BAKE Inc., a confectionery company that manages the freshly-baked cheese tart chain BAKE CHEESE TART and cream puff chain CROQUANTCHOU ZAKUZAKU, has announced the launching of a new brand.

Named “OIMON,” the brand will specialise in creating sweets made from local sweet potatoes, with the first branch opening at the new Gohobi Street zone inside Amu Plaza Kagoshima, a shopping complex connected directly to the JR side of Kagoshima-Chūō Station, on March 13, 2020.

What is OIMON?

OIMON is a new shop specialising in sweet potato confectionery whose concept is “Tradition x Innovation.” Its first branch is opening in Kagoshima, a prefecture that produces sweet potatoes and shochu from its warm climate. These traditional ingredients and methods will be combined with both Kagoshima’s contemporary food and food culture and BAKE Inc.’s design, flavours and preparation methods to create a new kind of local Kagoshima confectionery

Sweet potato cakes aplenty with Kagoshima flavour

Freshly-Baked Mini Mikan Sweet Potato Cake: Single Serving – ¥237 / Box of 5 – ¥1,188 / Box of 10 – ¥2,376 (Tax Included)

Freshly prepared in-store, you can pick from a single serving as well as a box of 5 or 10. The mini sweet potato cakes are inspired by gane, something taken from traditional Kagoshima cuisine. Gane refers to julienned sweet potatoes, but it also means “crab” in the Kagoshima dialect because the way it’s cut looks like a crab. The sliced sweet potatoes are wrapped and baked in a sweet potato paste to bite-size pieces.

The cakes are also soaked in caramel sauce, and their surface lathered in “Kosama Gin,” a craft gin made using lots of mikan oranges grown on Sakurajima in Kagoshima. Enjoy the delicious milky taste of the caramel coupled with the crunchy gane texture. The sweet potato paste is laced with powder made from the mikan oranges, adding a fresh and fruity flavour.

OIMON will promote Kagoshima to the rest of Japan

The brand colouring is a mix of beige and pink, reminiscent of Japanese sweet potatoes. OIMON went for a minimalist design to convey the simplicity of sweet potatoes. The logo is made up of round slices, also like round slices of sweet potato. The entire design conveys the fact that this is something from and exclusive to Kagoshima.

Japanese fruit tart masters Qu’il Fait Bon is promoting the upcoming London National Gallery Exhibition, which is set to arrive at Tokyo’s National Museum of Western Art on March 3, 2020, with the release of two new art-inspired tarts, which will be available at Qu’il Fait Bon from the same day.

The National Gallery in London is a world famous art museum that houses countless artworks from across the generations. The museum is well-known for its collection of high quality European paintings, and the first time ever, it’s taking 61 these works for large scale exhibitions in Tokyo and Osaka this year.

Orange & Mango Tart – “Sunflowers”

One Piece – ¥736

Whole Tart (25cm) – ¥7,365

This first tart is inspired by Vincent van Gogh’s famous Sunflowers series. The beautifully layered floral dessert contains matcha and honey flavoured almond cream, mango pudding, fresh orange and mango pieces, and meringue. The honey used is Bulgarian sunflower honey. Together with the beautiful, swirling meringue and the cross-section of the sliced cake, the tart strongly depicts Gogh’s gorgeous Sunflowers work.

Available:

Qu’il Fait Bon (Grand Maison Ginza) / Serving: March 3, 2020 – Mid April 2020

Qu’il Fait Bon (Grand Front Osaka) / August 11, 2020 – Mid September 2020

Green Fruit & Peach Mousse Tart – “The Water Lily Pond”

One Piece – ¥732

Whole Tart (25cm) – ¥7,322

The second tart is themed on Claude Monet’s The Water Lily Pond. A lily bed of fresh fruits sip atop a peach mousse, which has a gentle fragrance.

Available:

Qu’il Fait Bon (Grand Maison Ginza) / Serving: April 8, 2020 – Mid May 2020

Qu’il Fait Bon (Grand Front Osaka) / July 7, 2020 – Mid August 2020

Make a day of art by heading to the London National Gallery Exhibition and finishing it off with a delicious artistic tart at Qu’il Fait Bon.

Disney princesses around the world won’t be able to resist the nine new cupcakes released at Ginza Cozy Corner last week in Japan.

