Grand Front Osaka has announced a Christmas event this year called ‘Grand Wish Christmas 2020’ which will run from November 11 to December 25. ‘Winter Voyage’ is the theme for the event which will switch on host of dazzling illuminations to warm up the cockles of everyone’s heart this coming winter.
Winter Voyage: A journey of hope to connect the world
The ball-draped Winter Voyage Tree was created by Japanese designer Kimi Hasegawa and will be placed inside the mall’s Knowledge Plaza. Guests will also be welcomed by the Champagne Gold Illumination which has been fitted with 400,000 balls, and there will also be a photo exhibition made in collaboration with travel culture magazine TRANSIT that showcases beautiful sights around the world.
*Please note that parts of the event are subject to change or cancellation depending on the situation surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.
Winter Voyage Tree: The main Christmas tree
The balloons that adorn the tree each represent a continent and how the world is connected to the same sky. The Winter Voyage Tree is a magical Christmas tree to deliver wishes this winter, with the balloons each having motifs of animals, buildings, and plans from each place around the world. See them illuminated with the ‘Lighting Show’ this winter.
Running: November 11, 2020 – December 25, 2020
Lighting Show: [Weekdays] 17:00-Midnight / [Weekends] 16:00-Midnight
Location: Knowledge Village, Grand Front Osaka North Building Floor 1F
Champagne Gold Illumination
126 trees around the 1 hectare-wide Umekita Plaza in front of Osaka Station will glow with 400,000 champagne gold lights.
Running: November 11, 2020 – February 23, 2021
Illumination Time: Everyday 17:00-Midnight
Locations: Umekita Plaza, Keyaki Namiki, West Side of Grand Front Osaka’s North Building
TED HYBER -Ugly Christmas Sweater-
Ted Hyber is a giant teddy bear created by French contemporary artist Fabrice Hybert. A symbol of Grand Front Osaka’s Umekita Plaza, he will be dressed up in an “Ugly Christmas Sweater” this year.
Running: November 11, 2020 – December 25, 2020
Location: Grand Front Osaka South Building
TRANSIT Photo Exhibition – “It’s a beautiful planet”
Travel culture magazine TRANSIT will be showcasing a selection of photos taken by a number of artists such as Yayoi Arimoto, who works for the magazine, taken around the world. It’s a great opportunity for those unable to travel in the current climate.
Running: November 11, 2020 – December 25, 2020
Location: Grand Front Osaka North Building Floors 3F-6F
Information
Grand Wish Christmas 2020
Grand Front Osaka Official Website: https://www.grandfront-osaka.jp/
RELATED ENTRIES
-
Mr. Osomatsu Themed Hotel Rooms Open Across Japan
19.April.2021 | ANIME&GAME / SPOT
KADOKAWA has announced that it’s taking the Mr. Osomatsu themed hotel room from EJ Anime Hotel at Tokorozawa Sakura Town in Saitama, which ran from December 3, 2020 to March 31, 2021, to six hotels in Sapporo, Nagoya, Osaka, and Hakata starting on April 28.
Mr. Osomatsu anime freebies for guests
Design of the free mask case
Free coaster
The ‘EJ’ of EJ Anime Hotel stands for ‘Entertainment Japan.’ The hotel aims to have guests living inside the stories they love from a wide range of Japanese media from anime to manga, movies, tokusatsu SFX movies, idol culture, and more. As well as room decorations and the exclusive merch that will be on sale, the hotel is also offering a new kind of accommodation experience by incorporating videos, sounds, lighting, and more. Its restaurant will also offer a selection of food and drink in collaboration with various series including all-out full course dinners.
Due to its popularity with guests, the Mr. Osomatsu themed anime room is heading to six locations across Japan which are listed below.
