Universal Cool Japan 2020: Attack on Titan, Monster Hunter World, Detective Conan & Lupin III
13.November.2019 | ANIME&GAME / SPOT
It has been announced that Universal Cool Japan 2020 will take place from January 21 to June 28 next year. This year marks the 6th run of UCJ which began in 2015, bringing together the ‘cool’ aspects of Japan enjoyed by the rest of the world, and enjoys immense popularity every year.
Universal Cool Japan 2020 will see four big titles in Japanese entertainment come together. Expect all-new attractions for all-new experiences.
*The Monster Hunter World: Iceborne x USJ attractions will be announced at a later date
Attack on Titan XR Ride
The Attack on Titan manga series has celebrated its 10th anniversary this year. For the first time ever, the series is getting its own XR Ride in which guests will don VR goggles that will transport them into a 360° rendering of the world of Attack on Titan, with life-size Titans appearing before their very eyes. Guests will ride a roller coaster and fly alongside the Survey Corps. If you’ve ever wanted to know what it’s like to soar up high with ODM maneuver gear, now’s your chance.
Running: January 21, 2020 – June 28, 2020
Detective Conan World
Join Conan in the all-improved and revamped Detective Conan World and help him solve cases in Detective Conan: The Escape; ride the new story-filled roller coaster Detective Conan x Hollywood Dream: The Ride which features full voice acting and an immersive plot; run around the park and solve various incidents hands-on with Detective Conan Mystery Challenge; and dine at the Detective Conan Mystery Restaurant.
Running: January 21, 2020 – June 28, 2020
*Full details on the restaurant will be announced at a later date
Lupin the Third: The Live
Lupin the Third made its first appearance at UCJ 2019 and was very well-received. This live show features street live entertainment by real cast members who will perform right before guests. Join Lupin and the characters in the exciting world of the franchise.
Running: January 21, 2020 – June 28, 2020
Monster Hunter World: Iceborne x Universal Studios Japan
The Monster Hunter video game franchise is loved the world over, and is appearing once more at Universal Cool Japan after two years. Use interactive VR technology and go hunting in the world of Iceborne, the hit expansion to Monster Hunter World which has shipped 2.8 million copies worldwide.
Running: Spring 2020 (subject to change)
Image Credit: Universal Studios Japan
HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR. (s19)
Despicable Me, Minion Made and all related marks and characters are trademarks and copyrights of Universal Studios. Licensed by Universal Studios Licensing LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Nintendo properties are trademarks and copyrights of Nintendo. © 2019 Nintendo.
TM & © Universal Studios & Amblin Entertainment
©Hajime Isayama・Kodansha / “Attack on Titan” Production Committee
©2020 Gosho Aoyama / Detective Conan Production Committee
© CRAP All rights reserved.
©Monkey Punch / TMS・NTV
©CAPCOM CO., LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
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Next » Roppongi Hills Christmas Market 2019: Authentic German Food, Christmas Ornaments, Desserts & More
Information
Universal Cool Japan 2020
Running: January 21, 2020 – June 28, 2020
Official Website: https://www.usj.co.jp/universal-cool-japan2020/
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Roppongi Hills Christmas Market 2019: Authentic German Food, Christmas Ornaments, Desserts & More
Christmastime has fallen on Roppongi Hills as it kicked off Roppongi Hills Christmas 2019 on Monday. The event sees the return of the gorgeous Keyakizaka illuminations from last year.
Keyakizaka-dori Street runs almost 400 meters, along which “Snow & Blue” LED lights glow and glisten like frost-covered trees, turning the street into a winter wonderland. For 2019, a very special photo spot has been designed by Japanese illustrator Yu Nagaba as pictured above amongst the ocean of illuminations. Over on the West Walk, passersby will spot a draped Christmas tree.
Starting this Friday (November 15), more illuminations will light up over at Mori Garden, which will reflect enchantingly from the garden lake, and 66 Plaza will be lit up too. All of these illuminations will glow until late in the night, making them a perfect spot for a little evening date.
A Christmas market will take place starting on November 30 which will feature German food and drinks, a shop where you can buy a real fir Christmas tree, and more. And on November 15, restaurants and cafes at Roppongi Hills will adorn their menus with Christmas cakes, sweets, and dinner plans.
Christmas Market 2019
2019 marks the 13th year of the Roppongi Hills Christmas Market, and this year, many of Japan’s leading shops are taking part. The market will recreate the atmosphere and decor of a German Christmas market, with gorgeous decorations lining the roof, as well as the 11 stalls which will sell German-made Christmas sundries, German mulled wine, frankfurter sausages, and more. There will be over 2,000 individual items to find.