The cupcake collection is being released to celebrate Hinamatsuri, a festival held annually in Japan on March 3, which prays for the well-being and healthy maturity of girls. The line-up can be enjoyed by child and adult Disney fans alike, and includes not only Disney princesses, but other female characters in the Disney cast. This includes Minnie Mouse, Belle, Snow White, Cinderella, Aurora, Ariel, Jasmine, and more.

Disney Girl’s Collection (Contains 9) – ¥2,700 (Tax Included)

These cute cupcakes look like they have come straight out of a Disney character toy box. They not only look pretty, but sound delicious too, like the raspberry Minnie cupcake, lemon-flavoured Belle cake, cheesecake Cinderella, and more.

Celebrate Hinamatsuri in Disney-style by picking up a box of these cupcakes at Ginza Cozy Corner.

One thing I do at least once a week without fail is treat myself out to some delicious food or dessert. I find it very important time well spent in order to live a happy, fulfilling life.

This week, a business trip took me out of Tokyo to the city of Ise in Mie Prefecture. When the trip was over, I had some spare time to kill before my train arrived, so I went inside a cafe called Kinoshita Chaen which is close to Ise Grand Shrine.

You can arrive at Kinoshita Chaen in just three minutes on foot is walking from Ise Grand Shrine, or five mintues from Ise Station. The exterior design of the building takes on a Western style, which I found to be both cute and retro. You can feel the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the cafe as soon as you step inside. The decor is decked out with all things wooden.

The cafe has been around since the Meiji Period. It serves drinks and desserts all made using tea, and offers both eat-in and takeout services.

I ordered their seasonal-exclusive parfait. 90% of the people in there were ordering it, so I thought it must be popular!

Strawberry & Parfait Puree Parfait w/ Japanese Black Tea – ¥1,300 (Tax Included)

This super cute parfait is completely stuffed to the top with strawberries♡

You can snap cute photos of it no matter the angle♡

When I spooned the caramel puree, soft custard reveal itself. You get a delicious pairing of the bitter flavour and crunchy texture of the caramel with the subtly sweet custard.

The next ingredient to show itself was the mascarpone cream, which combines with the rest of the flavours perfectly. Once your mouth is satisfied with the sweetness of the flavour combinations, you’re next met with Ise matcha gelato.

The matcha gelato is a great palate cleanser for the sweet ingredients when eaten on its own. When eaten together with the sweet puree, you get a completely different kind of delicious flavour. I recommend trying it together with the puree, mascarpone cream, and the crunchy pie which is the next layer.

Moving on from the sweetness and bitterness, the next layer is fresh strawberry sherbet, which is a combination of sweet and sour. To finish, you’re brought back to the subtle sweetness once more with white chocolate mousse, strawberries, and mixed berry jelly.

The final bites of a parfait can generally be hard to get down because you grow tired of the flavour, but the ones sold at Kinoshita Chaen are on another level. The various flavours and textures mean you won’t grow tired as you spoon through the many layersーyou’ll find yourself savouring every last bite.

The Japanese black tea that came with it was luxurious. The cafe actually caters the type of tea they serve to each seasonal parfait. Enjoy a cup together with your parfait.

Matcha Soy Flour Dumpling Cream – ¥830

I didn’t get to order them this time, but I’m really taken by the matcha soy flour shiratama dumplings… The dumplings are made in-house and are topped with brown sugar syrup from Okinawa and Ise matcha. The bitterness of the matcha together with the rich sugar syrup is sure to be delicious with some chewy dumplings. I’ll definitely be trying them when I next visit.

I cannot recommend a trip to Kinoshita Chaen enough. Offering an exemplary menu of Ise flavours, their drinks and sweets maintain the culture and tradition of Japanese tea while keeping up to date with current trends in the world of sweets.

Today’s Souvenir

Houjicha Teabags – ¥400 (1 Pack) 

On the days you get to eat delicious sweets, you’ve got to share the happiness with friends and family. I bought some houjicha tea bags made with tea leaves grown in Mie Prefecture. They have various other teas too, and the packaging is really cute, so they’re perfect as gifts for friends and family.

