Geoffrey Bouillot x Masahito Noto Launch Welcome Katsushika Art Project
Tokyo-based French artist Geoffrey Bouillot has teamed up with Japanese footballer Masahito Noto to launch the Welcome Katsushika Art Project, an artistic initiative to help promote the Tokyo ward of Katsushika by using it as a tourist spot to exhibit their works throughout the town and developing new collaborative items with traditional Japanese crafts as a crowdfunding return.
Katsushika will be decorated with new artwork that will act as photo spots for tourists and sightseers, and the project will collaborate with professionals throughout the town, all in an effort to help revitalise the tourism and traditional industries of Katsushika which have been affected by COVID-19.
Geoffrey Bouillot
Geoffrey Bouillot is a French artist based in Tokyo. In 2019, he was featured as a guest artist at Shibamata Art World, an art event held in Shibamata, Tokyo. His monochromic pieces make use of grey-scale painting and combine cubism and minimalism.
Masahito Noto
Masahito Noto is a Japanese professional footballer and athlete. He is also an artist whose artistic process involves layering paint to create unique pieces.
The project has developed items in collaboration with traditional craftwork companies, such Edo Kiriko glass-cutting with Shimizu Glass and wazarashi hand towels with Tokyo Wazarashi. These will be donated as a return for the crowdfunding that was required to fund this project.
There will also be an art panel showcased by the local soccer team Nankatsu SC as well as items made in collaboration with businesses such as t-shirts and hoodies by CON±RAD, soccer cleats by BMZ, blueberry brownies with a local eatery, and much more.
Information
Welcome Katsushika Art Project
Official Website: https://readyfor.jp/projects/WelcomeKatsushika
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Limited Edition Sake Released Alongside NFT Art to Share the Value of Japanese Spirits with the World
Two incredible new Junmai Daiginjo bottles, the highest-quality sake, have been released in limited quantities. Hitou ASCENDING and Touka ILLUMINATING were made by sustainable means and incorporate NFT art to share the process of sake creation with the world.
While sake companies keep traditional Japanese production methods alive, some are seeking to solve problems in the sake industry by turning to current technology, like the blockchain and NFTs. In this age of convenience and automation, this particular sake maker is aiming to show the true value and authenticity of Japanese craftsmanship to the rest of the world.
Certain types of sake can only be made and enjoyed at certain times of the year, as they are not suitable for storage at room temperature and can only be consumed for a brief period to get the best taste. Many sake fans around the world might not be aware of this, so the new NFT collaboration aims to educate!
The bottles contain unique ukiyo-e NFT art prints of a dragon and phoenix on the bottle, respectively. Those who purchase a bottle will also find the year of production and bottle number etched onto the glass with lacquer. Be sure to keep the bottle even after the delicious sake is gone!
Story
Rice / Tobe Rice
In Tokamachi, Niigata Prefecture, farmers have been cultivating this unique brand of Koshihikari rice without the help of pesticides or fertilizers for over two decades. The rice is called the best in all of Japan, and one-third of its yield is used to make sake.Water / Pure Groundwater
The Japan Median Tectonic Line, also known as the ‘Dragon’s Vein,’ is a massive fault line that is home to numerous sacred sites, including Suwa Grand Shrine, Toyokawa Inari Shrine, Tenkawa Benzaiten Shrine, Ise Grand Shrine, and the Koyasan Mountain. The groundwater found here is some of the purest found in Japan and flows from the Bungui Pass in Ina, Nagano Prefecture. The pass has been featured in many publications as one of the most famous power spots in Japan.
Brewing / Ono Brewery
While dealing with some of the harshest winter weather in Japan, the brewery has continued to create sake the old-fashioned way–with human hands. For the creation of these two bottles, the brewers took on the challenge of making a very small amount of sake, something they had never done before. Based on the concept of “making the most of the environment,” the rice was prepared in a special room with no air conditioning under the watchful eye of the master brewer.
