Get your hands on all the squishies you need in the squishy holy land Harajuku
01.September.2017 | SPOT
Hi, I’m Shiota, the director of the MOSHI MOSHI BOX Harajuku Tourist Information Center.
One of the biggest questions that has been raised since spring this year by people who stop by the MOSHI MOSHI BOX is about “squishy” toys. This boom has lit a fire over on YouTube and is hugely popular among young teenage girls.
Squishies comes in all shapes and sizes, but the big hits both in Japan and overseas are the food squishies. Known as “squeeze” in Japan, they got their name from fans for how nice they feel and satisfying they are to squeeze.
In this article, we’re going to take a look at some of the shops in the squishy holy land that is Harajuku where you can get you hands on some!
“Nihon Squeeze Center” – A super famous shop that everybody knows about
To reach this place you need to pass through Takeshita Street located opposite the Takeshita Exit of Harajuku Station accessible via the JR Yamanote Line. Make a left at Murasaki Sports along Meiji Dori and you will see a shoe shop by the name of Kickers on your left. the Nihon Squeeze Center is located on the second floor of the building.
The shop was originally called “Harajuku Accessory Market” and was a popular shop on Takeshita Street that sold miscellaneous items. However, it relocated and rebranded as a shop specialising in squishies.
One of the store’s most popular products are the squishies made in collaboration with Tokyo Bakery. You can’t buy these at any other shop.
Newer squishies have a smell to them, but the squishes at this shop don’t have that factory smell – they have the scent of the real thing! The quality is too good, I just can’t contain myself.
You have to book online to enter the shop on Saturdays, Mondays, national holidays, spring, summer and winter holidays, and any other days where the shop is expected to be overcrowded. Be sure to check the store’s homepage before heading to see if you need to book or not.
▼Information
Nihon Squeeze Center
Address: Harajuku MY Bldg. 2F, 3-24-2 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Access: 10-minutes’ walk from Harajuku Station via the JR line / 5-minutes’ walk from Meiji Jingumae Station via the Tokyo Metro Line
Hours: 10:30-17:30
Closed: Irregular holidays *closures will be announced via the store’s official homepage and Twitter
Homepage: https://r.goope.jp/sukusen
“MOOOSH” – Enjoy squeezing all the squishies to your heart’s content in a spacious store
As you come out of the 4th exit of Meiji Jingumae Station via the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line you will see a ramen shop by the name of “Ichiran” (一蘭) on your left. MOOOSH is on the third floor of the same building. The entrance looks like the entrance to an office building.
MOOOSH is a place where you can buy every squishy sold by the famous squishy brand “BLOOM.” It’s a very spacious shop and even has an all-you-can-squeeze squishy area.
Their range of customers has been on the increase recently, with people coming from Japan and even overseas to visit. There’s also an online shop for people who aren’t able to stop by, so be sure to check that out too.
▼Information
MOOOSH
Address: 6-5-6-304 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Access: 5-minutes’ walk from Harajuku Station via the JR Line / 1-minute walk from Meiji Jingumae Station via the Tokyo Metro Line
Hours: 10:00-17:00
Telephone: 090-4705-8080
Closed: Irregular holidays
Online Shop: https://mooosh-squishy.stores.jp/
“Picnic” – Get distracted by a range of affordable squshies
To find this shop, take the Takeshita Street Exit of Harajuku Station coming from the JR Line and enter Takeshita Street. Take the first left and you will find an arcade. Here you will find “Picnic.”
Picnic is a talk-of-the-town store that has even featured on TV. They stock a wide range of affordable squishes – something we can all be happy about.
▼Information
Harajuku Picnic
Address: Harajuku Le Ponte 1F, 1-17-114-2 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Access: 1-minute walk from Harajuku Station via the JR Line
Hours: 10:15-21:45
Telephone: 03-3746-1269
Closed: Irregular Holidays
“FANCY POCKET Harajuku” – Right near Harajuku Station
Head straight down Takeshita Street from the Takeshita Street Exit of Harajuku Station via the JR Line. Make a left turn at the corner of the cream puff store “Beard Papa’s” and take the white staircase in view on your right. The first floor is a clothes shop called “CONOMI.”
The store is affiliated with “Sun Houseki,” a shop selling bargain-priced miscellaneous goods. It’s highlight are the super cute squishy designs you can get your hands on – and best of all it’s easy on your wallet.