The new “Food & Gift Area” at Roppongi Hills is set to open in the North Tower on Floor B1F on April 10 where you can get your hands on a huge range of exclusive gifts and souvenirs, as well as quick and delicious food. It will house a total of 19 stores; that’s 12 shops selling Japanese confections and other picks perfect as gifts to yourself or someone else, and 7 eateries offering takeout and eat-in options.

In the gift area, 12 storesーa mix of new establishments as well as well-known businesses setting up shop in Tokyo for the first timeーwill open their doors, such as the New Style Ginza Sembikiya cafe, Kashi no Kirokujo which sells exquisite cakes that are hard to get your hands on, and more. And there’s a whole range of Roppongi Hills exclusives too, like artistic yokan sweet bean jelly inspired by Tokyo’s streets, castella with the Roppongi Hills logo on it, senbei rice crackers, assorted sliced mochiーthe list goes on.

Gift Area – Roppongi Hill Exclusives

Tokyo Enbo – ¥4,320 (Tax Included) @ Wagashi Yui

Recreated are the landmarks of Tokyo in the morning sun, with the beautiful silhouettes of the city’s skyrise buildings formed into sweet bean jelly. Try and find Roppongi Hills in this picturesque perfection.

Ukeian Castella Wasanbon – ¥2,160 (Tax Included) @ Ukeian

This castella cake is made rich and moist thanks to the eggs laid by specially-bred chickens. It’s made with wasanbon fine-grained Japanese sugar,  which gives it a tantalizing smell. The logo stands out too, giving it a beautiful appearance in addition to the delicious flavour.

Roppongi Hills Sanmaido (5 Included) – ¥702 (Tax Included) @ Ginza Matsuzaki Senbei

The senbei rice crackers have a gentle flavour, handcrafted one by one by the shop’s master chefsーincluding the Roppongi Hills logo design of these tile-shaped rice crackersーby adding eggs and sugar to wheat flour.

Kinanomiya Sando (Exclusive Packaging/3 Included) – ¥540 (Tax Included) @ KISSHOKARYO

KISSHOKARYO Japan Premium “Miyabi” – ¥1,870 (Tax Included) @ KISSHOKARYO

Munch down on these delicious chocolate cookies made with high quality soy flour, almonds, and oat milk.

They’re also serving a special Japanese parfait for eating-in, made with specially-selected Uji matcha from Kyoto and homemade soy flour.

Sankaku Box Sando – ¥1,080 (Tax Included) @ New Style Ginza Sembikiya

Roppongi Hills Exclusive Melon Parfait – ¥2,700 (Tax Included) @ New Style Ginza Sembikiya

Added to the thick and fluffy bread is fresh fruit and subtly sweet cream to make a refreshing sandwich. The chocolate sandwich in the left of the picture is exclusive to Roppongi Hills.

The must-try is the melon parfait, which is made with melons grown in Shizuoka that have been specially selected by the shop.

Cake Shop Miracle Collaboration Set – ¥3,456 (Tax Included) @ Kashi no Kirokujo

This set is an assortment made by four long-standing cake makers: Akasaka Kakiyama, Obusedo, Ganyudo, and Nanohana.

Roppongi Lingotto – ¥3,240 (Tax Included) @ Bicerin

Caffe mocha al Bicerin – ¥660 (Tax Included) @ Bicerin

Served in a limited-edition Roppongi Hills box, the “Roppongi Lingotto” bears the shopping complex’s logo, and is a popular gift that was even served to members of the Japanese government at the G7 Ise-Shima and G20 Osaka summits.

When dining in, you can order a rich bicerin which is a mix of espresso, milk, and chocolate sauce topped with whipped cream that’s shaped to look like a hill.

Raw Pound Cake Assortment – ¥1,700 (Tax Included) @ Pavlov

Choose from seven adorable small-size cakes, including cream vanille, pistachio fruits rouges, chocolate orange, very berry, Kyoto matcha, caramel nuts, and mont blanc.

Roppongi Exclusive GIFT – ¥918 (Tax Included) @ Jiichiro

Wrapped in special Roppongi Hills packaging, this box contains an assortment of Jiichiro treats from their popular baumkuchen to rusk, gateau chocolat, and more.

In the Food Area, seven restaurants will open serving quick, authentic food. A number of popular restaurants are also making an appearance, like Kyu Yamutei which is famous for its Osaka spice curry, as well as THAI STREET FOOD by KRUNG SIAM. The menu line-ups will include dishes exclusive to Roppongi Hills.