Bottle Art/ Ukiyo-e Artist, Shun
The art displayed on the bottle is printed in a unique way, allowing it to be put on display separately. The Japanese-style art is perfect for the collaboration and was inspired by one specific hope: that a new path will open to those who work hard after the many difficulties and troubles caused by the pandemic.Bottle Making / Maruyoshi Kosaka Wood & Urushi Works
The circular label symbolizes the moon (water) and the sun (fire), each representing a world where different values are not only accepted but welcomed. Hand-painted and made with pure platinum and gold leaf by the talented craftsman at Maruyoshi Kosaka Wood & Urushi Works in Shiojiri, Nagano, these advanced painting techniques are sure to impress.
Each Bottle Features the Brewing Year, Number Printed in Lacquer
Marked with a unique serial number, all proceeds from the sales of these special sakes will be used to maintain and promote sustainable agriculture, support sake brewers, and bring traditional Japanese craftsmanship to the world.
Information
Junmai Daiginjo – ‘Hitou ASCENDING,’ ‘Touka ILLUMINATING’
Limited Quantity
Official Site: https://hitoutouka.com/ -
BT21 Amusement Park Event to Open in Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka
NAMJATOWN, a theme park located in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, will be holding a special BT21 event from May 14 until June 12, 2022! The ‘BT21 MerryLand ~Welcome to our Dreamy World!~’ event celebrates the popular LINE FRIENDS characters, and guests can enjoy lots of games and treats!
The event recreates MerryLand, an amusement park in the BT21 member’s dreams. Guests can participate in three unique mini-games inspired by amusement park attractions, along with a stamp rally and riddle-solving game! Original merchandise and menu items will also be available.Original Mini-Games
BT21 MerryLand Spinning Ferris Wheel / BT21’s Whirling Teacups ♪ / The Full Stomach Yum-yum Wagon
Mini-Game Prizes
A Prize: Relaxing Cushion (7 varieties)
B Prize: Bandana (7 varieties)
C Prize: Mini Acrylic Stand (7 varieties, random)
D Prize: Character Pin (7 varieties, random)
*The design for A Prize and B Prize will differ depending on the mini-game.
(Guests can choose the design for each game.)
*For C Prize and D Prize, the design is the same for all mini-games.Venue Exclusive Project! Rally Game
Rally Game Prizes
Participation Prize: Mascot Rubber Charm (7 varieties, random)
*Prizes are the same for each Rally Game.Original Merchandise
Original Food & Drinks
Soft Drink with Acrylic Coaster / Fortune Latte (14 varieties) / Icing Cookie (7 varieties)
Those unable to attend the event can head to the Namco Parks Online Store to play some web-based mini-games offering the same prizes! Certain pieces of merchandise will also be available for purchase online.Following Tokyo, the event will head to HEP FIVE in Osaka from July 2 until July 24 and Canal City Hakata in Fukuoka from August 5 until August 28.
©Bandai Namco Amusement Inc.
Information
BT21 MerryLand
Tokyo Event
Venue: NAMJATOWN
Address: Sunshine City World Import Part Building 2F/3F (3-1-3 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo)
Running: May 14 – June 12
Osaka Event
Venue: Hugood! from NAMJATOWN
Address: HEP FIVE 9F (5-15 Kakudacho, Kita-ku, Osaka)
Running: July 2 – July 24, 2022
Fukuoka Event
Venue: Namco Canal City Hakata
Address: Canal City Hakata South Building B1F (1-2-74 Sumiyoshi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka)
Running: August 5 – August 28, 2022
Online Sales / Online Lottery Wheelhttps://parks2.bandainamco-am.co.jp/
Sales Period: May 16, 11:00 – June 13, 23:59
Official Site: https://event.bandainamco-am.co.jp/cx/bt21-merryland/ -
teamLab Opens 8th Annual Art Exhibition at Mifuneyama Rakuen in Saga Prefecture
From July 15 until November 6, 2022, the ‘teamLab: A Forest Where Gods Live’ exhibition at Mifuneyama Rakuen, an ancient forest at the Takeo Hot Springs in Saga Prefecture. The massive event is held each summer and fall and was named CNN World’s ‘Best Outdoor Art Exhibition to Visit’ in 2021 and one of the Top 10 Art Installations in the world by DesignboomMagazine in 2017.