▼Information
FANCY POCKET Harajuku
Address: Minowa Bldg. 2F, 1-19-2 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Access: 5-minutes’ walk from Harajuku Station via the JR Line
Hours: 10:00-19:00
Telephone: 03-5414-1288
Closed: Irregular Holidays
HP:http://www.sunhoseki.co.jp/shop/shop_detail.aspx?shopid=1
So, what do you think of this squishy store collection? There’s a lot of shops to choose from all very close to each other, meaning you can run from shop to shop to find your favourite♪
And if you get lost at any point during your Harajuku trek, then stop by the MOSHI MOSHI BOX where we’re happy to guide you on your way!
■MOSHI MOSHI BOX Harajuku Tourist Information Center
We are a tourist information center located at the crossing of Takeshita Street, Meiji Dori and Harajuku Dori. Our staff know all there is to know about Harajuku and can give you all the information you need from the latest and most recent news to more detailed information.
Services Offered:
・Free wi-fi ・Free water
・Free PC charging ・Luggage storage
・Souvenirs ・Money exchange
Hours: 10:00-18:00
Closed: New Year’s Holiday
Telephone: 03-2225-6447
Twitter・Instagram: @mmb_harajuku
Writer: Nao Shiota (MOSHI MOSHI BOX)
RECOMMENDED ENTRIES
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LINE is a communication app popular in Japan and other countries, similar to WhatsApp.
The flagship LINE FRIENDS character merchandise stores has just re-opened in Harajuku Zero Gate.
There are currently 100 LINE FRIENDS stores open worldwide, stocking merchandise from popular LINE stamp characters such as Brown, Choco and Cony.
There’s a huge selection of items available in-store from stationery to plush toys, tableware made in collaboration with world famous brands, snacks and candy only available at the stores, and much more.
Upon arriving at LINE FRIENDS, you’ll also be greeted by a giant plush of Brown the bear.
Head to LINE FRIENDS and get your hands on some super cute merch!
■Information
LINE FRIENDS Flagship Store in Harajuku
Address: 4-31-12 Shibuya, Tokyo
Opening Hours: 11:00-21:00
No Fixed Holidays.
TEL: 03-4360-9069
Website: https://www.linefriends.com/?lang=en
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Hi, everyone. I’m Midori Blackmore and I work at the MOSHI MOSHI BOX in Harajuku.
A shop opened up recently in Harajuku that sells slime from South Korea, something which is steadily becoming a fad right now. So I went to take a look!
The name of the shop is SLIME NYANDA by Japan Slime Land.
You will find it on the third floor of the building next to Princess One Spoon. It’s between Roll Ice Cream Factory and Nihon Squeeze Center.
Look for the sign on the ground floor. Once you head up to the shop you’ll be greeted by the cute pink interior!
This is how it looks inside. Lots of different slimes line the shelves.
They’re colourful and cute and cost around ¥600.
They were even selling kits to make Nata de Coco slime, a jelly cube type of slime.
I bought the light blue Nade de Coco slime.
It’s really soft and elastic to touch, I can’t get enough!
I wonder if slime will be bigger a bigger boom than squishies?
Be sure to check the shop’s opening times and more on their official Twitter account.
■Information
SLIME NYANDA by Japan Slime Land
Address: 4-27-3 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
Access: 1-minute on foot from Takeshita Street
Official Twitter: https://twitter.com/japanslimeland
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Over at the MOSHI MOSHI BOX, Harajuku’s tourist information center, we are always asked about ice cream and soft cream shops. These cute and Instagrammable shops are currently experiencing a huge boom with the younger generation!
Here are 7 popular ice cream and soft cream shops that you can visit during your trip to Harajuku.
Eddy’s Ice Cream
Located in Ura-Harajuku, Eddy’s Ice Cream completely is pasted in pink and white. Wherever you turn to look, you’re going to want to take a photo. The grand menu of Eddy’s Ice Cream, where the toppings are already chosen, is super popular, but you can also customise to your liking – there are 10 cones and 3 soft creams to choose from as well as 13 different toppings. The most popular item on the menu is the “Unicorn” (¥1,200), a magical delight wrapped in pastel coloured cotton candy and milk soft cream. This one promises a new kind of sensation for the taste buds!
Full Details: http://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/55526/2
■Information
Eddy’s Ice Cream
Address: Eddy’s Ice Cream 1F, 4 Chome-26-28 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo (住所:東京都渋谷区 神宮前4-26-28 1F)
Opening Hours: 11:00-20:00
Closed: No fixed holidays
TEL: 03-6438-9742
Access: 10 minutes’ walk from Harajuku Station via the JR Line / 8 minutes’ walk from Meiji Jingumae Station via Tokyo Metro
Official Homepage: http://eddysicecream.jp/Roll Ice Cream Factory
This unique rolled ice cream is mixed together with liquid ice cream and other ingredients on a cool plate. You can order from the regular menu or customise your own. The shop’s recommendation is the “Cookie Monster”! Not only can you take great pictures of the finished ice cream piece itself, but also the process as it is made in front of you.