Food Area – Roppongi Hill Exclusives

Curry-Gear MAX – ¥1,650 (Tax Included) @ Kyu Yamutei

This curry combines unique ingredients and spices. The ingredients and roux are switched up every month, and you can pick from one to four rouxs.

Khao Soi No-Broth Mazemen Noodle Curry – ¥1,200 (Tax Included) @ THAI STREET FOOD by KRUNG SIAM

This mazemen noodle curry is a spin on the hugely popular khao soi Chiang Mai ramen, made without any broth. It has the full-bodied aroma and spiciness that comes with Thai-style curry. Change up the flavour with a topping of homemade pepper.

Fisherman’s Seafood Spaghetti alla Pescatora – ¥1,848 (Tax Included) @ Pasta & Pizza Uota

Piled with plenty of seafood, this luxurious and specially-made tomato pasta wastes no flavour of the fish used for its rich sauce.

Brioche Vendée N – ¥864 (Tax Included) @ Boulangerie Bonheur

A traditional brioche from Vendée in France. It’s combined with orange flower water and contains raisins soaked in Kirsch. The center is moist and just melts in your mouth.

Seafood & Eel Dashi Chazuke – ¥1,320 (Tax Included) @ Dashi Chazuke En

Another exclusive to Roppongi Hills is this chazuke, filled with all the flavours and sea like tuna, porgy, eel, and more. Try it as it is first and then pour over the broth.

Spring Vegetables & Fried Fish Lunch Box – ¥900 (Tax Included) @ Dexee Deli

A set of seasonal vegetables like edible chrysanthemums, asparagus, and cabbage, combined with fried fish, rice, and bamboo shoots.

Find a whole world of food, desserts and gifts at Roppongi Hills’ new Food & Gift Area.

We’re keeping the cherry blossom theme running here on MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON as we approach spring. Today, we’re showcasing something for those planning a trip to Tokyo for the cherry blossom and Hanami season: 5 must-try cherry blossom foods and desserts served at hotels across Tokyo.

Sakura Strawberry Afternoon Tea at InterContinental Tokyo Strings

Sakura Strawberry Afternoon Tea – ¥4,800

The fraisier is a strawberry cake said to represent the coming of spring in France. At Rhythmos, a cafe and bar at InterContinental Tokyo Strings, it’s served in a glass so you can see all the delicious insides, from the round-sliced strawberries to the beautiful green pistachio mousseline cream. The pure white crémet d’Anjou has a fluffy texture and is mixed with refreshing and sour strawberry and raspberry sauce which elevates the flavour of the fromage blanc.

Other treats to pick from include the cherry blossom ganache tart which has a faint cherry blossom fragrance, cherry blossom and strawberry cream-stuffed macarons, strawberry daifuku, and more―all with spring flavours and colours.

The savoury line-up too offers some elegant and unique items. There’s the sandwich wraps which include cherry blossom leaf-topped grilled chicken with a lining of shredded dried plum, strawberry ceviche with grilled scallops, and much more.

▶︎Sakura Strawberry Afternoon Tea

Running: March 1, 2020 to April 30, 2020

Location: Rhythmos Café and Bar (InterContinental Tokyo Strings)

Time: 14:00-18:00 (Last Orders 16:30)

Price: ¥4,800 per person

Official Website: https://intercontinental-strings.jp/?updatelang=yes

InterContinental Tokyo Strings

Address: 2-16-1 Konan, Minato Ward, Tokyo

Official Website: https://intercontinental-strings.jp/?updatelang=yes

For more details, check out our previous article here: Cherry Blossom Themed Menu to be Served at InterContinental Tokyo Strings in Spring 2020

Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea at Hotel Chinzaso Tokyo

Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea

On the top plate is a collection of four pink and white desserts. This includes some tempting macarons which are filled with a cherry blossom ganache. The macarons themselves are vanilla flavoured, packed with cherry blossom cream, and have prints of delicate cherry blossom flowers on them.

On the lower tier are crunchy pie sandwiches filled with a cream cheese that is laced with cherry blossom leaves, while the bottom tier is an assortment that includes refreshing shrimp, grapefruit and asparagus sandwiches, and more.