Christmas Cakes & Merry Desserts
Top: Christmas Show Girl ¥3,672 / Bottom: Christmas Tree ¥10,800 @ LOLA’S Cupcakes Tokyo
Cafes and restaurants have cooked up various treats for the Christmas season which will be sold between November 15 to December 25, including Christmas cakes to complete your Christmas dinner, desserts so cute they almost seem a waste to eat, and little items perfect to give as gifts. There’s plenty on the menu to be enjoyed with friends, family and loved ones.
Have a very special and merry little Christmas this year at Roppongi Hills.
Information
Roppongi Hills Christmas 2019
Running: November 11, 2019 – December 25, 2019
Locations: Roppongi Hills (Roppongi Keyakizaka-dori, 66 Plaza, West Walk, Roppongi Hills Arena, Rooftop Plaza, and elsewhere)Official Event Page: https://www.roppongihills.com/en/sp/christmas/2019/
Christmas Market 2019
Running: November 30, 2019 – December 25, 2019
Time: 11:00-21:00 (Until 22:00 on Fridays, Saturdays & Christmas Eve)
Location: Rooftop Plaza
Keyakizaka Illuminations
Running: November 11, 2019 – December 25, 2019
Time: 17:00-23:00
Location: Roppongi Keyakizaka-dori
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Witness the Breathtaking Illuminations and Tokyo City Night Lights at Shinagawa Season Terrace Illumination 2019
10.November.2019 | SPOT
Shinagawa Season Terrace Illumination 2019 is set to run from December 1 to 25.
The event will take place at Shinagawa Season Terrace, a towering office building in Tokyo, where the rolling grass lawn will be lit up beautifully with enchanting blue lights. They offer a breathtaking view against the city nightscape of Tokyo’s skyscrapers. Last year’s event saw nearly 17,000 people in attendance.
2019 marks the 4th run of the event, and this year, the long staircase leading up to the lawn will also be lit up, welcoming visitors to see the illuminations from their first step upon arrival. The lights will flicker in 10 different patterns from the first floor (ground floor) up to the second.
Entry is free, and visitors will be able enjoy an unbroken view of the structural spectacle that is Tokyo Tower too. If you’re in Tokyo this December, be sure to mark Shinagawa Season Terrace Illumination 2019 in your calendar for the holiday season.
*Pictured photos are for illustrative purposes only
Information
Shinagawa Season Terrace Illumination 2019
Running: December 1, 2019 – December 25, 2019
Time: 17:00-22:00
Location: Shinagawa Season Terrace (1-2-70 Konan, Minato Ward, Tokyo)
Access: 6 minutes on foot from Shinagawa Station’s Konan Exit (JR Line side)
Entry: Free
Event Website: https://sst-am.com/
*The event will take place if there is light rainfall but will be suspended in the case of stormy weather
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5 Must-Visit Spots in Kyoto For Autumn Scenery: Floor Reflections to Flowery Temple Water Basins
10.November.2019 | SPOT
Kyoto’s autumn hues have enchanted travellers, tourists and locals alike for untold years. Today, we are joined by Macchan, an Instagrammer who has provided us with their incredible photographs of Kyoto’s breathtaking autumnal scenery. Take note of these locations for your next trip!
Wachu-an, Notre Dame Jogakuin Junior and Senior High School
Wachu-an is a merchant and heritage home with a long history dating back to the early days of the Showa Period (1926–1989). It’s normally off-limits to the public, but opens during autumntime for everyone to visit. This year, it will be open from November 22 to December 1.
Trickling away in the large gardens is a small river, and enveloped in the gorgeous greenery connected to a passage on the slant of the foothill is the reception hall and a western-style house. When autumn rolls around, visitors enjoy the beautifully polished veranda of the Japanese-style room together with the floor of the western-style building which reflects the surrounding sights beautifully.
