Fans of Japan and Japanese culture may know that Kobe’s food scene is not to be missed. A new restaurant, KANBE, is now open and tells the story of the city’s food culture. The grand opening was on November 30 in Sannomiya.  

The story begins with water, the source of Kobe’s food. The city’s famed fare like Kobe beef, Suma salmon, and seasonal vegetables  will take the stage through storytelling, projection mapping, and uniquely planed dishes. Ingredients are served to guests the same day that they are delivered to the restaurant, offering the freshest possible experience. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of drinks made in Kobe, including Nada Gogou sake and Kobe wine. These are made using Nunobiki water from the Rokko mountain range, meaning that everything guests enjoy was truly made in Kobe.

At KANBE, visitors will chat with a storyteller who weaves the story of Kobe’s food into the experience. A chef himself, he is well-versed in cooking methods, food history, and nutrition. 

The 18-meter-long counter adds to the experience by displaying seasonal scenery, the water of Nunobiki, and the night view from Mt. Rokko. Nature sounds, like the murmuring of Nunobiki Falls and the chirping of birds, also echo through the restaurant in time with the projection mapping, creating an atmosphere that feels alive.

Why not come enjoy a new kind of dining experience?

Kobe is filled with famous sightseeing spots like the nostalgic Ijinkan neighborhood and port. The city is packed with fashionable shops and restaurants and is highly regarded for its selection of tasty sweets!

The port city, with over 150 years of history, has fostered a unique and diverse culinary culture.

Recently, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu began starring in a series of promotional videos for the Gastropolis Kobe project. The artist traveled to the city to partake in plenty of delicious treats, and MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON went along for the ride! Here are some of the singer’s favorite spots around town.

Kobe, known as a city where East meets West, is lined with sweets shops that are unique to the area.

The tea salon TOOTH TOOTH Dekoboko Sabo opened in 2019 in the Kobe City Museum and offers a menu that mixes Western food and sweets with tea and ingredients from traditional Japanese cuisine. Kyary ordered the Dekoboko Sabo Afternoon Tea Set, a collection of western sweets blended with the essence of traditional Japanese flavors. Guests are invited to enjoy their tea and sweets in a one-of-a-kind space filled with Meiji period flare and retro Western furniture. Those interested will need to make a reservation, so be sure to remember the next time you’re in Kobe.

TOOTH TOOTH Decoboco Sabo

Address: 24 Kyomachi, Chuo Ward, Kobe (Inside the Kobe City Museum)

Hours: 9:30-17:30 (Last Order at 16:30) 

Closed Mondays

Official Site: https://toothtooth.com/restaurant/decoboco-sabo

The next stop was Kobe Nankin-machi, one of the three major Chinatowns in Japan. Kobe MILK is known nationwide for its Apricot Pudding, which is made with local ingredients. The raw apricot pudding is mixed with milk brought from the foot of Mt. Rokko and other ingredients from Hyogo Prefecture. Of course, Kyary ordered some, and was amazed by its fluffy texture. You can only enjoy it in Kobe–also, the shop sells other puddings mixed with seasonal fruits, so don’t miss those either!

Kobe MILK

Address: Shin-Motomachi Building 1F (1 Motomachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Kobe)

Hours: Weekdays 9:30-19:00 / Weekends 9:30-19:30

Official Site: https://kobe-milk.com

For Kyary’s final stop, the singer visited the Moore House, a cafe located in a building with over 100 years of history. Guests are surrounded by greenery, and the Western-style building is incredibly elegant. The Strawberry Mille-feuille Kyary ordered was created by an expert patissier and based on the strawberry mille-feuille recipe from the legendary French restaurant Maxim’s de Paris in Ginza. A generous amount of custard cream complements the crispy pie crust and enhances the sweetness of the fresh strawberries. We’d recommend it with a glass of champagne–if you’re of age.

Kitano Ijin-kan Moore House

Address: 2-9-3 Kitanocho, Chuo-ku, Kobe

Hours: 11:00-17:00

Closed Tuesdays

Official Site: https://www.kitanomoore.com/cafe/

The streets of Kobe are packed with sweets that you can only enjoy if you visit. Why not come experience these incredible spots like Kyary did?

Kobe Sweets Trailer: https://youtu.be/Sx9B1ZdAvlI

Kobe is filled with famous sightseeing spots like the nostalgic Ijinkan neighborhood and port. The city is packed with fashionable shops and restaurants and is highly regarded for its Kobe beef restaurants and tasty local spirits.

