【Tokyo Stroll】A Day Out At: Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden—An Oasis In The Middle Of Tokyo!

23.June.2017 | FEATURES / SPOT

 

The scenery and its Japanese aesthetic

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In the middle of the garden is the pond which is made of stone, and which was inspired by the West Lake located in Hangzhou, China. It is a place highly esteemed as the subject of poetry and paintings. Koi, or carp, swim in the pond elegantly, and you’ll be healed by their grace by just looking at them.

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The majestic arrangement of stone around the pond is also worthy of note. They are arranged in a style known as ‘karetaki,’ which closely resembles the falling water of a waterfall found in a mountain valley. I highly recommend taking time to appreciate the craftmanship that has gone into the work as you walk.

 

Snap some scenic photographs surrounded by nature

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No matter where you take a photo in this verdant garden, even if part of the shot gets cut out it is going to look beautiful!

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Try everything—get closer or take a step back, snap a shot from above or down below. Find the best view for yourself. Make sure you don’t forget your camera when you visit!

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The location of Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden is also part of its attraction. You can easily walk there from the station. Haneda Airport is also easily accessible from there, and there’s Tokyo Tower close by, and even Odaiba. You can also take a pleasure cruise on a ferry from Takeshiba Terminal. Next time you have some time off, please be sure to visit Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden.

 

■information

Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden

Address: 1 Chome Kaigan, Minato-ku, Tokyo

Access: 1-minute walk from JR Hamamatsuchō Station / 3-minute walk from Daimon Station via the Toei Asakusa Line or Toei Ōedo Line

Open: 9:00-17:00

Closed: New Year’s Holiday

Telephone: 03-3434-4029

Official site:https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/english/

 

 

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After taking a walk around the garden and reading a book, today’s stroll has finally come to an end! How did you find it?

Be sure to use this article as reference during your Tokyo sightseeing!

 

Model: Saki Shibata @saki61204

Photo & Writer:Haruka Yamamoto

Translator:Joshua Kitosi-Isanga

Editor:Sayuri Mizuno(ASOBI SYSTEM)

 

Related article:【Tokyo Stroll】The cafe that you want to visit to see someone #1 The popular cafe in Jinbo-cho called “Sabouru” that has retro interior and nostalgic food.

 

Related article:【Tokyo Stroll】Strolling around in Harajuku which has a lot of unique spots such as popular graffiti and artistic miscellaneous stores.

 

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    17.September.2020 | FEATURES / FOOD

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    Writer/Model: Ema Tanioku
    Photographer: Haruka Yamamoto
    Design: Yuko Takayama (ASOBISYSTEM)

    Translator: Joshua Kitosi-Isanga

  • Tokyo Stroll: The Café That You Want to Visit to See Someone #13 – ‘Sepia’ in Shibamata

    22.July.2020 | FEATURES / FOOD / SPOT

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    The cafe is just a 2-minute stroll from Shibamata Station which appears in the Japanese film Otoko wa Tsurai yo. The walk along the road that leads to Sepia, which is nearby the Buddhist temple Shibamata Taishakuten, is a pleasant one. Tokyo is a city consistently perceived as one that is cutting-edge in every aspect, but what I felt from each and every building surrounding Shibamata Station was a kind of warmth that you feel when something has history to it.

     

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    When you hear the word kira kira (“glitter,” “sparkle”), the first thing that comes to mind for a lot of people is probably Harajuku and the Harajuku style, but Sepia’s version of kira kira is a nostalgic one betwixt 1965 and 1975 during the Showa Period. The cafe is incredibly delicate in every spot and corner, like I’m looking inside some grand treasure chest.

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    The cafe menu is even inspired by the food that appears in the Milky Sepia Monogatari manga. The hard pudding I had, which combined caramel sauce and cream, was an absolute delight.

    Homemade Showa Pudding & Cream Soda Set: ¥1,200

    If we’re talking cafes, then you can’t go wrong with cream soda. The cream soda served at Sepia comes in seven different flavours and colours: melon, Blue Hawaii, strawberry, lemon, peach, grape, and orange. I was spoilt for choice on which to go for, but in the end I went with the pink-coloured strawberry. It had a sweet flavour and was really delicious.