Works on Display
Universe of Water Particles on a Sacred Rock, 2017
Drawing on the Water Surface Created by the Dance of Koi and Boats – Mifuneyama Rakuen Pond, 2015
Ever Blossoming Life Rock, 2017
Life is Continuous Light – Azalea Valley, 2017
Rock Wall Spatial Calligraphy, Continuous Life – Five Hundred Arhats, 2017
Split Rock and Enso, 2017
Resonating Forest – Cherry Blossoms and Maple, 2017
Megaliths in the Bath House Ruins, 2019
Graffiti Nature – Living in the Ruins of a Bathhouse, Red List, 2017-
Resonating Forest in the Ravine, 2019
Abstract and Concrete – Forest Entrance, 2018
Flowers Bloom in an Infinite Universe inside a Teacup, 2016
Forest and Spiral of Resonating Lamps in the Forest – One Stroke, Summer Forest, 2018
Mifuneyama is said to have risen from the Ariake Sea 3 million years ago. The 500,000 square meter Mifuneyama Rakuen Park was created in 1845, at the end of the Edo period. The park is home to megaliths, caves, and forests that have been slowly shaped over thousands of years. teamLab believes that the shapes and textures of these objects are important, serving as traces of ancient people and natural changes over time. The concept of the project is that non-material digital technology can turn nature into art without harming it.
The creative team will be holding a number of other high-profile exhibitions this year, including installations in Paris, Tallinn, Shanghai, and Geneva. Their sauna collaboration with TikTok for teamLab Reconnect in Roppongi made huge waves in 2021–guests would take alternating hot and cold baths to experience intense physical sensations while surrounded by digital art.Information
teamLab: A Forest Where Gods Live
Running: July 15 – November 6, 2022
Location: Mifuneyama Rakuen (4100 Takeo, Takeocho Oaza Takeo, Takeo City, Saga)
Official Site: https://www.teamlab.art/jp/e/mifuneyamarakuen/ -
Fendi and Harajuku Omotesando Keyaki-kai Collaborate on #FendiTsunaguOmotesando Art Project
Italian luxury fashion brand Fendi has teamed up with Harajuku Omotesando Keyaki-kai on a new street art project! ‘TSUNAGU – Omotesando Street Art Project’ was unveiled on April 29, 2022.
The project, which aims to improve the city’s scenery and share positive messages, is on display in Omotesando, a popular area with young people. The canvas is the formal site of the Oriental Bazaar, an iconic part of Omotesando for over four decades. Under the theme of ‘hope,’ three young artists will be displaying their artwork in a massive temporary enclosure on the site. Hopefully, Japan really will open tourism soon so that guests from around the world can enjoy these inspiring pieces!
The first piece of art was unveiled on April 29 and was drawn by Dai Tamura, a young Japanese artist who has attracted worldwide attention after becoming an illustrator for the NBA. The dynamic and powerful compositions vividly depict endangered animals and plants alongside delicate flowers to symbolize hope for the futures of these beautiful creatures.
Be sure to keep an eye out for the next installation coming soon!Information
TSUNAGU – Omotesando Street Art Project
Location: Oriental Bazaar Former Site
Address: 5-9-13 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Official Site: http://www.fendi.com
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Special Shop to Open in Tokyo and Kanagawa to Celebrate the Release of Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero
10.May.2022 | ANIME&GAME / MOVIE / SPOT
A special pop-up store celebrating the upcoming Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero film is coming to four locations in Tokyo and Kanagawa! The film is scheduled to be released on June 11, 2022, and fans can pick up some exclusive merchandise at Shinjuku Station, Kawasaki Station, Ikebukuro Station, and Akihabara Station. The dates are listed below!
Exclusive Products
Special Bonus
Product Lineup
Shop Displays
The pop-up shop will feature exclusive items decorated with popular imagery from the Dragon Ball series. Fans will also be able to grab some home goods themed around the Capsule House where Bulma lives!
As a purchase bonus, customers spending ¥2,500 or more will receive a special holographic sticker!