©赤塚不二夫/おそ松さん製作委員会
Information
Mr. Osomatsu Room
Bookings: Now Open
Running: April 28, 2021 – June 30, 2021Capacity: Up to two people per room (Twin Rooms only)
Official Website: https://tokorozawa-sakuratown.jp/hotel/
Participating Hotels
Sapporo Excel Hotel Tokyu
https://www.rsv.tokyuhotels.co.jp/cgi-bin/ihonex/stay/plan_cal.cgi?hid=r_TE_SAPPO&plancd=TCMOSBLTN2&form=jp
Nagoya Sakae Tokyu REI Hotel
https://www.rsv.tokyuhotels.co.jp/cgi-bin/ihonex/stay/search_category.cgi?hid=r_TI_SAKAE&search%3Ahid=r_TI_SAKAE&plan_groupcd=IB0OM1&search=1&form=jp
the b Nagoya
https://www.theb-hotels.com/theb/nagoya/
Shin Osaka Esaka Tokyu Rei Hotel
https://www.rsv.tokyuhotels.co.jp/cgi-bin/ihonex/stay/search_category.cgi?hid=r_TI_ESAKA&search%3Ahid=r_TI_ESAKA&plan_groupcd=IBEE31&c=1&search=1&form=jp
&AND HOSTEL HOMMACHI EAST
https://andhostel.jp/hommachieast/
Hakata Excel Hotel Tokyu
https://www.rsv.tokyuhotels.co.jp/cgi-bin/ihonex/stay/search_category.cgi?hid=r_TE_HAKAT&search%3Ahid=r_TE_HAKAT&plan_groupcd=IBEOS1&search=1&form=jp -
Gintama @ Dash Store to Open in Ikebukuro and Osaka This April
18.April.2021 | ANIME&GAME / FASHION
The Gintama @ Dash Store pop-up shop is returning to Ikebukuro P’PARCO and Animate Osaka Nipponbashi where fans can get their hands on lots of merchandise of Hideaki Sorachi’s manga series Gintama.
Gintama’s characters wear blue for the store
Dash Store will sell a range of exclusive items as well as offer pre-sales on upcoming merchandise. The illustration pictured above of the characters in blue hoodies was also drawn exclusively for the store and will feature on a range of items.
For every ¥2,000 (tax included) spent by fans at the store they will receive one of nine possible bromide pictures. And for an extra ¥500, those who buy one or more items can get a special tote bag too.
A look at some of the merch line-up
Acrylic Stands | ¥1,650 Each (Tax Included)
Folders | ¥440 Each (Tax Included)
Acrylic Key Rings | ¥715 Each (Tax Included)
Hoodies | ¥5,500 Each (Tax Included)
©空知英秋/集英社・テレビ東京・電通・BNP・アニプレックス
Information
Gintama @ Dash Store
Running: April 24, 2021 – May 13, 2021
Where: Ikebukuro P’PARCO (Floor 3F) / Animate Osaka Nipponbashi (Floor 1F)
Online Shop: https://www.movic.jp/shop/pages/dashonline.aspx
Event Page: http://dashstore.net/title_item/gintama2104/
-
Hio Miyazawa and Suzu Yamanouchi Feature in Special Rainwear Commercial
09.April.2021 | FASHION
Japanese rainwear brand Wpc. released a special new commercial featuring actors Hio Miyazawa and Suzu Yamanouchi. The collaborative video is entitled “What’s Changed, What Hasn’t Changed.”
The Rainwear Items
Basic Jump Umbrella – Off Paint
Big Silhouette Rain Poncho – Unisex Caramel
Floral Pink Gradation
Colour Mesh Coat – Beige
Free Lookbook
The message of the commercial is one of positivity: that though somethings might change, others do not. It refers to the state of the world during the COVID-19 pandemic, that despite being unable to see our loved ones, and that we’re unable to lead the lives we once did, our feelings towards those special to us, and those around us, is eternal.
Information
What’s Changed, What Hasn’t Changed
Lookbook: Free distribution at Wpc. Shinsaibashi PARCO and Wpc. pop-up shops
Official Website: https://bit.ly/3uw2BFn
-
Japanese Illustrator Mai Yoneyama Releases Limited-Edition T-Shirts
09.April.2021 | FASHION
To commemorate her exhibition “EGO” exhibition currently taking place at Anicoremix Gallery in Harajuku, Japanese illustrator Mai Yoneyama has released a collection of limited-edition t-shirts in collaboration with the sneaker brand atmos. The exhibition, which is showcasing many of Yoneyama’s works, is running until April 14.
Wear Mai Yoneyama’s iconic pop style wherever you go with these limited-edition tees.
Information
MAI YONEYAMA x Anicoremix Gallery s atmos
Released: April 3, 2021
Buy Here: Anicoremix Gallery / atmos
Exhibition Details: https://monokomono.com/events/mai-yoneyama-ego-2021/
-
Shun Nakao Solo Exhibition to Open at SkiiMa Gallery in Shinsaibashi
Japanese artist Shun Nakao is set to hold their GENKOUHAN exhibition at SkiiMa Gallery in Shinsaibashi PARCO from April 9.