    Strawberry Cream Soda: ¥750

    I devoured the hotcakes too. The pastry was so fluffy and tasty – I could have eaten a hundred of them. The second one I ate with honey.

    Hotcakes: ¥600

    At the back of the cafe, they also have the “Candy Candy Museum.” There’s a personal collection of items from Candy H Milky, a female fashion enthusiastic who used to be a customer at Sepia. There’s a photo spot for snapping a photo in the cafe too.

     

    It’s a great time getting to go and look at the displays after eating. I recommend going to see the collection yourself with your own eyes. Entry to the museum is ¥300.

    There’s a tearoom up on the second floor which has a nostalgic vibe to it. I felt warm and relaxed, like I’d been transported to my grandma’s house.

    Humans can’t travel back in time, but if we look after mementos properly, we can go back there in our minds and memories. Sepia, a place that continues to be cherished and loved, is everybody’s treasure trove.

     

    My oh my, I really want to go back there again.

     

    Writer/Model:Ema Tanioku
    Photographer:Haruka Yamamoto
    Design:Yuko Takayama(ASOBISYSTEM)

  • Tokyo Stroll: The Café That You Want to Visit to See Someone #12 – ‘J-COOK’ in Gaiemmae

    08.November.2019 | FEATURES / FOOD / SPOT

    In this edition of The Café That You Want to Visit to See Someone, I visited J-COOK in Gaiemmae, a place I visited one time while off work which ended up in me wanting to absolutely feature it in the series!

    It’s just a 5-minute stroll from Gaiemmae Station.

    The cafe enjoys lots of sunlight, which is brightened further by all the plants scattered through the shop. The cafes I have visited to date are often a little darker with only a little light seeping through the windows to create a certain atmosphere, and they are wonderful, but this was the first I have ever visited with so might light and so many plants. The air felt clear, adding to the level of comfort in the cafe, perhaps because there are so many plants adorning the interior.

    The cafe also has a space with a slightly more darker light and atmosphere on the left side. I haven’t sat in that area yet, so I think I’ll try it out on my next visit.

    When I come to J-COOK, my eyes always wander over to the marzipan creations (¥450).

    These ones here were actually all individually handmade by the owner’s husband from the early morning.

    If you look really closely, you’ll notice all the dog designs are different. When ordering, get to pick out which one you want, so try finding your perfect pup!

    I had mine together with an iced coffee (¥450). The sweet marzipan is a delicious combination with the bitterness of the coffee.

    I also got some potted cream (¥450). It’s kind of like a Japanese custard pudding with just a moderate amount of sweetness.

    I had mine with a bit of brandy which had fragrant vanilla notes. They’ve had this brandy for 33 years since the store first opened.

    The cream was sensational, and the gentle notes linger afterwards.

    They have a lot of different homemade soups too which are perfect for the coming cold weather. I got the New Orleans-style gumbo soup. It’s spicy with clam and okra in it.

    Relaxing jazz music plays in the cafe while you sit and enjoy your drink and meal.

    J-COOK is a wonderful little cafe run by a husband and wife. When I first came, the wife came and talked to me. She’s super friendly, and although it was our first meeting, she made me feel really comfortable and welcome. She must be full of happiness, which in turn naturally gives people who visit the strength to be positive and work hard.

     

    I reckon their smiles have saved a lot of people.

     

    I can’t wait to visit again!

     

    Writer/Model: Ema Tanioku

    Photographer: Haruka Yamamoto

    Design: Yuko Abe (ASOBISYSTEM)

    Translator: Joshua Kitosi-Isanga

  • Young ASOBISYSTEM Models Design Glasses Perfect for Everyday Fashion

    19.September.2019 | FASHION

    Glasses brand Zoff teamed up with famous models Saki Shibata, Yuri Suganuma and Rinko Murata to produce a branded glasses series that is perfect to wear “All Day, Every Day”. The girls designed these glasses to fit into and enhance your everyday life experiences. The Zoff CLASSIC Girls Collection -All Day, Every Day- series will be released across Japan from October 11, 2019. 

    The main theme of this series is All Day, Every Day. From this, the three sub themes of morning, midday and evening were created and each model was put in charge of the designs for one of these themes. Shibata was in charge of ‘morning’ designs, Suganuma was in charge of ‘midday’ designs and Murata was in charge of ‘evening’ designs. Each model carefully thought of how the user would wear the glasses during their sub theme time in order to fully enhance their daily experiences. Each model also created a unique personal design out of metal for the temple tips of the glasses they designed. 