Facing the Seto Inland Sea, Kobe is surrounded by rich nature and produces plenty of tasty veggies while also bringing in tons of fresh fish. The port city, with over 150 years of history, has fostered a unique and diverse culinary culture.

Recently, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu began starring in a series of promotional videos for the Gastropolis Kobe project. The artist traveled to the city to partake in plenty of delicious fare, and MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON tagged along. Let’s take a look at her top picks!

Kobe beef is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the name of this Japanese city, right?

Teppanyaki restaurant Tajima, located in the Kobe Portopia Hotel, serves Kobe beef along with other Japanese black beef, seafood, and seasonal vegetables.

Kyary ordered the Kobe beef loin and seasonal grilled vegetables, watching with excitement as the chef prepared the meal in front of her. The steak is made from carefully selected Kobe beef and melts in your mouth. Tajima has private rooms as well as counter seating, making it a perfect location for everything from a family get-together to a first date.

Teppanyaki Tajima

Address: Kobe Portopia Hotel 2F (6-10-1 Minatojima Nakamachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe)

Hours:

11:30-14:30

17:30-21:30 *Open at 17:00 on weekends and holidays

Open Daily

Official site：https://www.portopia.co.jp/restaurant/detail/tajima/

What goes better with Kobe beef than local sake? One area of the city, Nada Gogou, has an incredibly high concentration of sake breweries.

Nada Gogo Sake Brewery opened in April 2022 in a renovated building that was formerly the location of Kenbishi, a long-established local sake brewer with over 500 years of history.

Visitors can enjoy sake and cuisine from 26 breweries in the area under the themes of ‘Seasonal, Local, Compatible, Fermentation.’ Here, Kyary ordered the Nada Gogou Set which includes the best possible food and drink pairings. Limited to 100 servings each day, the set includes five different sake and three seasonal small plates perfecting for pairing. The drinks and food offerings change with the seasons, allowing guests to enjoy tons of unique flavors from the region no matter what time they visit.

Nada Gogou Brewery

Address: 3-11-2 Mikagehonmachi, Hagashinada-ku, Kobe

Hours: 12:00-21:00 *Opens until 20:00 on Sunday and holidays

Closed Monday-Thursday

Official Site: https://nadagogo.com/

GOCOCU is an all-day buffet restaurant in the Kobe Portopia Hotel where guests can enjoy dishes using carefully selected ingredients from the five Hyogo provinces (Settsu, Harima, Tajima, Tanba, and Awaji) with a spectacular view of Kobe. Visitors can enjoy the chef’s specialties including roasted and grilled dishes cooked in a custom-made stone oven. The restaurant is also known for its selection of alcoholic beverages, and Kyary enjoyed the Fukuju Junmai Ginjo. This particular sake has won many awards in Japan and abroad, including a gold medal at the National Sake Competition for three consecutive years. Popular for its smooth rice flavor, this well-loved brand uses rice and rice malt grown in Hyogo Prefecture. Adults can enjoy this and many more delicious beverages during buffet hours and cocktail hours after 8:30 or 9:00 on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.

GOCOCU ~Blessings of the Five Kingdoms~

Address: Kobe Portopia Hotel 30F (6-10-1 Minatojima Nakamachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe)

Hours: 7:00-10:30, 11:30-15:00, 17:30-21:00, 20:30-23:00

Open Daily

Official Site: https://www.portopia.co.jp/restaurant/detail/gococu/

Founded in 1659, Kiku Masamune is a leader in the sake industry. We visited the Kiku Masamune Sake Factory, opened to commemorate the 50th anniversary of its handy barreled sake, perfect for allowing customers to enjoy barrel-aged sake at home easily. Visitors can enjoy browsing sake barrels, with many created using traditional barrel making techniques that are still used today. They can also enjoy an exhibition of Yoshino cedar, the material used to make the barrels. Tours are by appointment only. Reservations are taken on a first-come, first-served basis, so early reservations are recommended!

Kiku Masamune Sake Factory

Address: Uozaki Nishimachi, Higashinada-ku, Kobe

Tour Times: 10:30~, 14:00~, 15:00~ (Each tour is approximately 30 minutes.)

Closed during New Year’s holidays.

Official Site: https://www.kikumasamune.co.jp/tarusake-mf/

*No outside food or beverages are allowed inside the factory. Tastings are available at the Memorial Hall after the tour.

After reading this, you’re interested in coming to Kobe, right? Enjoy some of this savory fare the next time you’re in the area. 