A look at some of the merchandise to be sold
Lithographs | ¥4,200 Each (Tax Included)
Lithographs | ¥4,200 Each (Tax Included)
T-Shirts | ¥4,200 (Tax Included)
Sodagirl Acrylic Key Ring | ¥1,100 (Tax Included)
Nakao’s colourful and laid-back art is a pleasant sight for the eyes during these dark times. Fans of their work can also get their hands on a range of merch from lithographs to t-shirts, acrylic key rings, and more – all created for this exclusive exhibition.
Information
GENKOUHAN
Running: April 9, 2021 – April 26, 2021
Opening Hours: 10:00-20:00
Location: SkiiMa Gallery at Shinsaibashi PARCO’s (Floor 4F)
Entry: Free
SHUN NAKAO Official Website: https://www.shunnakao.com/
-
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s Fragrance Brand Nostalgia Syndrome Releases Lily & Jasmine Series
07.April.2021 | FASHION
Nostalgia Syndrome opened pre-orders for its new Lily & Jasmine series of fragrances on March 31. The products will be released on April 22.
Nostalgia Syndrome is a fragrance brand produced by Kyary Pamyu Pamyu which launched last year. The new Lily & Jasmine series will be available to purchase online and will also be sold at two brand pop-up shops in Tokyo and Osaka. Those who spend over ¥10,000 online or at either of the stores (tax included) will receive a free Nostalgia Syndrome novelty – these are available in limited supply.
Online Store Novelty: Original Thermal Bottle
Pop-Up Store Novelty: Original Big Eco-Bag
Lily & Jasmine Series
Eau de Toilette | ¥8,250 (Tax Included)
Room & Fragrance Spray | ¥3,300 (Tax Included)
Aroma Diffuser | ¥7,150 (Tax Included)
Bath Salts | ¥3,410 (Tax Included)
Hand Soap | ¥3,520 (Tax Included)
Scented Candle | ¥8,140 (Tax Included)
Eau de Toilette Two-Set (9mL)
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu | Comment
“This is Nostalgia Syndrome’s second fragrance release. After mixing together various ingredients, I was finally able to catch the right scent. The theme for this one is ‘travel fragrance.’ Because of COVID, our time spent outdoors has gone down dramatically, but smells tied to our memories make up part of us all. And smelling them brings back those memories. This is a blend of sweet, sophisticated lily and refreshing jasmine, so it’s a really easy one to use that can be enjoyed by both guys and girls. We’re also opening our first pop-up shop so please be sure to drop by to try out!”
Lily and jasmine are vibrant fragrances and perfect for the spring season. Order yours today!
Information
Nostalgia Syndrome Lily & Jasmine
Pre-Orders: March 31, 2021 (Shipping from April 22)
Release Date: April 22, 2021
Pop-Up Stores
・+SPBS (SHIBUYA SCRAMBLE SQUARE 2F)
Running: April 22, 2021 – May 26, 2021
Where: +SPBS, SHIBUYA SCRAMBLE SQUARE Floor 2F, 2-24-12 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Opening Hours: 11:00-21:00
・Shinsaibashi PARCO
Running: May 13, 2021 – May 20, 2021
Where: Shinsaibashi PARCO Floor B1F, 1-8-3 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi-, Osaka
Opening Hours: 10:00-20:00
Nostalgia Syndrome Official Website: https://www.nostalgia-syndrome.com/
-
A BATHING APE® x COMME des GARCONS Launch Second Collaboration
07.April.2021 | FASHION
After one year since their first collaboration, A BATHING APE® and COMME des GARCONS released their second collection at BAPE STORE® and COMME des GARCONS OSAKA on April 3 featuring a new line-up that emphasises everything quintessential about both brands.
The collection includes full-zip hoodies, sweat shorts, tapered pants, and more, all branded with BAPE and GARCONS’ logos and serving hard, casual vibes. The brands released a look-book as pictured below with a simple yet aesthetic style.