Full Details: http://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/57051
■Information
ROLL ICE CREAM FACTORY
Address: Just harajuku 1st floor, 4-28-12 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Phone Number: 03-3470-0227
Closing Dates: No scheduled holidays
Open time: 10:00-21:00
Official Homepage: http://rollicecreamfactory.com/Nanaya (Aoyama Branch)
Nanaya sells luxurious gelato made using matcha sourced from Fujieda in Shizuoka. It offers seven varying levels of matcha intensity – level 1 begins with a more moderately sweeter flavour, but as you progress up the scale to level 7 the flavour of the matcha becomes richer and deeper. The no. 7 gelato is the most popular item and claims to be the most matcha intense flavoured ice cream in the world. It uses matcha that received an award from the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. It boasts a deeply rich and bitter matcha flavour inside which lies a hint of refreshing sweetness.
Full Details: http://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/58538
■Information
Nanaya Aoyama
Address: Nanaya 1F, 2-7-12 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Tel: 03-6427-9008
Hours: 11:00〜19:00
Closed: Tuesdays (but open on Tuesdays when it’s a national holiday)
Website: http://nanaya-matcha.comMatcha Café Maiko
The same matcha – just imported from Hawaii! “MATCHA Stand MAIKO” has been in business in Hawaii since July 2016, and it has made its way to Omotesando in Japan. Matcha Café Maiko uses the highest quality matcha produced in “Harimaen,” a tea brand from Uji in Kyoto, aka the birthplace of Japanese tea. The matcha-flavored soft served ice cream of Matcha Café Maiko extracts the umami and texture of matcha to the fullest, meaning you can enjoy a matcha soft ice cream unlike any other!
Full Details: http://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/47577
■Information
“Matcha Café Maiko – Omotesando”
Address: B1 of GYRE, 5-10-1, Jingumae, Shibuyaku, Tokyo
Open: 11:00-20:00
Website: http://www.matchacafe-maiko.jp/“MATCHA Stand MAIKO”
Address: 2310 Kuhio Ave. #143 Honolulu, HI 96815
TEL: (808) 369-8031
Open: 11:30-21:00 ※Time in Hawaii
Website: http://www.matchacafe-maiko.com/“Milk” – Fresh Cream Specialty Shop
When “Milk” opened in Shibuya it was a roaring success, bringing in 30,000 people in the first month. Fresh cream usually plays the supporting role of sitting on top of something like pancake, but “Milk” promotes it to the lead role by drawing out its flavour to the fullest. “Milk” serves a range of sweets with the fresh cream as the main acts, including “Milky Cream Chiffon Cake” (¥780), “Milky Soft Cream” (¥540), “Milky Soft Parfait” (¥780), and more. The shop is only open for a limited period, so don’t miss out.
Full Details: http://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/54370
■Information
“Milk” – Fresh Cream Specialty Shop (生クリーム専門店 ミルク)
Popup Shop in Harajuku Justin
Opening date: August 3rd ※Takeout available from August 10th
Address: Harajuku JUSTIN Gingumae 3-25-18 Shibuya-ku Tokyo
Open: 11:00-18:00(※JUSTIN’s normal business hour starts from 18:00)Takeout specialty shop in LUMINE EST Shinjuku
Opening date: August 20th, 2017
Address: LUMINE EST 1F Shinjuku 3-38-1 Shinjuku-ku Tokyo
Open: 11:00-22:00 (10:30-21:30 on weekends and holidays)Official Website: http://www.opefac.com/milk/
sorama
Affogato (¥550), a definite recommendation to those people who find normal ice cream a tad bit boring. It’s made with rich wholesome ice cream that melts its way into strong coffee. Even people who aren’t adjusted to coffee can enjoy this one. What’s more is that “sorama” is a café situated away from the hustle and bustle of the busy streets of Harajuku where time flows calmer, allowing you to take a breather. It’s a place where you can enjoy more “grown-up” ice cream.
Full Details: http://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/32960
■Information
sorama gallery+coffee
1-12-6 Dohi Bldg., Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
TEL: 03-3423-2370
OPEN: 9:30~11:00/12:00~19:00 (Closed: Mondays, Tuesdays, National Holidays)
Homepage: http://sorama.tokyo/coffee/
coisof(コイソフ)
Ice cream and dairy specialists “Morinaga Milk Industry” teamed up with “GOMAYA KUKI,” a store specialising in sesame ice cream, to open the soft serve ice cream shop “coisof.” Their sesame ice creams strive to stand superior to ice creams all over the world and are topped with colourful “oiri,” a traditional candy from Kagawa prefecture that brings good luck. Once you have one you won’t be able to stop!
