perfectly with the stylish interior of the café that you’ll no doubt find yourself taking photos.

Fizziness：★★★☆☆

Soda Sweetness：★★★☆☆

Ice Cream Sweetness：★★★☆☆

▶︎CAROLINE

Address: 2-14-11 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 12:00-18:30 (Last Orders 18:00)

Closed: Thursdays

Access: 10-minutes on foot from Meiji-Jingumae Station / 10-minutes on foot from Kita-Sando Station / 10-minutes on foot from Setagaya Station

Website: http://caroline1.theshop.jp/

And that’s all from me Banako and my must-try recommendations for Tokyo cream soda. Do you have a favourite from this list?

Tokyo’s summer is nowhere near over yet. How about treating to yourself to a nice refreshing cream soda to cool yourself down from the scorching heat?

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.

Kiyomizu Cheese Kobo opened at Kiyomizu Gojozaka at the foot of the famous Kiyomizudera Temple as Kyoto’s first ever cheesecake shop to sell its delicious cheesecakes in a cute jar. On August 13, they released a mouthwateringly rich Matcha Cheese Tea which will enlighten you with a new way to enjoy matcha.

The Matcha Cheese Tea harnesses Kyoto’s unbeatable Uji matcha which is full of rich and fresh flavour. A light cloud of fluffy cheese foam floats on top of the drink, adding a salty accent to the overall flavour. A traditional tea combined with a sweet and salty cheese flavour ー this brand new flavour discovery will leave you feeling refreshed and enlightened. The recipe for the cheese foam consists of cream cheese carefully selected by the cheesecake shop’s specialists. This is then blended with a small amount of salt to accent the flavour. 

If you mix the matcha milk tea with the cheese foam, the rich matcha mixes with the saltiness of the cream cheese, creating a sweet salty flavour that you will not be able to get enough of. As the flavour is not too overpowering, you can enjoy this drink endlessly and will feel refreshed even on a hot summer’s day. 

Matcha Cheese Tea: ￥460

Kiyomizu Cheese Kobo recommends three different ways to drink the Matcha Cheese Tea to enjoy three different levels of flavour combinations. 

① First off, drink just the matcha milk tea so you can experience the true authentic flavour of Kyoto’s famous rich Uji matcha tea. 

② Next, move your straw so that you taste just the cheese foam on its own. The fluffy foam will gently slide over your tongue and spread a mild and sweet flavour all over your mouth. 

③ Finally, it’s time to mix everything. The saltiness of the cheese foam and the sweetness of the matcha milk will create a new salty sweet flavour that you will want to try again and again.

Whether you are a Japanese local or a foreigner, this drink is a fun new way to enjoy matcha. If you are new to matcha, this is a good way to try the flavour without being too overwhelmed. 

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.

Instagrammer Kei @607keih) uses his account to introduce the world to delicious desserts and meals. Today, he will be introducing you to the delicious strawberry-flavoured desserts that Hokkaido’s capital Sapporo has to offer.

holidays pancake/ Susukino

Strawberry Pancake with Raspberry Sauce: ￥1200

holidays pancake is only open on Sundays. It is located inside a beer bar called es CRAFT. I ordered the strawberry pancake with raspberry sauce. The plate was stacked with three pancakes which were deliciously covered in fresh cream, whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, strawberries and raspberry sauce. The pancakes were soft and spongy. The flavour of the ricotta cheese really came through. Overall, this pancake is a very unique pancake to Hokkaido. 

The sweetness of the raspberry sauce and sourness of the lemon juice balanced out for a slightly sour tinge. The fresh cream and vanilla ice cream toppings can be obtained for free by simply following the café on Instagram. The variety of toppings add a whole new range of flavours and colours for you to mix and match, so there is no getting bored. You can reserve your spot simply by sending them a direct message on Instagram, or by referring to their story! These pancakes are a rare find in Hokkaido, so you must try them.

▼holidays pancake

Address: 1st floor N-place Building, 3-2-1, 4 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo

Access: 3-minute walk from Susuki Station/Hosui-Susukino Station  

Opening Hours: 11:00 ー 16:00（Last orders: 5:30）

Closed: Mondays ー Saturdays

Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kyujitsulab/

BerryBerryCrazy/ Susukino

Berry Berry Crazy is located on the 2nd floor of the building between 5-chome and 6 chome of Tanuki-Koji. The desserts here are made using strawberries sourced from Urakawa Sugano Orchard in Hokkaido. The species of strawberry used in the desserts is completely dependent on what is received upon the delivery of the ingredients that are received on the day. The parfait I ordered was made using a species of strawberry called Kaorino.

The parfait contained fresh strawberries and strawberry compote, whipped cream, strawberry granita, pie crust, chiffon cake, and milk ice cream. You can tell that this parfait is full of strawberry goodness just by looking at it. Not only are the strawberries delicious, but the strawberry granita and strawberry compote were also to die for. This combined with the delicious whipped cream enhances the rich flavour even more. 