Wachu-an, Notre Dame Jogakuin Junior and Senior High School
Autumn Opening: November 22, 2019 – December 1, 2019
Time: 10:00-16:00
Address: 110 Shishigatani Sakuradanicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto
Price: ¥600 (Discount for groups of 15+) / Free for junior high school students and younger
Access:
① 9 minutes on foot from the “Shinnyodomae” or “Kinrin Shako Mae” bus stops via the Kyoto City Bus 5 from Kyoto Station
② 7 minutes on foot from “Miyanomaecho” bus stop via the Kyoto City Bus 100 from Kyoto Station
③ 9 minutes on foot from the “Shinnyodomae” or “Kinrin Shako Mae” bus stops via the Kyoto City Bus 93 or 204 from Jingū-Marutamachi Station (Keihan Electric Railway)
④ 5 minutes on foot from the “Kami Miyanomaecho” bus stop via the Kyoto City Bus 32 from Kyoto-kawaramachi Station (Hankyu Railway)
⑤ 9 minutes on foot from the “Shinnyodomae” or “Kinrin Shako Mae” bus stops via the Kyoto City Bus 203 from Kyoto-kawaramachi Station (Hankyu Railway)
Yokokuji Temple
Yanagidani Kannon, also known as Yokokuji Temple, is holding the event “Yanagidani Kannon Autumn Colours Week” from November 2 to December 1. It includes special access to the Joshoin which is normally closed to the public, workshops, flower decorations at the temple’s purifying water basin, and more.
Enjoy the beautiful natural landscape surrounding the temple, dyed in the red and yellow hues of autumn. For more details on this event, click here.
Yanagidani Kannon Autumn Colours Week
Running: November 2, 2019 – December 1, 2019
Time: 9:00-16:00 (Joshoin open 10:00-15:00)
Location: Yanagidani Kannon, Yokokuji Temple (Dōnotani-2 Jōdodani, Nagaokakyo, Kyoto)
Entry Price: ¥300
Full Ticket: ¥1,100→¥1,100 (Includes entry to multiple areas)
Access: 15 minutes by taxi from Nagaokakyo Station (JR Line) / 10 minutes by taxi from Nishiyama Tennozan Station
Official Website: http://yanagidani.jp/
Shinnyo-dō Temple (Shinshōgokuraku-ji)
Shinnyo-dō Temple is a famous sightseeing spot during autumn as tourists and locals flock to see autumn fall around the ancient structure. From mid-November, the maple and ginkgo trees blossom from their beautiful buds along the stone path leading up to the temple.
The three-storied pagoda is a sight to behold during this time of the year, as is the carpet of fallen leaves behind the main temple which symbolises the curtain call of autumn. On average, the autumn foliage can be observed until early December here every year.
Shinnyo-dō Temple (Shinshōgokuraku-ji)
Address: 82 Jōdoji Shinnyochō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
Opening Hours: 9:00-16:00 (Reception open until 15:45)
*Restricted access to the garden and Shoin on November 10 and December 8
Price: ¥1,000 (¥900 for elementary school children, free for those younger)
Access:
①Take the Kyoto City Bus 5, 17 or 100 bound for Ginkaku-ji (銀閣寺行き) from Kyoto Station and alight at Kinrin Shako Mae from which it is an 8 minute walk
Official Website: https://shin-nyo-do.jp/
Konzoji Temple
This quiet little mountain temple sits tucked away halfway up the mountain known as Koshioyama. The temple as it is today was restored in the Edo Period. It’s a popular hiking spot amongst travellers as it offers a panoramic view of the Kyoto Basin (京都盆地), but it also attracts a lot of visitors during the autumn season.
The reflection of the autumn foliage from the water is nothing short of breathtaking. The hike up is tiring, but worth it, so if you’ve the stamina we highly recommend putting this one on your list. You won’t be disappointed.
Konzoji Temple
Address: 1639 Ōharano Ishizukurichō, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
Donation Fee: ¥200
Access:
①Take the Hankyu Bus 65 from Mukōmachi Station (JR Tōkaidō Main Line) or Higashi-Mukō Station (Hankyu Railway) and get off at the last stop, Minamikasugacho (南春日町), after about 25 minutes. It’s then a 60-70 minute walk from there.
②Board the Keihan Kyoto Bus at the East Exit of Katsura Station that is bound for Oharano & Nagamine (大原野・長峰). Get off at the last stop, Nagamine, and it’s a 50-60 minute walk.
Byodoin Temple
Byodoin Temple, listed as a World Heritage Site, is also a popular spot in the fall. You can take some spectacular photos of the temple from across the lake. The height of the autumn foliage this year is late November to early December.
There is more information on the foliage dates on the official website, so be sure to check it out before visiting at the link below.