▼Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea

Running: February 17, 2020 – April 12, 2020
Time: 12:00-18:00
*On weekdays between January 6, 2020 to February 28, 2020, the afternoon tea will be served from 14:30-18:00 due to the holding of the sweets buffet
Location: Le Jardin at Hotel Chinzaso Tokyo
Prices: Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea ¥4,000 / With Welcome Drink ¥4,500

Hotel Chinzaso Tokyo

Address: 2-10-8 Sekiguchi, Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo

Official Website (English): https://www.hotel-chinzanso-tokyo.com/

For more details, check out our previous article here: Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea in Japan: Hotel Chinzaso Tokyo’s Beautiful Floral Menu

Sakura Picnic Basket at Grand Hyatt Tokyo’s Steak House “The Oak Door”

Sakura Picnic Basket – ¥5,500

The Oak Door is noted for its use of high quality ingredients prepared in a dynamic way. This spring, they have the perfect pick to give you that feeling that the Japanese Hanami season is here with a cherry blossom picnic basket. This stylish selection has the lot: food, dessert, glasses, and cutlery. The burgers bear pink buns which are stuffed with prime beef patties, pastrami beef, and veg. They also have skewered vegetables too like radishes. Seeking that springtime sensation? Then order your very own Sakura Picnic Basket!

▼Sakura Picnic Basket at Grand Hyatt Tokyo’s Steak House “The Oak Door”

Running: March 1, 2020 – Mid April 2020
Time: 9:00〜22:00

Price: ¥5,500

Location: The Oak Door (Grand Hyatt Tokyo Floor 6F)

Grand Hyatt Tokyo

Address: 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato, Tokyo

Official Website (English): https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/japan/grand-hyatt-tokyo/tyogh/offers

Gorgeous Springtime Cherry Blossom Set at Keio Plaza Hotel

At eight of Keio Plaza Hotel’s restaurantsーwhose menus span traditional Japanese dishes, French food, Chinese cuisineーthey are cooking up their own unique cherry blossom servings.

“Kadode” Lunch & Dinner – ¥15,500 @ Soujuan

A traditional kaiseki-style Japanese course consisting of a bounty of luxury ingredients like Japanese Black wagyu beef, caviar, and more.

“contente” French Lunch – ¥9,000 @ Duo Fourchettes

You need only look at the dishes served at Duo Fourchettes to understand the level of quality and beauty that goes into their dishes. This French lunch line-up is packed with plenty of seasonal spring ingredients, and there’s even a succulent strawberry-packed dessert to indulge in.

▼Gorgeous Springtime Cherry Blossom Set at Keio Plaza Hotel

Running: March 1, 2020 – April 30, 2020
Prices:
“Kadode” Lunch & Dinner – ¥15,500 @ Soujuan
“contente” French Lunch – ¥9,000 @ Duo Fourchettes

Keio Plaza Hotel
Address: 2-2-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo

Official Website (English): https://www.keioplaza.com/

Spring Sakura Sweets & Pastries at Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba

At the “Bakery & Pastry Shop,” which is managed directly by the hotel, they have a beautiful choice of desserts perfect for Hanami flower-viewing.

Sakura Opera – ¥610

This three-layered cake is made up of matcha joconde biscuit, adzuki and cherry blossom butter cream, and strawberry jelly. It’s also topped with white chocolate by French premium chocolate company Valrhona.

Spring Milk Cream – ¥320

The pastry of these eclairs are made with plenty of milk and are filled with a homemade cherry blossom milk cream. The cherry blossom petals on top are pickled in salt to give a slight salty bite, contrasting deliciously with the sweetness of the cream.

▼Spring Sakura Sweets & Pastries at Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba

Running: March 1, 2020 – April 30, 2020
Time: 10:00-20:00
Location: Bakery & Pastry Shop at Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba
Prices:
Sakura Opera – ¥610
Spring Milk Cream – ¥320

Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba
Address: 2-6-1 Daiba, Minato Ward, Tokyo
Official Website (English): https://www.tokyo.grandnikko.com/eng/

Which of these picks has your mouth watering the most? If you’re travelling to Tokyo for the springtime cherry blossoms, why not book at one of these hotels and start your trip with a delicious sakura treat?