▼Berry Berry Crazy

Address: 2nd floor, 5-20-2, Minami 3 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo

Access: Approx. 5-minute walk from Odori Subway Station/Susuki Station

Opening Hours: 18:00 ー 24:00 (Last orders: 23:30)

Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/berryberrycrazy/

Café Blue/ Chuo Ward

Condensed Milk Strawberry Pancake: ￥1380 ※ Can change pancakes to waffles

A mountain of whipped cream sits on the pancakes served at this popular café. The condensed milk strawberry pancake intrigued me for quite while so I decided to order it. 

The plate is stacked with three pancakes, fresh cream and condensed milk. This is then drizzled with strawberry sauce and topped with vanilla ice cream. The pancakes were fluffy and the cream balanced the overall flavour, making it moderately sweet. The sweetness of the condensed milk and the sourness of the strawberry sauce were so delicious that there was no way I could get bored. 

▼ Café Blue

Address: 16-9-12, Minami 3 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo

Access: 5-minute walk from Ropeway iriguchi Station

Opening Hours: 9:00 ー 19:00, (last orders: 18:00) 

Breakfast: 9:00 ー 11:00, lunch/dinner: 10:00 ー 19:00, desserts: 10:00 ー 19:00,

Open all year round.

Official Website: https://cafeblue.exblog.jp/

SHIRAYUKI/Tanuki-Koji 

Fruit Squash: ￥500 each

Shirayuki is located in Tanuki-Koji. The fruit squash here comes in four flavours and each contains popping boba. Today I ordered the Strawberry Squash. Strawberry sauce is drizzled into a cup of carbonated water. Popping boba is then added. The drink is topped with strawberries. 

The bubbles of the carbonated water makes it the perfect way to cool down in the summer. This drink is only available until August 15, so if you want to try it, get there soon.

▼SHIRAYUKI

Address: Shirayuki Sapporo Aiseikan Building, 5 Chome, Minami 1-jo nishi 5, Chuo Ward, Sapporo

Access: Approx. 5-min walk from Odori Subway Station

Opening Hours: 12:30 ー 19:00

No regular holidays

Official Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/shirayuki.hokkaido

So how about it? Kei’s Instagram account is full of desserts and meals that you absolutely must try. If you are going to visit Hokkaido, make sure to check out Kei’s Instagram so you know exactly which restaurant or café you want to visit!

Original article information and photographer: Kei (@607keih)

Looking for some delicious, well presented Japanese souvenirs? Head to Daimaru department store which is adjoined to Tokyo Station. On the first floor and basement floor lies a Japanese-style desserts and sweets area which contains approximately 70 delicious brands. Every day, approximately 30,000 desserts are sold to customers who are looking for souvenirs to bring to their family and friends. 

Now we have arrived at the summer holidays, there are many tourists who will soon reach the stage of panic where they are unsure of what souvenirs to bring back to their loved ones. Luckily, Daimaru Department store is a goldmine of beautifully presented Japanese-style sweet snacks made by top brands. Today, we present you with a list of the 10 fastest-selling souvenirs that were sold from July 2018 to June 2019. There is still plenty of time to get your hands on these souvenirs!

1st Place: N.Y.C. SAND: Caramel Sandwich Biscuits (box of 8) ￥1,080 (1st floor)

 As you take a bite, you will notice that the biscuit, chocolate and caramel will balance in perfect harmony just for a brief glorious moment. 

2nd place: Fukusaya: Fukusaya Cube (Cut into two) ￥270 (1st floor)

Have a small slice of luxury with this traditional recipe castella sponge cake which was specially made by experienced bakers. This is presented in a small, cute box. 

3rd place: Kamakura Toshimaya: Hato Sable (box of 10) ￥1,080 (1st floor)

This is a crispy dove-shaped shortbread biscuit which has a rich buttery flavour. This was first produced in the early 1900’s during the Meiji period and is a souvenir limited to Tokyo.

4th place: Asakusa Mangando: Imokin ￥129 each (1st floor)

This baked treat is packed with the delicious flavour of sweet potatoes. The freshly baked scent is enough to draw you in. 

5th place: TOKYO BANANA STUDIO: Panda Banana Yoghurt (Box of 4) ￥515 (1st/basement floor) 

Children would just love to see the cute panda design. Wrap yourself in the mild banana yoghurt-flavoured cream.

6th place: Noix: Walnut cookie (Box of 4) ￥648 (1st floor)

This crunchy cookie is topped with a generous amount of caramelised walnuts.

7th place: Nenrinya: Mount Baum Shikkarime ￥756 (1st floor)

The outside of this baumkuchen is fragrant and crispy whilst the inside is soft and spongy. Take a bite to experience the wonderful texture of this European-style baked good. 

8th place: Azabujuban Agemochi-ya: Panchetta Agemochi (40g) ￥442 (1st floor)

The flavour of this baked mochi dough is like eating bacon cooked in an Italian style. This new flavour is a wonderful discovery that you should also try.

9th place: Sugar Butter Tree: SUGAR BUTTER SAND TREE (Box of 10) ￥690 (1st floor)

The crispy biscuit and melty white chocolate is a sublime combination that you will want to try again and again.