Byodoin Temple
Address: Renge-116 Uji, Kyoto
Price: General ¥600 / Junior High School Students ¥400 / Elementary School Students ¥300 (*Includes garden and Byodoin Museum access)
Access:
①10 minutes on foot from Uji Station via the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station
②10 minutes on foot from Uji Station via the Keihan Main Line from Gion-Shijo Station
Foliage Info: https://www.byodoin.or.jp/flower/
Official Website: https://www.byodoin.or.jp/
If you want more information about Kyoto on the best spots to visit, be sure to follow Macchan on Instagram.
Photos: Macchan
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Universal Studios Japan Announces Easter Universal Celebration 2021
13.January.2021 | SPOT
Universal Studios Japan is set to spring into Easter starting on March 12 with the announcement of Universal Easter Celebration 2021. This year, which marks the 20th anniversary since USJ opened, will see the park’s cute and iconic characters once again lull guests into an unforgettable Easter dream at Universal Wonderland and Minion Park.
Universal Easter Celebration
USJ will see colourful pastel decorations cover the Universal Wonderland and Minion Park areas, and the characters too will be dressed in their seasonal Easter costumes. A special Easter rendition of the Wonderland Seasons Joy show will also take place to commemorate the park’s 20th anniversary with song and dance.
Wonderland Seasons Joy ~Easter Ver.~
Minion Park Easter
The park will also introduced a special egg hunt after Elmo and the Minions dropped some of their eggs. If you manage to find them all you get a limited-edition gold medal. USJ is also taking the Easter festivities online too with a special celebratory live stream called Let’s Cooking! Kawaii Easter Party
WIZARDING WORLD and all related trademarks, characters, names, and indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. (s21) Minions and all related elements and indicia TM & © 2021 Universal Studios. All rights reserved. TM & © 2021 Sesame Workshop © 2021 Peanuts Worldwide LLC TM & © Universal Studios & Amblin Entertainment Universal Studios Japan TM & © Universal Studios. All rights reserved.
© Nintendo
Information
Universal Easter Celebration
Running: March 12, 2021 – June 27, 2021
Location: Universal Studios Japan
Official Website: https://www.usj.co.jp/web/en/us -
Attack on Titan to Conclude in Bessatsu Shōnen Magazine This April
08.January.2021 | ANIME&GAME
The 33rd volume of the global hit manga series Attack on Titan was released on January 8, 2021, with the 34th and final volume to hit shelves on June 9. The final chapter will debut in the May 2021 issue of Bessatsu Shōnen Magazine which will be released in Japan on April 9. The internationally-celebrated series will finally come to an end after 11-and-a-half years since its debut in September 2009.
Hajime Isayama (Attack on Titan, Author) | Comment
“I’ve been saying the series will end in 3 years for the past 8 years, but now it really is coming to an end. It’s been a really long time, but I hope you’ll join me right up until the end. By no means is it the fault of being delayed by the editorial team, but rather me these last years continuing to wonder when to end it. I’m sorry for that, but the end is finally here. I will work hard to the very end to ensure that you are all glad you have read the series up to now.”
Information
Attack on Titan
Final Chapter: April 9, 2021 in the May 2021 issue of Bessatsu Shōnen Magazin
Final Volume: Volume 34 on June 9, 2021
Official Website: https://shonenmagazine.com/bmaga -
Super Nintendo World Releases Virtual Tour of Entire Theme Park Area
07.January.2021 | ANIME&GAME / SPOT
Universal Studios Japan (USJ) announced last month that its highly-anticipated new Super Nintendo World area will open on February 4, 2021, which also happens to fall on the day of USJ’s 20th anniversary.
Super Nintendo World comes as the world’s first theme park area to be based around Nintendo’s characters and games, combining innovative ideas with cutting-edge technology.
With just one month left until the grand opening, USJ has launched a special website for Super Nintendo World which offers a virtual tour through each part of the new theme park area. Mario fanatics are sure to be delighted by the adornments from Bowser’s Castle to Pipes, Mushrooms, Question blocks, and more, as well as familiar faces like Goombas, Thwomps, Yoshi—the list goes on.
Accessing the site will bring you to an overview of the map. As you scroll down the website takes you on a virtual journey to each of its iconic attractions, all of which are designed to make you feel like you’re really in the world of Super Mario.
Information
Universal Studios Japan – Super Nintendo World
Grand Opening: February 4, 2021
Virtual Tour: https://super-nintendo-world.usj.co.jp/
Official Website: https://www.usj.co.jp/web/en/us/super-nintendo-world -
Attack on Titan The Final Season Episode 1 Becomes The Most Viewed Episode in The Anime’s History
25.December.2020 | ANIME&GAME
In December, NHK General TV started broadcasting Attack on Titan The Final Season, capturing the hearts of fans worldwide.