American gourmet popcorn brand Garrett Popcorn Shops® has revealed its new cherry blossom pink coloured, strawberry and white chocolate flavoured popcorn “Very Berry White Chocolate,” along with the new “Garrett Sakura Tin”ーboth of which will be released tomorrow on February 15 in limited quantities.

Very Berry White Chocolate: Small ¥580/Medium ¥1,030/Large ¥1,670/Jumbo ¥3,300/Quarter Tin ¥1,700/1 Gallon Tin ¥4,300/2 Gallon Tin ¥8,250

Also released for spring last year to overwhelming popularity, the “Very Berry White Chocolate” popcorn takes Garrett Popcorn’s fruity, sweet and sour “Strawberry Caramel Crisp™” flavour, coats it in sweet white chocolate, and sprinkles it with strawberry flakes to create a truly succulent strawberry treat, which is made even more delicious with the milk white chocolate. Its pink colour also brings to mind images of Japan’s cherry blossoms.

Garrett Sakura Tin/Quarter Tin: From ¥1,130

The Garrett Sakura Tin has been sold every spring since 2014, and makes a return once again for 2020, covered in beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom.

The pink-on-pink combination is a great Valentine’s Day present, for a springtime movie nightーwhatever takes your fancy!

GINZA SIXーthe largest shopping complex in Ginzaーhas unveiled some of the incredible desserts arriving for this spring only.

Ginza is famous for its host of restaurants which serve up gorgeously gourmet food throughout the four seasons, and so you can expect GINZA SIX’s line-up to be something special. Let’s take a look.

Strawberry Sweet Afternoon Tea – ¥4,200 (Before Tax) @ THE GRAND GINZA

“Shun’un” pecial Make Maruto Parfait – ¥2,300 (Before Tax) @ Nakamura Tokichi Honten Ginza

Strawberry Mix Candy – ¥593 (Before Tax) @ Candy Art Museum by PAPABUBBLE

The line-up of delectable treats at GINZA SIX won’t just satisfy your sweet tooth, but your eyes too due to their delightful appearanceーlike the strawberry and roses littered afternoon tea, or the strawberry candy which is made using only the best available strawberries. The shops and restaurants at GINZA SIX have ensured to prepare sweets that will bring spring to mind Japanese springtime and the pink cherry blossoms.

Matcha Ganache – ¥1,800 (Before Tax) @ Tsujiri

Matcha & Tamba Azuki Bean Cake – ¥2,600 (Before Tax) @ Marlowe

Kurozu Vinegar Raw Chocolate – ¥1,500 (Before Tax) @ Shoubunsu Vinegar Brewery

Other tantalising treats include more Japanese-tasting selections, like cookies injected with a rich matcha ganache, raw chocolate doused with kurozu vinegar, gluten-free pound cake made with freshly-made Uji matcha, and more.

Of course, since this is a spring line-up, there are flowery fusions to find too, like candy topped with edible flowers and rose flavoured frozen fruit bars.

Rose & Raspberry – ¥520 (Before Tax) @ PALETAS

Spring Edible Flower Lollipops – ¥555 (Before Tax) @ Candy Art Museum by PAPABUBBLE

Aya Farm Saku Mango Selection – ¥3,800 (Before Tax) @ Aya Farm

If you’re in Tokyo for spring, the cherry blossoms and hanami, then be sure to stop by GINZA SIX to indulge yourself this season.

Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Japan has announced its second doughnut collaboration with internationally popular French character Barbapapa, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Three new doughnuts are being released as part of the “Fruity Barbapapa” series on February 26.

Barbapapa x Strawberry: ¥290

The shape-shifting Barbapapa comes in a strawberry flavour. The fluffy doughnut is coated in a sweet and sour strawberry chocolate and is filled with fresh strawberry pieces.

Barbapapa x Apple: ¥290

Barbabravo is one of Barbapapa’s sons, and he comes in a bright-red apple flavour.  He’s coated with caramel and is filled with a tangy apple nappage and smooth, rich apple cream.

Barbazoo x Mango: ¥290

The nature-loving Barbazoo, another one of Barbapapa’s sons, comes in a bright yellow colour and is mango flavoured. It’s made from delicious alphonso mango and filled with a rich cream puree for a tropical treat.