     

    Before being released in stores, the glasses will be available to preorder from Zoff’s official online store from 11am (JST) on September 20. From the same day from 9pm, there will be a one-hour-long live broadcast where the models will showcase their creations.  A limited number of the glasses will be available to preorder during this live broadcast. 

     

    There is also a lottery taking place with the chance to take part in the Zoff CLASSIC Girls Collection Special Event which consists of two parts: A tea session where you can listen to the girls’ stories on how they produced the glasses and even get some pointers on how to coordinate your look, and a special photography session with the three models. 

     

    Designs by Saki Shibata

    ZH191011 Available in 3 colours ¥7,000

    These compact and circular-shaped rims are the perfect way to highlight your classic look or even a tomboy look. However you decide to wear these glasses, you will always look good with minimum effort. 

    ZO192024  Available in 3 colours ¥9,000

    The vintage style and matte coloured metal frame make these glasses perfect for both men and women. The carefully chosen size makes these extra special. 

    Shibata’s statement on the personalised symbol:

    “I want the wearer to feel good the moment they put on these glasses. I designed these glasses to give the wearer confidence to hold their head high and say: ‘Today is going to be a wonderful day and I am going to enjoy every moment of it.'”

     

    Designs by Yuri Suganuma

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    These frames are rectangular with soft round edges to make your face look smaller and your eyes look bigger. 

    ZO191012 Available in 3 colours ¥9,000

    A perfect mix between foxy and geeky, the roundness of these rims is subtle, adding a feminine touch to your look. Although you may get the impression that these glasses only go well with a few styles, they actually coordinate well with a surprisingly large range of styles.

    Suganuma’s statement on the personalised symbol:

    “My design is a heart rate to represent how the wearer will feel when they put these glasses on. I hope my glasses make your heart jump with excitement.” 

     

    Designs by Rinko Murata 

    ZP192019 Available in three colours ¥7,000

    The metal frame is so beautiful that it is like wearing an accessory. The subtle colours of the frame make it perfect for casual clothing. If you are looking for something for everyday use, these are perfect. Big rims are trending right now. 

    ZN191011 Available in three colours ¥9,000

    There is a wonderful contrast between the different materials used and the circular-shaped lenses give a classic look. Switch the lenses for blue light blocking lenses to reduce the amount of blue light exposure from your computer and phone. 

    Murata’s statement on the personal symbol:

    “I etched my initials ‘rm’ into the design. I hope the wearer feels the power to transform into a brand new person whenever they put on these glasses. I hope my glasses provide a sense of comfort and confidence to the wearer.”

     

    Whether you are a fan of the models or this is your first time hearing about them, you just have to check out their stylish designs which are suitable for men and women of all ages.

  • Popular Japanese Model Saki Shibata Releases Items in Collaboration With Pompompurin

    27.August.2019 | FASHION

    Popular Japanese model Saki Shibata―known to her fans by the nickname Shibasaki―has teamed up with Sanrio’s adorable golden retriever Pompompurin to release a collection of collaborative items on the character merchandise online store hopely.

    “Pompompurin x Saki Shibata” Handbag – ¥2,500 (Before Tax)

    “Pompompurin x Saki Shibata” Compact Mirror – ¥1,000 (Before Tax)

    “Pompompurin x Saki Shibata” Pocketable Tote Bag – ¥3,000 (Before Tax)

    Shibasaki is a huge fan of Pompompurin, and her cute collection includes a handbag, compact mirror and tote bag.

    All of these items can be enjoyed by girls and women alike. Which do you have your eyes set on?♡

  • A Date With Yutaro: Soaking Up the Japanese Summer Sun & Visiting the Art Aquarium | Tokyo Stroll

    16.August.2019 | FEATURES / SPOT

    It’s been a while since our last date with Yutaro. He’s been very busy with film shoots. He had some spare time today so we paid a visit to Nihonbashi for our next date. “ECO EDO Nihonbashi: Enjoy Cool Edo With All Five Senses” is an event held every year in the Nihonbashi area which takes the Edo period cultural idea of “coolness”―an in, to enjoy being cool during the summer-and puts a modern spin on it. There are many exciting things to look forward to, including the art aquarium which proves massively popular every year.