Each venue will be decorated, so enjoy taking some photos with your family and friends.
Information
DRAGON BALL POP-UP STORE BY FLOWERING
Locations/Dates:
Shinjuku Station / April 25 – May 8
Kawasaki Station / May 17 – May 24
Ikebukuro Station / June 1 – June 9
Akihabara Station / June 14 – June 23
Official Site: https://www.jr-cross.co.jp/
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Kyary Pamyu Pamyu Collaborates with 153-year-old Kimuraya Bakery for LOCAL POWER JAPAN Project
Last month, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu performed on the Gobi Stage at Coachella, one of the largest music festivals in the United States. Her Weekend 1 performance was streamed live worldwide and trended on Twitter in both the U.S. and Japan. After an accident during the second weekend left the singer alone on stage, many wondered if she could pull of a dazzling performance. Kyary’s joy and excitement completely transfixed the massive crowd, and the artist has drawn praise from around the world for her talent and passion.
Kyary has returned to Japan to continue her ‘Kyary Pamyu Pamyu 10th ANNIVERSARY JAPAN TOUR 2022 CANDY WAVE,’ seeing the singer performing 30 shows across Japan. On May 7, she’ll perform at LINE CUBE SHIBUYA in Tokyo.
In conjunction with the nationwide tour, the LOCAL POWER JAPAN Project was launched to energize Japan through the appeal of regional towns and cities and has been attracting major attention. To celebrate the Tokyo leg of the tour, a new Tokyo collab has been announced!
Kyary is teaming up with Kimuraya Sohonten, a bakery that has been in business for over 150 years. The brand is known for inventing the anpan sweet bun in 1874. Given how much this simple food has influenced Japanese culture, it seems appropriate to team up with Kyary–the singer has brought Japanese influence around the world and continues to inspire fans with her creativity and sweetness.
For the collaboration, fans will be able to purchase the aptly-named ‘Ninjari Anpan,’ based on Kyary’s hit song Ninjari Bang Bang released in 2013. The limited-edition set includes five different flavors of anpan and shows Kyary in her ninja attire on the box. Concertgoers can purchase these sweets at the show on May 7, and they will also be available at select Kimuraya stores and online.
A collaborative T-shirt is also on sale featuring the new logo and the singer’s 10th-anniversary logo. The shirt is available on the LOCAL POWER JAPAN Project website for two weeks only. Support Japanese businesses and pick one up while you can!
Information
LOCAL POWER JAPAN project × 木村屋總本店
Official Site:https://localpowerjapan.com
Ninjari Anpan
Where to Buy:
24 Kimuraya LocationsAvailable: May 3 – June 5, 2022
Shop List: https://www.kimuraya-sohonten.co.jp/shoplist
Kimuraya Online ShopAvailable: May 3 – May 31, 2022
https://kimuraya-net.jp/shop
Kimuraya (Tokyo) x LOCAL POWER JAPAN Project Collaboration T-shirt
Where to Buy:
LOCAL POWER JAPAN Project Online ShopAvailable: May 3 – May 16, 2022
https://store-localpowerjapan.com/ -
Popular illustrator and alcohol ink artist Jiji will release her first artbook in May!
Images
Behind-the-Scenes
This is the first collection of works by Jiji to be compiled and released. ‘Jiji ILLUSTRATION AND MAKING BOOK’ will include around 110 illustrations, including both past creations and new images made exclusively for the book’s release. The compiled illustrations were made in a variety of ways, including with alcohol ink, fountain pens, and by digital means.
Information
Jiji ILLUSTRATION & MAKING BOOK
Release Date: May 2022
Price: ¥2,530 (Tax Included)
ISBN:978-4-7661-3631-9
https://www.hanmoto.com/bd/isbn/9784766136319 -
BTS Characters ‘TinyTAN’ to Appear at Cafes in Tokyo, Yokohama, Osaka, Nagoya, and Miyagi
The popular BTS chibi characters TinyTAN will be featured at TinyTAN Cafe locations in five cities for a limited time! Nine locations will be open across Tokyo, Yokohama, Osaka, Nagoya, and Miyagi starting April 21, 2022.