Information
A BATHING APE® x COMME des GARCONS
Released: April 3, 2021
Where: BAPE STORE® / COMME des GARCONS OSAKA
Product Page: https://bape.com/pages/abathingape-commedesgarcons-2021ss
BAPE Official Website: https://bape.com/
-
Disney’s Zootopia Themed Cafe to Open in Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya for Film’s 5th Anniversary
The Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya branches of OH MY CAFE are set to pay host to cafe experiences themed on Disney’s Zootopia in celebration of the movie’s 5th anniversary which hit last month. The cafes will transform into a Zootopia extravaganza from April 23.
Customers who book a table in advance receive one of six possible lunch mats
The Menu
Vegetable Curry ¥1,890 (Before Tax)
Sandwich Plate ¥1,990 (Before Tax)
Corn Cream Pie ¥1,590 (Before Tax)
Salsa Burger ¥2,390 (Before Tax)
Carrot Doria ¥1,490 (Before Tax)
Acrylic Coasters +¥900 (Before Tax)
Iced Milk ¥990 (Before Tax) / With Mug +¥1,600 (Before Tax)
Iced Coffee ¥690 (Before Tax) / With Mug ¥1,600 (Before Tax)
Iced Drink ¥990 (Before Tax)
Exclusive Merchandise
Movie Stills Series
Acrylic Key Rings
Square Magnet ¥550 (Before Tax) / Acryluc Key Ring ¥650 (Before Tax) / A4 Folder ¥350 (Before Tax)
Mask Cases ¥500 (Before Tax) / Masking Tapes ¥800 (Before Tax)
Tiny Animals Series
Acrylic Charms ¥450 (Before Tax) / Mini Notebook Set ¥850 (Before Tax)
A5 Folder Set ¥800 (Before Tax) / Mini Pouch Set ¥1,800 (Before Tax)
Mini Towels ¥1,000 (Before Tax) / Eco Bag ¥1,850 (Before Tax)
Zootopia fans won’t be able to resist the tasty and healthy themed menu featuring Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps, as well as getting their hands on a range of merchandise from stationery to fashion.
©Disney
Information
Zootopia OH MY CAFE
OH MY CAFE TOKYO
Running: April 23, 2021 – June 27, 2021
Address: Tokyu Plaza Omotesando, 4-30-3 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
OH MY CAFE OSAKA
Running: April 28, 2021 – July 6, 2021
Address: 1-6-1 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka
kawara CAFE&KITCHEN
Running: June 2, 2021 – July 13, 2021
Address: Nagoya PARCO, 3-29-1 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya-shi, AichiOfficial Website: https://zoo.ohmycafe.jp/
-
Disney Japan Celebrates 30th Anniversary of Disney Fan Magazine With Special Event
Walt Disney Japan will celebrate both the 30th anniversary of its Disney Fan monthly magazine and the 10th anniversary of its Disney Store original character UniBEARsity with a special event titled “Disney FAN 30th anniversary FAN!FAN!FAN!” which will run at the Shibuya Koen-dori branch of the Disney Store from April 2 and the Shinsaibashi branch from May 14.
©Disney
The event will pay homage to the 30-year history of the much-loved Disney Fan magazine as well as feature a special art exhibition of past front covers. This artwork will be included on new and exclusive merchandise sold at the store. UniBEARsity will also see the spotlight as its history is also covered along with a range of 10th anniversary items.
Disney Fan 30th Anniversary Celebrations: Art Exhibition, History, and Merch
©Disney
The Disney Fan exhibit will include a silhouette of Mickey Mouse made from a collage of old-time magazine covers. It will also feature an exhibit of back numbers, statues and papercrafts made from past magazine covers, commentary on certain issues, and more.
Fans can also get their hands on a collection of merchandise made with exclusive artwork from the magazine covers, from folders and face mask cases to magnets, frames and more – check out an excerpt of what’s on offer below.
UniBEARsity: 10th Anniversary Exhibition
©Disney
UniBEARsity is a line-up of Disney teddy bear characters which came to life after Minnie taught Mickey and friends how to sew them. In celebration of its 10th anniversary, a special exhibition will take place including a special feature taken from Disney Fan when it first debuted, as well as a showcase of 89 teddy bears.an original story that bear characters. Check out what merchandise you can get here.
Information
Disney FAN 30th anniversary FAN! FAN! FAN!