     

    We gave ourselves more time to arrive at the meeting place to be in the safe side, but it seems Yutaro-kun was already there waiting for us!

    Nihonbashi Information Center | IPPIN CAFÉ “Sparkling Herb Tea” – ¥518 (Tax Included)

    “Here, you must be boiling.” Yutaro-kun kindly offers a cup of IPPIN CAFE’s limited-edition sparkling herb tea. It’s a delicious mix of fizzy soda and lemon, a perfect refreshment for the summer. Since he ordered takeout the drink came with a goldfish straw. Goldfish are a staple sight during Japanese summer festivals so it’s very fitting for the occasion! 

     

    With our drinks in hand, it’s time to head to Nihonbashi for our Edo summer date!

    Wind-Chime Forest Path

    Lining the path between Fukutoku Shrine and Fukutoku Garden is the Wind-Chime Forest Path where around 200 Edo-style wind chimes dangled. This year, during the evenings, the path is illuminated with beautiful lighting. 

    When the breeze rolls past the wind chimes ring one by one-a cool and refreshing sound.

    “I hear each one of these Edo wind chimes are individually handmade by craftsmen.”

    When you hear the sound of the wind chimes it makes you feel cool like a gentle breeze of the wind.

     

    After strolling along the Wind-Chime Forest Path we make our way towards this year’s ECO EDO Art Aquarium event.

    The moment we step instead Yutaro is already dazzled by all the goldfish: “Wow! I knew about this place from what I’d seen online, but this my first time here! This art aquarium really is something!”

     

    The full title of the event is “ECO EDO Nihonbashi ART AQUARIUM 2019 ~Edo, Coolness of Kingyo~ & Night Aquarium.”  Goldfish were a huge part of the common culture in Nihonbashi during the Edo period. This event recreates that and brings that “coolness” aspect while combining it with contemporary art by having people observe the fish in lots of different artistic environments.

    Super Oiran

    “This is the biggest fish tank, apparently it has 3,000 fish swimming inside!”

    “Seeing the light reflect on the water from the illuminations lets you see the fish in a different light, doesn’t it?”

    Looks like Yutaro-kun is having a lot of fun taking photos.

    He’s equally interested in just about every fish tank!

    These other fish tanks have a different aesthetic to them. Their Japanese-style designs make for great photos.

    Kaleidorium 3D

    “This one’s beautiful, it’s like a kaleidoscope.”

    It really does look like one. When you take a peek instead you can glimpse all kinds of colourful fish gently swimming around.

    Ceiling Kingyo

    “There’re goldfish swimming on the ceiling too. So cool! This aquarium is incredible. It brings together the great culture of Edo and contemporary art.”

     

    The Art Aquarium bustles every single year with visitors, but this year will mark its last run. It’s being held at Nihonbashi Mitsui Hall, so if you have the chance to go then please do.

    We of course checked out some local Nihonbashi treats too! We stopped by morozoff for some cheesecake after the aquarium.

    morozoff Kamadashi Cheesecake (Goldfish) – ¥270 Each (Tax Included)

    These cute cheesecakes with their goldfish designs are available for a limited time only. They’re filled with sweet red bean paste. They perfect with iced tea.

    “Got some! Let’s eat them while we head back.”

    Goldfish Lantern Walkway

    Our first date in Nihonbashi was so much fun. While on the date Yutaro-kun spoke about the new live-action film he’s in, Kaguya-sama: Love Is War.

     

    “It’s a romance film with mind games to try and make the other person confess their love. I play the character Tsubasa. His number one highlight scene is the kabedon scene. That was my first day shooting, so I was super nervous, but I got along well with the other actors, and the atmosphere on set was harmonious, so I was able to relax for the shoots. Tsubasa is a genuine guy who will believe things that have been said to him in earnest. You’ve definitely gotta check out all his scenes throughout the film!”

     

    “A lot of the cast are the same age as me, so we were all energetic together in the waiting room. There’s a scene at the end where all the cast get together. It took 3 days to shoot so we ended up getting along really well.”

