CHOCOLATE Inc. is set to open the BLUE HAMHAM POP UP STORE at Shibuya PARCO in Tokyo on May 14 and Shinsaibashi PARCO in Osaka on June 4. The pop-up shops are centred on Arimura Taishi’s characters BLUE HAMHAM.

BLUE HAMHAM are four music-eating space hamster brothers from a planet called ‘Proxima b.’ Their animations on Twitter, TikTok, and other social media platforms have garnered over 300 million views worldwide. In 2020, they began collaborating with overseas artists. Their musical animations have garnered popularity across the globe.

At the pop-up shop, fans can get their hands on over 30 new BLUE HAMHAM items. This also marks the brothers’ first pop-up shop in Osaka. From exclusives to free novelties, there’s plenty to enjoy.

At the store, fans will also be greeted by four 1-meter tall BLUE HAMHAM statues, the only ones in the world. There will be a display showing their animations, a chance to learn about the characters, and more.

©CHOCOLATE Inc.

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

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

This year’s Earth Day Tokyo will take place at Yoyogi Park from April 17-18 where messages of eco-friendliness, organic products, sustainability, ethics, and inclusiveness will be at the core of various events held as part of the festival.

This year marks Earth Day Tokyo’s 20th run as part of the global Earth Day initiative and brings together environmental NPOs, charities, and locals. Due to COVID-19, in-person events will only take place on April 17 and 18 but the festival will run online from April 17 to 25.

Earth Day Tokyo 2021 Concert

Concerts will take place across the two-day Yoyogi Park festival. Many musicians and guests have committed themselves to the future of the planet at the Earth Day Tokyo’s concerts, with past line-ups including Japan’s King of Rock Kiyoshiro Imawano, UA, BONNIE PINK, and more.

This year will see performances from Itou Seikou ITP, Kenichi Nagira, yae, scoobie do, Taiji Sato, Nozomi Nobody, hachi_Aigoz, tico moon, Rokuta Yanagiya, and Ichido Ryutei.

Market area

Every single product at the market booths has a story, and visitors will be able to hear about them from the makers in-person as they shop. And the items sold at the market will be different each day, stocking something to add a little environmental consideration into our lives.

C. W. Nicol’s “Nicol’s Forest Kitchen” sausages help plant forests

The late Welsh-born Japanese writer, actor, and singer-songwriter C. W. Nicol was the Executive Committee Chairman for Earth Day Tokyo from 2000 until his passing last year. He also launched Nicol’s Forest Kitchen in 2011 which has been a regular at Earth Day Tokyo to help protect Japan’s forests. The food stall will make an appearance this year too.

C. W. Nicol began to wonder how he could help raise people’s interest in forests as well as help revitalise forests that had been destroyed. Nicol’s Forest Kitchen project was his answer: to spread awareness through food, and in doing so, the project could help build up forests.

Visitors separate garbage themselves with the help of volunteers

At the Eco Station, volunteer staff will help direct visitors in separating garbage properly, raising awareness on the proper procedures which they can take away home with them.

Tokyu Musix Challenge is set to take place at Bunkamura Orchard Hall this year on March 7 at 18:00.

2020 saw the cancellation of music events across the world, with Japan being no exception. Shibuya, Tokyo’s hub of countless live music venues and halls, was particularly affected by the effects of the pandemic. But the energy and power that music artists hold is one they can offer to brighten up peoples’ time during today’s times. That’s where Tokyu Musix Challenge comes in, a new kind of music festival that will bring together a multitude of genres, and where better for it to be held than the cultural melting pot that is Shibuya.

This year will be the first run of the festival, where a collaboration between classical music and contemporary pop music will clash at Bunkamura Orchard Hall. The Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra, which is recognised as Japan’s oldest symphony orchestra, will play alongside acts such as Little Glee Monster, Ai Higuchi, Win Morisaki, Meimi Tamura, Kayoko Yoshizawa, ROTH BART BARON, and more. And the line-up is set to grow as more performers will be announced in the lead up to the event.

Comments from the Artists

Little Glee Monster

“We are really looking forward to feeling the fresh breeze of our music colliding with the grand scale of an orchestra. We’ll be sure to play our part so that we don’t lose to the overwhelming performance of everyone in the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra, but also so that our music complements theirs. We hope that everyone can have a good time and feel good from the strength that music has.”

Ai Higuchi

“In 2020, we may have all lived kind of complicit with so many options in front of us leading down different paths. A certain friend might have gone to a drinking party, another might not have seen their lover for a long time. What choices do we make? We become darker depending on our choices. In Shibuya, a city that continues to change, I will sing my unchanged songs.”