The Final Season contains 60 episodes and episode 1 ranked in at 1st place on MyAnimeList – an online forum that is popular among anime fans from around the world. The episode has also been recorded to be the most-watched episode in the history of Attack on Titan. Anime fans from around the world also rated the anime at the very top end of the grading scale with an overall average of 9.06/10.
French entertainment and online anime streaming company Wakanim was also trending at number one on Twitter because of the anime. In comparison to the 1st episode of season 3, The Final Season had 14 times more views, getting it off to an overwhelming start.
In just 17 days of uploading the official creditless anime opening Boku no Sensou by Shinsei Kamattechan on YouTube, it was viewed more than 12 million times. 40 percent of the views were from Japan whereas the majority were from America, Indonesia, Taiwan, France and other foreign countries. The comment section was also overflowing with love towards the anime from fans from around the world.
Attack on Titan The Final Season Creditless Opening
The whole world just can’t get enough of Attack on Titan The Final Season. Don’t miss out on this global sensation!
©Hajime Isayama, Kodansha Ltd., Attack on Titan The Final Season Production Committee
Information
Attack on Titan The Final Season
NHK General TV every Sunday from 24:10
*The broadcasting schedule is subject to change at any time.
The Final Season Official Website: https://shingeki.tv/final/ -
Attack on Titan The Final Season Escape Game Announced at TOKYO MYSTERY CIRCUS
10.December.2020 | ANIME&GAME / SPOT
SCRAP has announced the release of a new escape game at TOKYO MYSTERY CIRCUS, Japan’s biggest puzzle-themed theme park, in promotion of the final season of Attack on Titan which is now airing. Set to begin on February 25, 2021, the escape game is titled “Escape Game x Attack on Titan The Final Season: Escape From the 5 Titans.”
This marks the fifth Attack on Titan themed escape game to be held. Players will become a member of the Survey Corps and worked with Levi, Mikasa, and other characters to face off against five Titans. The immersive story will have players feeling like they are really in the world of the anime series.
The key to this escape game is the map provided to players which they must used together with other items to assemble a diorama map of Marley. They will then use their completed diorama to their advantage in order to escape.
The escape game is a celebration and mark of Attack on Titan’s final season and a must-experience for fans in Japan.
©SCRAP
©諫山創・講談社/「進撃の巨人」The Final Season製作委員会」Information
Escape Game x Attack on Titan The Final Season: Escape From the 5 Titans
Location: TOKYO MYSTERY CIRCUS
Running: Febrauary 25, 2021 – April 25, 2021Nazo Complex Nagoya
March 25, 2021 – April 25, 2021
June 30, 2021 – July 25, 2021Osaka Himitsukichi Of Scrap
May 13, 2021 – June 27, 2021Ajito Of Scrap Sapporo
July 2, 2021 – August 1, 2021Ajito Of Scrap Sendai
April 29, 2021 – June 13, 2021Ajito Of Scrap Okayama
April 29, 2021 – May 30, 2021Nishitetsu Hall Fukuoka
April 29, 2021 – May 5, 2021Event Website: https://realdgame.jp/shingeki_2021/
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Attack on Titan The Final Season’s Opening Theme Performed by Shinsei Kamattechan
07.December.2020 | ANIME&GAME / MUSIC
The final season of Attack on Titan is finally here, with the first episode having aired in Japan on Sunday (December 6). The anime’s opening theme Boku no Sensō (‘My War’) is performed by Shinsei Kamattechan who also performed the season two ending theme Yūgure no Tori. The final season’s ending theme Shōgeki is performed by Yūko Andō.
Attack on Titan The Final Season – Creditless Opening
The opening theme Boku no Sensō is a chaotic banger fitting for the highly-anticipated finale of Attack on Titan. The TV-size version of the track will be released on digital music platforms in Japan on December 8. It is unconfirmed whether it will be available outside Japan, so be sure to check.
Hajime Isayama (Attack on Titan author) | Comment
“I’m over the moon for Shinsei Kamattechan to be doing the opening theme, I’m a huge fan of them. They have so many songs where the more I listen to them the more obsessed I become. ‘Boku no Sensō’ is just that. The scope of their imagination in that song is clear to see. I feel sacred* listening to this track too. I love the song, it’s packed with imagination.”
*Translator’s Note: The name of the band is Shinsei Kamattechan, with shinsei meaning ‘sacred’ in Japanese.