     

    “This film has made me realise that love comes in many shapes, and that mind games happen in a variety of ways between guys and girls. There’s cute scenes that express that small bit of pride that teenagers have, the embarassment they feel, when they get butterflies, scenes that will warm your heart. The film has various elements to it so I thoroughly enjoyed watching it myself. I hope that couples in love in their teens and twenties watch it, and I also hope that married couples watch it and crack up laughing too.”

     

    “In the film it’s summer break, and they go and see fireworks and stuff. It’s definitely one to watch durnig the summer. You’re gonna come watch it too, right? Shall we go?”

     

    An offer we cannot refuse! We’ll definitely go and see it with you, Yutaro-kun! 

     

    Model: Yutaro

    Writer: Yuki Yokoo

    Photographer: Kayo Sekiguchi

    TALENT PROFILE

    Yutaro

    Yutaro was born in Hiroshima on June 3rd 1998. His modeling career has earned him lots of attention as a fashion icon of the new generation. The famous model also works as a “charisma” shop assistant. Yutaro has gained his reputation as a “mysterious and handsome guy” from his appearance on Japanese variety shows. His debut was made on the show “Gyoretsu no Dekiru Horitsu Sodanjo” and has since then appeared on numerous different TV shows. He challenged himself to appear on stage for the very first time in March this year and is gaining popularity by the day for his diverse work.

  • Tokyo Stroll: The Café That You Want to Visit to See Someone #11 – ‘Hatoya’ in Asakusa

    16.August.2019 | FEATURES / FOOD

    In this edition of The Café That You Want to Visit to See Someone, I visited Hatoya which is located in Asakusa Shin-Nakamise Arcade.

     

    The streets of Tokyo’s historical district of Asakusa are packed to end with cafés. You can be spoiled for choice, but Hatoya stood out to me in particular as it’s an especially old café. Business there began back in 1927 but the actual building was built back in the Taisho period, meaning its history spans more than 90 years ago!

     

    The outside appearance of the shop is smart and chic so it’s very easy to spot. I couldn’t tell by looking from the outside, but the inside is full of old decorations and odds and ends which make you feel the history of the café.

    One reason why I wanted to visit this place so much is because I was drawn to their logo. It’s really retro-kawaii so I just couldn’t resist!

    You should take some photos too if you visit.

    It was time to head inside. It’s really comfy and cozy in there; the atmosphere was nice and relaxed.

    Framed on the wall is a map of the Asakusa area during the Taisho era. Hatoya became famous back then because people could buy coffee for a mere 5 sen (a single sen is one-hundredth of a yen).

     

    When business first began at Hatoya, because the café was opposite the stage door of a theatre, all of the famous actors and actresses would pop in. Some include famous Japanese comedian Roppa Furukawa and film actor Kiyoshi Atsumi who played Tora-san in the film series Otoko wa Tsurai yo.

    I ordered the café’s popular hotcakes which cost ¥600. They have been making these same hotcakes since before the war.

    They were nice and fluffy and had a deliciously gorgeous brown colour. The flavour was out of this world when the butter melted from the heat of the hotcakes and mixed together with the syrup.

     

    The portion might look like a lot but they are fluffy and have a light flavour so can be finished with no problem.

    And is the café’s signature milkshake (¥500).

     

    It’s so refreshing that you can knock it back all in one go. It has a simple flavour but it tasted so good!

    I also ordered the ¥600 cream soda, my favourite beverage.

    I’ve been to many cafés, and have covered many in this series, but this is the first I have dined at with such a deep history. I found myself enthralled by the stories of the owner who has continued to treasure the café and maintained it all the same since it opened. I feel like I have learned about a world I never knew about. The next time I go to Hatoya with a friend I’ll be sure to let them in on its history. I encourage you to visit too!

     

    Writer/Model: Ema Tanioku
    Photographer: Haruka Yamamoto
    Design: Yuko Abe (ASOBISYSTEM)

    TALENT PROFILE

    Ema Tanioku

    “Emaeri” is the nickname for models Ema and Eri Tanioku, who are Aomoji fashion model twins. Ema and Eri Tanioku specialise in twin fashion coordination. Over the years their fanbase has increased due to their cute looks. Ema Tanioku spreads Harajuku culture within Japan as well as overseas and works as a Harajuku Tourism Ambassador. Starting off as a model, Ema has broadened her talent range from fashion magazines to TV, and from playing the lead role in dramas to movies.