The TinyTAN characters were designed by the seven members of BTS to embody their “second selves.”
Select Cakes: ¥990
Fruits Deco Style: Strawberry, Fruits Deco Style: Mango, Fruits Deco Style: White Grape: ¥1,760
The menu is packed with desserts, including seven different types of cakes each inspired by a member of TinyTAN.
American Sundae Style Chocolate Cookie, American Sundae Style Caramel Nuts, American Sundae Style Pistachio Honey: ¥1,870
Afternoon Style Tea: ¥3,190
The Afternoon Style Tea includes a base plate that can be customized with guest’s favorite fruits and chocolates. Two types of TinyTAN Select Cakes will also be included to share!
Ham (2 types) & Scrambled Egg Peanut Butter Sandwich: ¥1,760
Cafe Style Drink & Cake Set *Prices vary based on drink selection.
Guests can choose from colorful bagel sandwiches, pancakes, and open sandwiches, along with a selection of sweet drinks to match each meal.
Bonuses
Acrylic Stand (7 varieties, random): ¥1,320
Sticky Note Roll: ¥880, Acrylic Nameplate (7 varieties): ¥990 each
Original cafe merchandise and special offers will make visiting the TinyTAN Cafe even more exciting!
© BIGHIT MUSIC. All Rights Reserved
Information
TinyTAN CAFE
Tokyo, Omotesando: BOX cafe&space Omotesando
April 21 – June 5, 2022
Pine Under Flat B1F (5-13-2 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)
Tokyo, Shinjuku: BOX cafe&space Lumine EST Shinjuku
April 28 – July 3, 2022
Lumine EST Shinjuku B1F (3-38-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo)
Tokyo, Harajuku: BOX cafe&space Harajuku Alta
April 21 – June 5, 2022
Harajuku Alta 3F (1-16-4 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)
Tokyo, Omotesando: BOX cafe&space Omotesando Hills
April 21 – June 26, 2022
Main Building, B3F (4-12-10 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)
Kanagawa, Yokohama: Collabo_Index Lumine Yokohama
April 22 – June 19, 2022
Lumine Yokohama 6F (2-16-1 Takashima, Nishi-ku, Yokohama)
Aichi, Nagoya: BOX cafe&space Nagoya LACHIC #1
April 28 – June 5, 2022
LACHIC B1F (3-6-1 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya)
Osaka, Umeda: BOX cafe&space HEP FIVE
April 28 – June 5, 2022
HEP FIVE 7F (5-15 Kakudacho, Kita-ku, Osaka)
Osaka, Shinsaibashi: Shinsaibashi contact
April 29 – July 3, 2022
1-6-24 Kitahorie, Nishi-ku, Osaka
Miyagi, Rifu: BALLER:S
April 27 – June 26, 2022
AEON MALL Shin-Rifu South Building 2F (3-1-1 Shinnakamichi, Rifu, Miyagi)
Reservations Open
Reservation Fee: ¥660 (Includes Bonus)
TinyTAN CAFE Official Site: https://tinytan-cafe.jp/
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Tasty Half-Moon Sandwiches Coming in Second Doraemon Tokyo Banana Collaboration
18.April.2022 | ANIME&GAME / FOOD
Doraemon Tokyo Banana Half-Moon Sandwiches are coming on April 1, 2022! These tasty snacks come in a pack of eight and are sure to make the perfect gift.
This release of Doraemon Tokyo Banana is celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Tokyo Banana brand and the 50th anniversary of Doraemon. Why not enjoy your daily snack time with these cute treats?
Each sandwich is filled with chocolate-banana cream with the dough baked into a crispy, savory crust with a winking Doraemon on both sides.