10th place:  Kanou Shoujuan: Ikkoten ￥270 each (1st floor)

A whole Japanese chestnut is smothered in a thick layer of Tamba Dainagon adzuki bean mix that is simmered lightly. This is especially delicious when eaten with tea. 

What do you think? When in desperate need of a souvenir for your family, friends or work colleagues back home, how about choosing one of the souvenirs listed above?

Hello everyone! This is Midori from MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON.

Candy apples are the staple food of summer festivals. A crunchy candy coating and a sweet, fruity apple is such a divine combination. It can be quite difficult to find candy apples outside of festivals. That’s where Candy Apple steps in. This is a brand new shop on the block that specialises in candy apples!

This is located just a five-minute walk from Shibuya Station’s west exit. If you check out their saved Instagram story, you probably won’t get lost. During the weekdays and on Saturdays, this is an Italian restaurant called Buonappetito. On Sundays, when the restaurant is closed, it transforms into a candy apple shop.

The shop interior is gorgeous.

Plain: ¥600

I ordered the plain apple without wasting any time. This is much larger than what you would usually get at a festival. Although these are usually eaten by immediately sinking your teeth in and biting out a big chunk, you can cut your apple here and enjoy it at your own pace. 

After taking your first bite, you will realise just how different this is to your normal candy apple. The apple is coated in a thin layer of candy, creating a delicious crunch. The apple is fresh, juicy and sweet. Some candy apples are made with mushy apples that are not fresh, however these apples are extremely fresh and delicious right to the last bite. 

These candy apples are full of a variety of flavours.

Cinnamon Sugar: ¥600

The apple with the dusting of beige-coloured powder is cinnamon-flavoured. The sweet cinnamon scent spreads everywhere as soon as you set it on the table. The sweet flavour of the apple and the fragrant cinnamon is a match made in heaven. 

Cocoa: ¥600

The apple covered in the brown powder is cocoa-flavoured. The slightly bitter flavour of the chocolate is a perfect match for the sweet apple. The colour contrast between the brown chocolate and white apple is also beautiful. ♪

Matcha: ¥600

The apple with the green powder is matcha as you may have already guessed! The flavouring of the Uji matcha used for this apple was carefully balanced to maximise the flavour when combined with the apple. After you take your first bite, you just won’t be able to stop. 

Blueberry Yoghurt: ¥600

The bright white dusting on this blueberry yoghurt-flavoured apple is beautiful. The blueberry scent is mild and is perfect with the yoghurt.

Black Cocoa: ¥600

The pitch black colour of the Black Cocoa Candy Apple is very appetizing. The black cocoa is even more bitter than the cocoa apple, which really brings out the flavour of the sweet apple even more.

You can even get chocolate fondue for your candy apple (¥400). By adding the fairly bitter chocolate to your candy apple, you can enjoy three different kinds of sweetness when it mixes with the chocolate, candy and the apple. 

You can even order your candy apple to go, making it the perfect summer souvenir. Taking it home to enjoy is also another wonderful way to make the most of your experience. 

This candy apple shop is only open on Sundays, but you can order to take away on other days. 

This is a flavour that a festival candy apple will never be capable of offering. You can tuck into your apple inside the beautiful shop, or take it home to enjoy at home at your own pace. 

School’s nearly out for summer in Japan with summer break set to begin on July 20. Kids and adults alike can look forward rolling up to Daimaru Tokyo to get their sweet tooth hands on one of five special desserts available at Hoppe Town on the ground and first floor from July 17 to 23.

Let’s take a look at these mouth-watering delights.

Basket Cheesecake (8cm) – ¥400 @ Aoyama Fromage (Floor 1F)

This cheesecake is all the rage in the dessert world this year for its eye-catching black surface. The burnt surface enjoys just the right amount of bitterness and is a perfect match for the soft, rich center.

CAKETALE (6 Included) – ¥648 @ CAKETALE (Floor 1F)

Tuck into one of six different of these different takes which have been turned into cat tongue biscuits. Flavours include strawberry shortcake, cheesecake, mont blanc and more, and they come in some seriously kawaii packaging which looks just like a book.

Tokyo Saku Saku Tiramisu Panda Package (16 Included) – ¥1,080 @ Tokyo Oraikan (Floor 1F)

Sink your teeth into these cute and crunchy rich panda tiramisu cakes♡

Dashi Shoyu (1 Bag) – ¥388 @ Okashi Rakuichi (Floor B1F)

This popular brand with their delicious flavours and cute packaging designs have their own shop in Senju in a low-lying part of the city where the Metropolitan Electric Railway runs through. This is their most popular product, a bag of crunchy soy sauce covered balls with a rich flavour.

Tokyo Lemonche (Includes 8) – ¥1,555 @ Tokyo Lemonche (Floor B1F)

A perfect summer treat, the Tokyo Lemonche is a light and refreshing lemon puff sandwich filled with lemon cream. You can really taste the original flavour of lemon in them.

Make a stop by Daimaru Tokyo this summer if you’re in Japan!