Recommended Dozen (12 Included): ¥2,000

Recommended Half Dozen (6 Included): ¥1,250

Recommended Box (3 Included): ¥840

Get them in a box of three, six, or twelve, and enjoy the cute and wonderful world of Barbapapa in doughnut form!3

*Limited-edition box available while supplies last. Mercedes me Tokyo HANEDA branch of Krispy Kreme Doughnuts not participating.

If you thought we hadn’t covered enough desserts and food from Fukuoka already here on MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON, never fearーwe’ve got you covered with another tasty line-up for you. This time we’re looking at a list of 5 must-try strawberry desserts from Kyushu’s northern island, and we’re joined by Instagrammer moe who has provided us with some mouth-watering photos of each pick.

COFFEE COUNTY | Kurume

Kurasukoto | Hirao

DAIMYO SOFT CREAM | Hakata

Pinsirio | Kuromon

yorimichi | Kasuya

Spring is set to blossom early at Hotel Chinzaso Tokyo, where they will begin serving their “Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea” at Le Jardin, a lobby lounge, from February 17. Three new cherry blossom sweets will also be sold for the spring season only from March 1 at the hotel’s Pastry & Cheese Shop, which bakes up fresh bread, cheese, desserts, and more.

Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea

The Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea returns to Hotel Chizanso Tokyo after its huge reception last year. This cute pink assortment is stacked high with cherry blossom flavours and seasonal ingredients.

On the top plate is a collection of four pink and white desserts. This includes some tempting macarons which are filled with a cherry blossom ganache. The macarons themselves are vanilla flavoured, packed with cherry blossom cream, and have prints of delicate cherry blossom flowers on them.

On the middle tier are crunchy pie sandwiches filled with a cream cheese that is laced with cherry blossom leaves, while the bottom tier is an assortment that includes refreshing shrimp, grapefruit and asparagus sandwiches, and more.

Cherry Blossom Roll Cake

Baked fresh in the Pastry & Cheese Shop are these incredible cherry blossom roll cakes that look almost ornamental. They are part of the “Seasonal Cake ~SAKURA~” series of three desserts being sold at the shop for a limited time. The roll cakes are stuffed with fresh cream which is filled with black beans and cherry blossom paste. They are also finished with a little salt. This is an absolute must-eat during spring in Japan this year, a treat that reminds one of the cherry blossoms during the Hanami (flower-viewing) season.

Cherry Blossom Cube

The second dessert is the cute checked Cherry Blossom Cube, a pink and white sponge laced with strawberry and cherry blossom syrup. The butter cream is also made with cherry blossom, and the whole thing is topped with almond and white chocolate.

Cherry Blossom & Pistachio Panna Cotta

Finally, we have the white vanilla and cherry blossom panna cotta which is made with a rich pistachio bavarois and cherry blossom jelly. It’s topped with a pickled cherry blossom bud, and the bavarois has sliced strawberries on it made to look like petals.

But that’s not all for springtime at  Hotel Chinzaso Tokyo. A walk through their gardens gifts your eyes to a variety of different cherry trees, like the kawazu-zakura and Taiwan cherry, which bloom early, as well as the Yoko cherry, miyabi-zakura, and Yoshino cherry, which blossom between February and April. There are 120 trees to see spanning 20 types of cherry blossom; enjoy them during the early hours when they are basked in the morning light, or at night when they are lit up with beautiful illuminations. And don’t forget the row of cherry trees that line Kandagawa from Edogawabashi Stationーthe closest station to the hotel.

Spring is the season for relaxationーa time for kicking back and letting your mind and body chill in its cool embrace. If you’re looking for the ultimate relaxation this spring, say, to be treated like a princess, then look no further than Phoenix Seagaia Resort.

Located in Japan’s Miyazaki Prefecture, this resort offers the perfect springtime experience, with an all-you-can-eat dessert buffet, a walk through the flower-filled garden, massages, a bath with an ocean view, and much more.

All-you-can-eat dessert buffet with 50 different treats – Available Spring Only

The pastry chefs at Sheraton have poured their hearts and souls into this ambrosial line-up. Fifty beautifully colourful delights make up this all-you-can-eat dessert buffet, which features a bountiful of berries such as strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. The line-up will change for the second month of this limited-time service to introduce a different fifty items. That makes 100 options over the course of two months. Even better, all the soft drinks are all-you-can-drink too.