Noko (Shinsei Kamattechan, Lead Vocalist) | Comment
“Attack on Titan and Shinsei Kamattechan both come from a similar place in that we’re grand in our scale. We performed the season two ending theme ‘Yūgure no Tori’ before, and like with that, we’ve been able to bring that scale to ‘Boku no Sensō’ too. We wanted to make something new as a band. We’ve always composed at home, but our imaginations really ran this time around. We’re proud of what we’ve been able to create with this song. And we’re grateful to all of the [anime] staff, not to mention [Hajime] Isayama. Japanese lyrics are included in the full version of the song, so I hope you look forward to hearing the full version. You’ll get the entirety of what the song’s about.”
©諫山創・講談社/「進撃の巨人」The Final Season製作委員会
Information
Boku no Sensō
Released: December 8, 2020
Download/Stream Here: https://lnk.to/BokunoSensou_TVSize
Shinsei Kamattechan Official Website: https://shinseikamattechan.jp/Attack on Titan The Final Season
Initial Broadcast: December 6, 2020
Official Website: https://shingeki.tv/final/ -
Attack on Titan The Final Season’s Episode 1 Outline Officially Teased in Japan
04.December.2020 | ANIME&GAME
Episode 1 of the upcoming highly-anticipated final season of Attack on Titan is set to air on December 6, 2020. The outline for this first episode has been officially teased by the staff which we have translated below.
Attack on Titan The Final Season – Episode 1 Outline
The title of the episode is Umi no Mukougawa (The Other Side of the Ocean). A great battle has begun between humanity and the Titans. Just how much time has passed? On the other side of the ocean, where Eren Jaeger has arrived, the war continues with no end in sight. Who are they fighting, and what are they fighting for? A single soldier prepares himself to throw himself into the front lines.
A 15-minute digest video in Japanese was also uploaded to Pony Canyon’s official YouTube channel which summarises the first three seasons of the anime series for those who need a refresher.
Attack on Titan 15-Minute Digest Video
To promote The Final Season, a special live broadcast will air on Pony Canyon’s YouTube page which will feature appearances by Eren, Mikasa, and Armins’ voice actors Yuki Kaji, Yui Ishikawa, and Marina Inoue respectively.The original Survey Corps members will come together to discuss their anticipations before the anime airs the following day.
The Final Season is almost here. Are you ready?
©Hajime Isayama・Kodansha / Attack on Titan The Final Season Production Committee
Information
Attack on Titan The Final Season
Initial Broadcast: December 6, 2020
Official Website: https://shingeki.tv/final/ -
Super Nintendo World Theme Park Area to Open at Universal Studios Japan in February 2021
01.December.2020 | ANIME&GAME / SPOT
Universal Studios Japan (USJ) has announced that its highly-anticipated new Super Nintendo World area will open on February 4, 2021, which also happens to fall on the day of USJ’s 20th anniversary.
Super Nintendo World comes as the world’s first theme park area to be based around Nintendo’s characters and games, combining innovative ideas with cutting-edge technology.
While the grand opening is still a couple of months away, USJ is teasing fans by unveiling a portion of the park’s Mario Kart-themed ride which takes place inside of a reconstructed Bowser’s Castle.
Bowser’s Castle
Bowser’s Castle stands as one of the main symbols of Super Nintendo World. It’s a faithful recreation with towering stone walls, thick and heavy steel doors, pointed iron fencing, and more, not to mention the enormous stone Bowser statue that adorns the middle of the winding staircase ready to greet guests. There are plenty of thrills and chills to look forward to inside the castle of the King Koopa himself.
Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge will open as the world’s first theme park ride centred on the popular video game series Mario Kart.
Thomas Garrity (Universal Creative, Executive Producer) | Comment
“Deep inside Bowser’s Castle lies Mario Kart: Bowser’s Castle, a collaborative effort between Nintendo and Universal Studio’s Creative Team to recreate the world of the hugely popular Mario Kart series which has sold over 150 million copies. Guests will put on their headsets and experience limitless excitement and thrills as they speed around courses.” (Translated from Japanese by MMN)
Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge is an XR ride that lets people feel like they are inside the world of Mario Kart while in the real world. The ride will feature all the details fans of the video game series are familiar with as they drift and spin around exciting courses alongside the game’s characters while collecting items from boxes to use on their opponents.
The attraction makes use of AR and projection mapping technology to make the game as immersive as possible. Fans are sure to love driving through their favourite courses and scenes recreated using leading-edge technology. The attraction is six years in the making and the results of efforts between Nintendo’s Creative Team, USJ, and the legendary Shigeru Miyamoto himself.