©Fujiko-Pro,Shogakukan,TV-Asahi,Shin-ei,and ADK ※画像はイメージです
Information
Doraemon Tokyo Banana Half-Moon Sandwich
Where to Buy: JR Tokyo Station Hanagataya Tokyo Chuo Doraemon Tokyo Banana Tokyo Station, Daimaru Tokyo Tokyo Banana Studio 1F – STUDIO
Release Date: April 1, 2022
Details: https://www.tokyobanana.jp/products/banana_doraemon.htmlOfficial Site: https://www.tokyobanana.jp/
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HERALBONY GALLERY to Hold 8th Original Exhibition Highlighting Artists with Disabilities
16.April.2022 | FASHION / Uncategorized
HERALBONY is currently holding its 8th exhibition of original paintings featuring pieces by Kaoru Iga. The art is available to view at the HERALBONY GALLERY in Iwate Prefecture, which showcases creations made by artists with disabilities.
Kaoru Iga’s colorful artwork features unique textures and an abstract worldview. The works featured will be on sale at the gallery and on the official HERALBONY online store.
Kaoru Iga
Iga’s paintings don’t show any specific objects or people, rather focusing on color, shape, and texture. Some pieces are rough, some pieces are gentle, and some utilize various textures or overlapping lines. Together, the works are like a single piece of music consisting of multiple movements.
Iga, who has played the cello for many years and honed his ability to connect with others without words, reminds viewers of the simpler aspects of life on Earth. Each day, we are met with a barrage of information and chatter–what is it like to cut all of that out?
The artists featured at HERALBONY will continue creating in the hopes of finding worldwide recognition.
Information
HERALBONY GALLERY 8th Exhibition ‘The Art of Kaoru Iga’
Artist: Kaoru Iga
Exhibition Open until May 8, 2022
Hours: 12:00-19:00
Address: HOMEDLUX Building 4F (2-38 Kaiunbashidori, Morioka, Iwate Prefecture)
Admission: FreeHERALBONY Online Store: https://heralbony.com/collections/original-painting
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History of OSAMU GOODS to be on Display in ‘OSAMU GOODS 45th Anniversary Exhibition’
Palette Club, a school for illustrators located in Tsukiji, will be holding a 45th Anniversary exhibition for OSAMU GOODS! The characters were created in 1976 by Osamu Harada, who is from Tsukiji, and Dusty Miller. Items featuring these adorable characters are still incredibly popular to this day.
Exclusive Merchandise
Rare original drawings, prints, and goods from the 1970s to the 1990s, as well as Dusty Miller store bags and fan club newsletters, will be on display during the event. Those more nostalgic about these characters and those new to them will both find something to enjoy!
Information
OSAMU GOODS 45th Anniversary Exhibition
Running: April 12 – May 22, 2022
Hours: 13:00-19:00 (Last Entry at 18:30)
*Closed Mondays
Admission: FreeVenue: Palette Club School (4-11-10 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo)
Information: https://www.osamugoods.com/
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NAKED Collaborates with Uta no Prince-sama Game for Special Art Installation
14.April.2022 | ANIME&GAME / SPOT
Creative company NAKED is bringing the world of Uta no Prince-sama to life! From April 16 until April 24, fans will want to come to Ikebukuro Sunshine Plaza to see MAJI LOVE KINGDOM MEMORIES, a sensory photo booth decorated with floral art.
The first Uta no Prince-sama game was released in 2010, with an anime series following in 2011. In 2019, the first Uta no Prince-sama film, Maji LOVE Kingdom, was released.
NAKED’s project mapping and digital art are being used to create unique photo booths where guests can take pictures with their favorite idols as seen in the 2019 film.
Each photo booth was created using a variety of techniques, combining video, sound, scent, and even wind. The flowers included in each booth were inspired by the flowers that members of ST☆RISH, QUARTET NIGHT, and HE★VENS wear on their chests. How often do you get to experience a 3D photo booth with your favorite fictional boys?
Guests can also enjoy a unique AR experience at the venue by using NAKED INC PLAY!
©︎UTA☆PRI-MOVIE PROJECT
Information
Uta no Prince-sama on Stage: MAJI LOVE KINGDOM MEMORIES
Location: Ikebukuro Sunshine City World Import Building 4F Event Hall A
Running: April 16 – April 24, 2022
Hours: 10:00-20:00 (Last admission 60 minutes prior to closing)
*Open 10:00-17:00 on April 24Official Site: https://ml-kingdom-memories.com/