Sheraton Sweets Buffet” Very Very Berry”

Running: March 1, 2020 – April 30, 2020 (Except March 22, 2020)

Time: 14:00-15:30

Location: “Pine Terrace” Garden Buffet at Sheraton Grande Ocean Resort (Floor 1F)

Price: Ages 13+ ¥2,500 / Ages 4-12 ¥1,250

Information Page: https://seagaia.co.jp/article/641

*Members of the Segaia Premium Members Club receive a discount: Ages 13+ ¥2,300 / Ages 4-12 ¥1,150

*Those looking to eat lunch at the Sheraton restaurant can pay the following price on the day only: Ages 13+ ¥1,000 / Ages 4-12 ¥625

Drink tea and feel like a princess around the pool

“THE LIVING GARDEN” is a garden area attached to Sheraton Grande Ocean Resort, where guests can enjoy a “springtime garden party” in a gorgeous, Instagrammable-looking space. Purchase a “Picnic Basket” set for takeout and enjoy some well-deserved princess teatime either on one of the sofas surrounding the pool or in a gazebo, the latter of which you can rent.

FLOWER LIVING ~Spring Garden Party~
Running: February 21, 2020 – May 24, 2020
Price: Free (For Sheatron guests only)
Information Page: https://seagaia.co.jp/article/641

Hog that breathtaking ocean view all to yourself

Sheraton Grande Ocean Resort’s favourable location places it by the sea, meaning all rooms guests stay in enjoy an ocean view. There are also two very special rooms called “Corner Suites” which boast a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean from the bathtub. The blue sea and sky can be enjoyed from every part of the room too, not just the bath, meaning everyone can enjoy their own private little resort experience without being intruded upon by anyone else.

Special Club Suite – Grand View Bath

Location: Sheraton Grande Ocean Resort – Club Floor (Floors 39/41) 109㎡

No. of People: 2

Information Page: https://seagaia.co.jp/hotel/sgor/club-floor/20

Unwind at the spa

Experience true luxury at the Banyan Tree Spa, a pioneering Asian spa brand that was established in Phuket, Thailand. Enjoy nature and beauty come together in your treatment with quiet music, natural light from the towering windows, and the scent of original essential oils.

Banyan Tree Spa

Location: Sheraton Grande Ocean Resort (Floor 39)

Opening Hours: 10:00-20:00 (Reservation Only)

Information Page: https://seagaia.co.jp/hss/254

Eye-catching artisanal cocktails to complete your spring evenings

Left: Berry Rose Bouquet / Right: Cherry Blossom Tonic

The KURO BAR offers an unbroken view of the lit-up garden area. Sip on one of their delicious and expensive-looking cocktails, like the “Berry Rose Bouquet,” a full-bodied beverage made with a tea liqueur, rose syrup and cranberry juice. Or you can order the “Cherry Blossom Sonic” at Pacifica, a cocktail lounge with live music. This drink is fragrant with cherry blossom and mixes together cherry blossom liqueur and gin.

Flower Cocktails

Available: March 1, 2020 – April 30, 2020

Prices: Berry Rose Bouquet ¥1,300 / Cherry Blossom Tonic ¥1,600

Taste the flavours of a Miyazaki Prefecture spring

At the resort’s main restaurant, Pine Terrace, they are serving a buffet-style menu with seasonal springtime ingredients. Enjoy a line-up of typical Miyazaki flavours, like shimaura sea bream and steamed kumquat white wine, spring cabbage and sakura shrimp spaghetti aglio e olio, tempura, and more.

Pine Terrace’s Spring Dinner Buffet

Available: March 1, 2020 – April 30, 2020

Time: 17:30-22:00 (Last Orders 21:30)

Prices: Ages 13+ ¥4,500 / Ages 4-12 ¥2,250

*Prices for the dinner buffet will change from the start of April to: Ages 13+ ¥4,600 / Ages 4-12 ¥2,300

Information Page: https://seagaia.co.jp/article/641#paragraph_1557

Make some springtime memories this year at the incredible Seagaiaシーガイアで春の楽しい思い出を作ろう！

*Listed prices include tax. Photos are for illustrative purposes only.