Win Morisaki

“Over this past year, the respect I have for the position I’m in where I can express myself has really sunk in. I’m so happy I’ve been able to get involved with this challenge. And getting to sing with an orchestra, it’s magnificent. I’m so excited about what’s to come.”

Meimi Tamura

“I can’t contain my excitement at a genre collaboration between classic, which is the foundation of music, and pop which is strongly tied to Shibuya. I think I’m going to start feeling tense at getting to perform alongside everyone in the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra and singers of all different kinds of music. We don’t have a lot of freedom today during the pandemic, but I will work my hardest so that I can deliver love through music from the city of Shibuya.”

Kayoko Yoshizawa

“My chest roars and having the opportunity to perform along side Japan’s oldest and longest-running Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra at the legendary Orchard Hall. It’s my first time experiencing singing with an orchestra, so I’m looking forward to seeing how the songs will be structured, and how my voice will sound, when we do it.”

Japanese IRL mystery game production company Haregake is launching a new game in collaboration with Cosmos Hotel Management who are known for managing the apartment hotel chain MIMARU. MIMARU Tokyo Asakusa STATION, a new branch, is set to open on April 22.

This game will take place around Asakusa in Tokyo and can be played by couples, families, and groups. The event is being carried out with all necessary COVID-19 safety measures in place and aims to get people learning more about the wonders of Asakusa with a game that incorporates elements of the district’s traditional buildings, culture, and more. It’s a chance to sightsee around one of Tokyo’s most iconic areas while solving puzzles at the same time.

The game kit can be bought at the vending machine inside MIMARU Tokyo Asakusa STATION when it opens later this month. It includes the story, which you can read below, and everything you need to get yourself started. There’s also no time limit, so players can take as long as they like while they enjoy the sights.

The Game’s Story

“I want you to find the treasure of Asakusa for me.”

So says the request that finds its ways to you – you, who are a detective.

A certain wealthy individual once resided in Asakusa.

He left a letter behind, and now this letter is in your hands.

“This map – perhaps it shows the location of this treasure.”

Will you be able to locate the treasure resting in Asakusa?

Head on out and solve the mystery as you walk around the district.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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

The incredible Hoshino Resorts BANTA CAFE, a beachside cafe which offers guests a breathtaking ocean view along the Okinawan coast, has announced the upcoming Beachside Art Festival which will take place from April 10 to May 9. The festival will bring together artwork from a range of artists born and raised in Okinawa and leading the island’s youth culture. There will be a range of events from live painting to workshops, exhibits, and more.

The participating artists have all taken part in personal art exhibits, art events, showcased their work at concerts, and more both inside and outside Japan, but due to COVID-19, many events have of course been cancelled. Beachside Art Festival will serve as a way to display their wonderful works while supporting them at the same time.

The Artist Line-Up

DENPA

nami

HAYATO MACHIDA

Chibana Yukinaga

MACHIDA visiting BANTA CAFE to check the feel of the ocean and their artwork

Vibrant artwork with the ocean as the backdrop

Visitors will be greeted by artwork dotted across various locations around BANTA CAFE. If they follow the top of the cliff down to the beach they will find sofas to sit on which have also been decorated with the artists’ artwork. Then there’s the Goro Goro Lounge with its enormous window that stretches an entire wall and offers a panoramic view of the sea. Here, visitors can look out at the artwork which will look like it’s floating above the horizon. All drinks ordered also come with a free sticker featuring artwork by the four participating artists.

Experience art-in-the-making with live painting

DENPA and MACHIDA will host their own live painting sessions where they will take inspiration from the surrounding environment.

HAYATO MACHIDA @ April 10, 2021 / April 11, 2021

DENPA @ April 18, 2021

Times: 11:00-13:00 / 14:00-17:00

Where: In front of BANTA CAFE on the beach

Price: Free

Have a go at traditional Okinawan bingata dyeing

Visitors can have a go at making their very own coasters from nine different colours using a traditional Okinawan stencilled dyeing technique known as bingata.

Running: April 24, 2021 / May 1, 2021 / May 2, 2021 / May 5, 2021

Times: 10:00 / 12:00 / 14:00 / 16:00 (Each slot lasts approx. one hour)

Capacity: 4

Where: Iwaba Terrace

Price: ¥2,000 (Tax Included)

Note: Online booking required

Take home a souvenir at the beachside museum shop

A museum shop will be open for the event on weekends and holidays where you can pick up art prints, stickers, postcards, and other mementos.

Opening Days: Weekends & Public Holidays

Opening Hours: 10:00-18:00

Where: Beachside Terrace