Kobe Beef Version:https://youtu.be/-HrNq6JGO3A

Nada Sake Version: https://youtu.be/cd9_f59NWIw

Over the past few decades, Star Wars has become one of the most beloved properties with fans around the world.

Grogu, known by many fans as Baby Yoda, first appeared in The Mandalorian, a series on Disney+ currently celebrating its third anniversary. 

With his mysterious background and incredible use of the Force, the tiny and adorable character became a hit with fans around the world, quickly making him one of the most popular characters in the recent Star Wars series.

World-renowned Japanese animation studio Studio Ghibli recently produced a short animation starring Grogu and Makkuro Kurosuke, also known as the Wandering Soot or, in the title for the short, Dust Bunnies. The characters first appeared in the film My Neighbor Totoro.

Studio Ghibli director Hayao Miyazaki and producer Toshio Suzuki have long been friends with Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy, who readily agreed to produce the short as a symbol of their longstanding friendship. The short was directed by Katsuya Kondo.

Will you give this a watch on Disney+?

（C）2022 & TM Lucasfilm Ltd.（C）2022 Studio Ghibli.

From November 9 until December 25, the Disney HARVEST MARKET by CAFE COMPANY Shibuya Hikarie location will be offering a special Christmas menu and exclusive holiday merchandise. 

The location’s popular Afternoon Tea Party set will see a Christmas makeover, and a limited number of original Christmas cards will only be handed out to those who order one. Other menu items include a Stew Plate with Meatballs and Vegetables, Minnie’s Berry and Cocoa Mousse, and plenty more tasty treats to get visitors into the holiday spirit. 

Menu

HAPPY CHRISTMAS! Afternoon Tea Set (Christmas Exclusive)

Original Christmas Cards (Limited quantity, not for sale)

​Meatball and Vegetable Stew Plate

Berry & Cocoa Miss Sweet Mousse ~Minnie Style~　

Berry Dot Cioccolata

Holiday Fruit & Spice Tea

Exclusive Goods

Almond Chocolate

A 2.7-meter-high pure white statue of Mickey Mouse will welcome guests to the location, which will be filled with Christmas decorations. Come enjoy a fun Christmas season

Kyary Pamyu Pamyu is now starring in a series of promotional videos for Gastropolis Kobe, a project aiming to share the city’s incredible food culture with both domestic and international travelers. The project began on November 3, 2022.

[Kobe Beef Version]　https://youtu.be/-HrNq6JGO3A

In the new videos, Kyary experiences the wonders of Kobe beef as well as local sake and desserts while exploring the city’s best sightseeing spots. T

The main video will be aired on a massive screen near Shibuya Station in Tokyo starting in mid-November, and will also be available to watch online.

[Nada Sake Version]　https://youtu.be/cd9_f59NWIw

[Kobe Sweets Version] https://youtu.be/Sx9B1ZdAvlI

To celebrate the campaign, four popular restaurants in Tokyo will participate in the Gastropolis Kobe Fair, inviting guests to enjoy cuisine from the capital of Hyogo Prefecture.

Interview with Kyary Pamyu Pamyu

Q: After filming, what was your impression of Kobe? 

A:  “I took pictures in all kinds of places, but honestly, they were all so close to each other. It was easy to get around and see everything–it only took between 15 and 20 minutes to get somewhere, and shooting went smoothly, so I was really able to enjoy every second!”

Q: What’s your overall impression of Kobe’s cuisine?

A: “There was so much amazing food. Everything was delicious and I ate and drink so much…because of how much drinking was involved in this shoot, I felt like food and alcohol were really connected in Kobe. Even between takes, the staff would ask if I wanted to try something or have another drink. I was so moved by the warmth and kindness of the people I met. This trip was filled with love and hospitality.”

Q: You traveled around Kobe, right? What was your favorite place? 

A: “I love fashion and history, and Kobe had so many incredible historical buildings. I wanted to have tea at a place like that, and the view at night was unbelievable. I thought it was a great date spot or even a place you could spend time with your family and friends. I loved watching the big boats in the harbor.” 

Q: There are only two months left in 2022. Is there anything you still want to do? 

A: “I’ve been on my Japan tour since January, so I’d finally like to relax a little bit. Maybe eat some good food and go to a hot spring. 

Q: Do you have a message for the readers?

A: “The two days of shooting in Kobe were incredible. The weather was perfect, the food was delicious, and the drinks were divine. I’d love to return on my own trip! I hope everyone enjoys the videos!”