Disney Store Shibuya Koen-dori
Running: April 2, 2021 – May 9, 2021
*The first three days of the event (April 2-4) are exclusive to users of the Disney Store app
Address: Humax Pavilion Shibuya Koen-dori, 20-15 Udagawacho, Shibuya, Tokyo
Opening Hours: 11:00-20:00 (Until 17:00 on May 9)
Entry: Free
Disney Store Shinsaibashi
Running: May 14, 2021 – June 20, 2021
Address: 2-1-13 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka
Opening Hours: [Weekdays] 10:00-19:00 / [Weekends & Holidays] 11:00-19:00 (Until 17:00 on June 20)
Entry: Free
Event Page: http://shopDisney.jp/store/DisneyFAN30th/
-
Exclusive Collection Releases in Collaboration with Japanese Manga Legend Osamu Tezuka
25.March.2021 | ANIME&GAME / FASHION / SPOT
HIRUME, a company in Japan that provides creative idea using Japanese traditional techniques and material, has launched an exclusive collection in collaboration with Osamu Tezuka, a Japanese manga legend, from March 24 to April 13 at HIRUME Hankyu Umeda in Osaka.
Silk Scarf “Phoenix” | ¥42,000 (tax not included)
Modal Cashmere Scarf | ¥52,000 (tax not included)
3 set of Mamezara small plates | ¥3,800 (tax not included) / single Mamezara ¥1,500 (tax not included)
2 set of Mamezara small plates | ¥2,800 (tax not included) / single Mamezara ¥1,500 (tax not included)
Osamu Tezuka changed the concept of Japanese manga and established the ways to express manga with stories that led it into the realm of art. Tezuka’s characters continue influencing all genres, including literature and movies from generations to generations. His eternal theme of life and its preciousness was pierced in all his works which continue sending powerful messages.
The collection has inspired by Tezuka’s manga series Phoenix, his life work that he continued to work passionately until his late years, and Black Jack, which is still popular overwhelmingly among the doctors. The silk scarf embellishes prints of Black Jack. Mamezara the small plates come with 2 designs of Phoenix and Black Jacks gorgeously.
The collection with Osamu Tezuka’s manga that you can enjoy in your daily life is unmissable.
Information
HIRUME × TEZUKA CHARACTERS
Running :From March 24 ,2021 to April 13,2021
Address: 61 Koto Koto Stage 6F, Umeda Hnakyu, Osaka
Official Site:https://www.hirume.jp
-
Animal Crossing: New Horizons Releases Osaka’s City of Daito as Accessible Island
17.March.2021 | ANIME&GAME
The city of Daito in Osaka teamed up with the Nintendo Switch title Animal Crossing: New Horizons to release the city as an accessible island, Daito Island, on March 10.
Every March, Daito hosts a PR event to promote the city. Due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, the event has seen strict restrictions that do not allow social gatherings. In order that the event not be cancelled entirely, Daito is collaborating with Animal Crossing: New Horizons to promote the city in-game with stalls, historical content like traditional armour and Iimoriyama Castle, and more.
Visitors to the island will receive three kinds of Miyoshi Nagayoshi armour, a family crest, and a hat and outfit of Daito’s city mascot Daiton. These are available until April 30.
The access code is: DA-1888-0815-5276
Information
Animal Crossing Daito Island
Released: March 10, 2021
Code: DA-1888-0815-5276
Official Website: https://www.nintendo.co.jp/switch/acbaa/index.html
-
Osaka’s Limited-Time Pompompurin Cafe Reveals Second Menu Line-Up
The limited-time Pompompurin Cafe, which is running at Fruits Parlour + Bakery Season&Co. at Links Umeda in Osaka, has revealed its second menu line-up which will be served from March 15 to April 12.
Pompompurin Cafe
2nd Menu
Pompompurin Tart | ¥1,540 (Tax Included)
Pompompurin Milkshake | ¥990 (Tax Included)
NMB48 x Pompompurin Vanilla & Strawberry Cake | ¥770 (Tax Included)
The second menu captures the adorable world of Sanrio’s popular character Pompompurin. There’s also a special dessert made in collaboration with Osaka-based idol group NMB48, as well as exclusive merchandise.
Information
Fruits Parlour + Bakery Season&Co.
Address: LINKS UMEDA Floor 1F, Ofukacho, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka
Opening Hours: 9:30-21:00 (Last Orders 20:00)
Official Website: https://season-co.shop