Endless fun for fans of Mario
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD will be the first-ever multilevel Nintendo-themed area at USJ, and the first of its kind in the world. Fans of the internationally beloved games can expected to see a whole host of rides and attractions dedicated to their favourite characters, from Mario Kart to Yoshi and beyond, as well as a themed cafe, merchandise shops—the list goes on. There is endless amount of fun for fans to feel a part of the Nintendo world as they take up the role of Mario and hit blocks to receive coins, collect items, and much more.
Guests will be able to purchase the Power Up Band, a wristband that works together with a smartphone app that allows you to collect virtual coins by punching Questions Blocks like Mario which are scattered around the park. Scores can be seen on the leaderboard so you can see how you stack up against other players.
Information
Universal Studios Japan – Super Nintendo World
Grand Opening: February 4, 2021
Official Website: https://www.usj.co.jp/web/en/us/super-nintendo-world -
Review: Universal Studios Japan Spreads the Christmas Cheer With Their Special Winter Program
15.November.2020 | SPOT
Universal Studios Japan (USJ) has planned a special series of Christmas events for this year to celebrate everyone’s endeavours throughout this tumultuous 2020. Celebrations began on November 13 and are set to run through to December 27. The amusement park held a press preview on November 12 which allowed early access..
The ceremony opening this year’s Christmas season sees popular characters and the entertainers dressed in Christmas garbs fitting for the holiday season. Guests can feel safe as they enjoy the festivities with all of the necessary social distancing measures in place.
This year, USJ introduces new events including “Happy Christmas Street Party” and the romantic singing show “New York Christmas Wish.” Guests can also purchase one of the park’s special Happy Deco Mask stickers for their face masks. It’s an exciting time at USJ this holiday season as the characters and entertainers dance and sing for guests to deliver the Christmas wish for 2020.
A special stage was set up for the press preview for an exclusive opening ceremony. It took place at Delancey Street in the New York area of USJ where the Despicable Me Minions, Elmo, Snoopy, Hello Kitty, and other characters dressed up alongside snowmen and entertainers. The characters encouraged guests to sing and dance along to Christmas songs in a COVID-safe environment, bringing smiles to all who attended like a true Christmas party. The performance ended with a blast of confetti in Christmas colours, and everyone posed their best pose of positivity to spread some Christmas cheer to all in attendance.
Sticking on an assortment of USJ’s Christmas Deco Mask stickers onto face masks made wearing them fun.
Smiles are sure to be abound at USJ this year as they always are. For more information, be sure to check out our other article here as well as the park’s official website.
WIZARDING WORLD and all related trademarks, characters, names, and indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. (s20)
Minions and all related elements and indicia TM & © 2020 Universal Studios. All rights reserved.
© Nintendo
TM & © 2020 Sesame Workshop
© 2020 Peanuts Worldwide LLC
© 1976, 1999, 2020 SANRIO CO., LTD. APPROVAL NO. EJ0110601
TM & © Universal Studios & Amblin Entertainment
TM & © Universal Studios. All rights reserved.Information
Universal Studios Japan Christmas Program
Running: November 13, 2020 – December 7, 2020
Address: 2-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana-ku, Osaka
Official Website: https://www.usj.co.jp/web/en/us
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Attack on Titan The Final Season Themed Cafe to Open in Ikebukuro
11.November.2020 | ANIME&GAME / FOOD
Two branches of Animate Cafe, Animate Cafe Ikebukuro 3 and Animated Cafe Nagoya 2, are set to collaborate with Attack on Titan from November 25 in promotion of the anime’s upcoming final season which will begin airing on December 7. This marks Animate Cafe’s fourth collaboration with the anime.
Menu
Animate Cafe held a poll amongst customers who dined at the previous Attack on Titan collaboration cafes to find out what the most popular dishes were. These have been chosen to go on the menu for this collaboration.
5 Years Colossal Hamburger & Mother’s Handmade Stew | ¥1,000
Eren Meringue & Bertholdt Tart | ¥750
Hange’s Experiment Drink | ¥600
Eren’s Death Wish Drink | ¥600New additions to the menu include Hange’s Experiment Drink and Eren’s Death Wish Drink.