ANNA’S by Landtmann, a cafe located inside +Q Beauty on the 6th floor of Shibuya Scramble Square, has begun selling two Halloween cakes! These spooky sweets will be available until October 31, 2022.

Halloween Mont Blanc

Halloween Poison Apple

Guests will be able to snag the Halloween Mont Blanc and Halloween Poison Apple cakes, available for ¥580 each including tax. The Mont Blanc is filled with pumpkin custard and Chantilly cream. The Poison Apple is a sweet and sour cake featuring a blend of chocolate mousse covered in red glaze and applesauce with apple pulp.

Which of these two adorable cakes would you like to enjoy this autumn?

Keio Plaza Hotel in Tokyo will hold a special Christmas-themed Sylvanian Families buffet starting November 1, 2022. This is the second Sylvanian Families event following the previous Halloween-themed buffet, which became extremely popular. Some guests even bring their own Sylvanian Families dolls!

Starting in November, visitors can enjoy a full lineup of 20 scrumptious dishes inspired by the cake shop found in Sylvania Village. Some sweets are also inspired by the many beloved characters found in the series, and anyone wanting to get into the Christmas spirit won’t want to miss this exclusive event. For those without a sweet tooth, some light lunches will also be available.

The restaurant will also erect a decorative display of Sylvanian Families enjoying a Christmas party and a sweet diorama made exclusively of desserts by the pasty chef. Guests can enjoy tea time while getting lost in this magical world, so get excited about the Christmas season!

1. Sweets Inspired by the World of Sylvanian Families

2. Become Enthralled by a Wonderful Winter World of Sweets

3. Exclusive! Sweets Diorama and Sylvanian Families Photo Spot

4. Light Meals Perfect for Winter and Burgers Featuring Original Illustrations

5. A Special Plan to Enjoy the Buffet with Sylvanian Families Babies

Popular Japanese accessories brand Maison de FLEUR has started selling new goods as part of the Disney Collection. This time, Baymax from Big Hero 6 takes center stage, and items are available now at Maison de FLEUR locations nationwide and online.

The company chose Manami Enosawa to model the collection–a fitting choice, as Baymax is her favorite Disney character. Enosawa will also act as the director of the apparel brand ARUMDY starting this fall.

The Baymax collection features a total of eight items perfect for everyday use. Fans can find everything from slippers featuring the robot’s face to bags, charms, and pouches perfect for bringing to school or carrying around town. 

Come enjoy Maison de FLEUR’s newest goods featuring Baymax, one of the most popular Disney characters in recent memory.

From October 21 until November 30, 2022, Hilton Tokyo Odaiba will hold the Touken Ranbu ONLINE Special Buffet ~Black & White~ event! This second collaboration with the popular series will be held Grillogy Bar and Grill on the second floor.

Dessert Menu

Drink Menu

Drink Order Bonus: Original Coaster (8 varieties)

At the buffet, guests can enjoy luxurious dishes inspired by characters from the sword-centered game and anime series. The desserts blend Japanese and Western cuisine, and special cocktails will be available during the first phase, each coming with a special coaster as a bonus! In addition, original goods will be on sale at the venue, so don’t miss it!

Chip ‘n Dale will appear in a new bedding collection from the roomwear brand gelato pique! As part of the gelato pique Sleep collection, the adorable chipmunks will appear on a number of new products inspired by the theme of ‘getting ready for bed.’ Fans of the characters won’t want to miss the body pillow, nightcap, pillowcase, and other products sure to liven up your bedroom and sleep routine!

Merch Lineup

Chip ‘n Dale / 3-piece Set (Single)

Chip ‘n Dale Jacquard Cover

Chip ‘n Dale Jacquard Pillowcase

Chip ‘n Dale Nightcap

Chip ‘n Dale Body Pillow

The products will go on sale on the official site and online department store USAGI ONLINE starting on September 20, 2022 at 12:00 PM. They will also be available to purchase in select stores starting October 14.

From October 1 until October 31, Yokohama Royal Park Hotel will hold a special Halloween Fair at its delicatessen and lounge Coffret. In addition to six playful sweets from the Halloween Frankenstein to the Halloween Mummy, two types of autumn bread featuring pumpkin and purple sweet potato will be available, allowing guests to enjoy the taste of the season!

Halloween Frankenstein

Halloween Cat

Halloween Mont Blanc

Halloween Mummy

Halloween Pudding

Halloween Pound Cake

Pumpkin Cream Fondue / Halloween Anpan

Come enjoy this Halloween with some cute and silly sweets!