  • Tokyo DisneySea’s New ‘Song of Mirage’ Show is a Must-See

    23.July.2019 | FEATURES / SPOT

    Tokyo DisneySea fans have been waiting in excited anticipation for the opening of the park’s new attraction Soaring: Fantastic Flight on July 23. But did you know that an all-new show also started on the same day?

     

    I visited Tokyo DisneySea together with models Saki Shibata and Kanako to see this new show. It’s called Song of Mirage and features Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy as the cast.

    The show takes place at the Hanger Stage in Lost River Delta. Mickey and the rest of the cast are led to the mysterious city of  Rio Dorado by a cane that Donald found.

    From the very start of the show the characters are sucked into this magical place by the mysterious cane. During this time Donald ends up getting himself in trouble. Mickey also takes part in a dance battle where he shows off his cool moves which leaves Minnie positively in awe. Each character has their own performance which guests can look forward to seeing.

    The most overwhelming part of the show however is the voice of the diva who appears during the set. She sings beautifully yet powerfully and it gave me goosebumps.

    The singing and dancing throughout, as well as the realistic projection mapping were all spectacular. We were completely drawn into the story and the vibrant and dynamic performances that tied it together.

    The performers singing and dancing in their golden costumes too were a sight to behold.

    Saki’s reactions were really charming as her face changed every single second while she laughed, clapped and really got into the show. Kanako, who loves Disney, was extremely pleased to see her favourite characters on stage too.

     

    There is both reserved and free seating at the show. Reserved seating must be booked in advance but is allocated through a lottery system where people are chosen randomly. The schedule for bookings can be found on the official website.

    The Disney cast wear adventurer costumes during the performance, and you can buy plush toys of them wearing them too!

     

    If you’re visiting Tokyo DisneySea then be sure to catch the show during your breaks between attractions and parades.

     

    ©Disney

  • Tokyo DisneySea will open their new attraction Soaring: Fantastic Flight on July 23. This ride is an immensely popular attraction at theme parks around the world. DisneySea has created a new adaptation of this ride, offering a brand new and original experience to visitors.

     

    Model Saki Shibata from MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON Editorial Department headed to DisneySea with model Kanako for an exclusive opportunity to experience this attraction before it opens to the rest of the public!

    Climb up the stairs next to the Mediterranean Harbor and the attraction will lie right before your eyes. 

    Before you enter the building, you will notice that there are lots of photo spots outside. 

    You will also spot Camellia Falco; a keen flyer who became the first woman to be accepted in the Society of Explorers and Adventurers in 1851.

    The Museum of Fantastic Flight located in the Mediterranean Harbor is celebrating Camellia Falco’s innovation in the field of aviation by holding a special commemorative exhibition dedicated to her and her research. 

    The final room of the museum is a gallery filled with Camellia’s outstanding achievements.

     

    Finally, it was time to climb aboard the invention of Camellia and her colleagues; an aircraft called the Dream Flyer.

    The Dream Flyer was a magnificent trip. We soared through the sky, through the nature and around famous places of the world.

    We were propelled from one place to another, experiencing a range of new atmospheres and surroundings in so many ways. At each location, we felt the wind and temperature of each country on our skin and could even smell a mix of intriguing smells unique to each location. 

     

    The final destination we arrived at was our most favourite… 

     

    This DisneySea original attraction is overflowing with imagination. It was like flying through an imaginary world. You absolutely must check it out. 

    Fantastic Flight Churros (Pineapple): ¥400

    Fantastic Flight Drink (Lychee Bubble Tea): ¥450

    To celebrate the opening of the new attraction, new Fantastic Flight-themed merchandise and foods have been released. Zambini Brothers’ Ristorante is even selling pineapple flavoured churros and bubble tea. Just looking at the blue sky colour of these delicious treats will leave you feeling refreshed.

    Postcard: ¥200 

    Origami Notebook: ¥400

    Socks (22 ー 25cm/ 25 ー 27cm): ¥700

    Please check out the full goods range!

    It has been quite a while since DisneySea has opened a new attraction, so the park is booming with excitement in anticipation for its grand opening to the public! Climb aboard the Soaring: Fantastic Flight ride and embark on a worldwide adventure! 

     

    ©Disney

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