The Final Season Special Rose Cake | ¥750
Gorgeous Champagne Jelly | ¥600Original merchandise
Big Acrylic Stands (4 Designs) | ¥1,600
Trading Pins (A Group: 6 Designs/B Group: 7 Designs/C Group: 4 Designs) | ¥400 Each
Print Cookies | ¥1,000 Each (Comes with 1 illustration card)©️Hajime Isayama・Kodansha / Attack on Titan The Final Season Production Committee
Information
Animate Cafe x Attack on Titan The Final Season
Running: November 25, 2020 – December 14, 2020Locations: Animate Cafe Ikebukuro 3 / Animated Cafe Nagoya
*On November 25, November 27, and weekends, customers must sign up to dine at the cafes – those who sign up will be selected randomly. On all other days, it’s free-entry where you don’t have to book, but keep in mind that the cafe may still be busy on these days.
Official Website: https://cafe.animate.co.jp/event/shingeki2011/ -
Attack on Titan Unveils Additional Voice Cast Members as The Final Season Draws Near
04.November.2020 | ANIME&GAME
Attack on Titan The Final Season is set to premiere on NHK General TV on December 6, 2020 at 12:10am. The characters and cast members of the Marley warriors who will face-off against Eren and friends have been unveiled.
Warrior cadets Falco Grice and Gabi Braun will be voiced by Natsuki Hanae and Ayane Sakura respectively. Udo will be voiced by Ayumu Murase, Zofia by Yūmi Kawashima, Colt Grice by Masaya Matsukaze, Pieck by Manami Numakura, and Porco Galliard by Toshiki Masuda.
The anime is set to be streamed on a number of services. You can check the full list of available services on Attack on Titan The Final Season‘s Official Website.*
*Japanese only
‘Attack on Titan The Final Season’ Trailer
Fans just can’t miss the intense face-off between Eren and friends and the Marley warriors. There’s not much longer to wait now.
©Hajime Isayama, Kodansha Ltd./Attack on Titan Production Committee
Information
Attack on Titan The Final Season
NHK General TV NHK from December 6, 2020 at 12:10am*Broadcasting dates and times are subject to change
‘The Final Season’ Official Website: https://shingeki.tv/final/
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Monster Hunter Live-Action Film Starring Milla Jovovich Reveals Key Visual
04.November.2020 | ANIME&GAME / MOVIE
The poster and key visual for the upcoming film Monster Hunter has been released. The film is set to be released in the United States on December 30, 2020, and it was revealed last week that the film will be released in Japan on March 26, 2021.
Monster Hunter is a video game franchise which first launched in 2004. Sixteen years on, the series has sold over 64 million units (as of June 30, 2020), making it Capcom’s second best-selling video game series after Resident Evil. The latest entry to the franchise, Monster Hunter: World, has shipped over 16.1 million copies (as of June 30, 2020), boasting as the best-selling game in Capcom’s history.
The film is being produced, written and directed by Paul W. S. Anderson who is best known for his work on the Resident Evil film series. It stars Milla Jovovich (Resident Evil film series) as Captain Natalie Artemis, Tony Jaa as The Hunter, and Clifford “T.I.” Harris, Jr. as Link.
Monster Hunter Japanese key visual
Sony Pictures describes the film: “Behind our world, there is another: a world of dangerous and powerful monsters that rule their domain with deadly ferocity. When an unexpected sandstorm transports Captain Artemis (Milla Jovovich) and her unit (TI Harris, Meagan Good, Diego Boneta) to a new world, the soldiers are shocked to discover that this hostile and unknown environment is home to enormous and terrifying monsters immune to their firepower. In their desperate battle for survival, the unit encounters the mysterious Hunter (Tony Jaa), whose unique skills allow him to stay one step ahead of the powerful creatures. As Artemis and Hunter slowly build trust, she discovers that he is part of a team led by the Admiral (Ron Perlman). Facing a danger so great it could threaten to destroy their world, the brave warriors combine their unique abilities to band together for the ultimate showdown.”
The film will be released in 2D, IMAX 3D, MX4D, 4DX, and Dolby Cinema. Fans of the Resident Evil film series are sure to be excited to see Paul W. S. Anderson and Milla Jovovich come together once again.
A new game, Monster Hunter Rise, has been announced for Nintendo Switch and will be released on March 26, 2021.
© Constantin Film Verleih GmbH
©CAPCOM CO., LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Information
Monster Hunter (Film)
Release Date: December 30, 2020 (US) / March 26, 2021 (Japan)
Official Website: https://www.monsterhunter.movie/
Monster Hunter Rise
Release Date: March 26, 2021
Platform: Nintendo Switch™
Official Website: https://www.monsterhunter.com/rise/