Full Details: http://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/54778
■Information
Coisof (コイソフ)
Address:OZ Harajuku Building 1st floor, 1-8-24, Jingu-mae, Shibuya, Tokyo
Open: 10:00-20;00
Telephone number: 070-1185-1309
【Select Menu Items】
・Coi soft (white) ¥600 (tax included)
・Coi soft (mix) ¥600 (tax included)
・Coi soft (black) ¥600 (tax included)
GOMAYA KUKI Website: http://gomayakuki.jp/
Harajuku – the home of the “kawaii” culture. Know you know some of its most photogenic ice cream shops. So what are you waiting for? Have your fill♡
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Writer: Ellie
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A “zoo” beside a Harajuku Denki Shokai ?! An ice cream store, “Dobutsuen” which use the motifs of animals was opened
“Dobutsuen” which sells cute animal-shaped ice cream under the theme of “the smallest zoo of the world” was opened on the 23rd of September.
Each item is 500 yen! Below are the items which are suitable to be uploaded on your SNS.
Buta (strawberry) Buhtaro (5oo yen / tax included)
Panda (cookie and cream) Runrun (5oo yen / tax included)
Zou (soda) Umeko (5oo yen / tax included)
Koara (Vanilla) Ocean Hiroko (5oo yen / tax included)
Tora (blueberry cheese cake) Eijikun (5oo yen / tax included)
3 Biki no Kobuta (random flavor) (1,000 yen / tax included)
Why not try these cute animal-shaped ice creams after drinking Denkyu Soda.
■Information
Dobutsuen
Address: 150-0001, B1F 3-20-10, Jingumae, Shibuyaku, Tokyo
TEL: 03-6434-5074
Business hours: 11:00 to 19:00
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【Tokyo Cafe】Nanaya in Aoyama has the World’s Most Intense Matcha Flavoured Ice Cream
In today’s installment of Tokyo Café, we head to Nanaya in Aoyama, a popular café that sells sweet and refreshing matcha gelato, perfect for the summertime.
Marushichi Seicha is a tea producer that estalished in 1988 in Shizuoka, Japan’s number one tea-growing district. They were the first in Japan to sell freeze dried matcha, which has since come to prove very popular and enjoyed throughout homes in Japan due to its ease of preparation. Marushichi Seicha set out to open “Nanaya” to take advantage of the flavour of matcha, something loved by people of all ages in Japan.
The shop’s special menu features a list of gelato, or ice cream, using this same delactable matcha. It offers seven varying levels of matcha intensity – level 1 begins with a more moderately sweeter flavour, but as you progress up the scale to level 7 the flavour of the matcha becomes richer and deeper. The menu also includes a range gelato using other teas too, such as houjicha (roasted green tea) and genmaicha (brown rice green tea).
The most popular item on the menu is the no. 7 level matcha gelato (¥560, tax incl.), which claims to be the most matcha-intense ice cream in the world. It uses matcha that received an award from the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. There’s a reason it has become so renowned, with its deeply rich and bitter matcha flavour inside which lies the right hint of refreshing sweetness.
As well as matcha flavours, Nanaya serves up other gelato too, such as the Genmaicha Gelato (pictured above on left / ¥370), a fragrant brown rice green tea that is popular among guys that visit the shop. You can customize your ice cream cups too and get double scoops (pictured above on right / ¥470) and even triple scoops (¥500), meaning you can order a variety of different flavours to try at once.
If you you’re thinking of ordering another gelato flavour to go with matcha, then you should try getting it with houjicha, which has a subtle fragrance of tea in its sweetness!
>>next page
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Popular Character Cafés in Japan: August 2018
Each month, a new themed café or menu is introduced in Japan in collaboration with popular characters. There’s a whole list of kawaii ones that make an appearance every time.
Let’s take a look at some character cafés you can look forward to in August 2018.
‘Over Action Rabbit’ x VANDALISM Shibuya
Over Action Rabbit is a popular stamp series used on the LINE and Kakao Talk messenger apps that has gained much attention in Japan and particularly with young people in South Korea. The cute and lovable rabbit is getting his own themed café that will be open for a limited period between July 21 and August 26. This is the first time a café has collaborated with Over Action Rabbit in Japan. The kawaii café will take the form of his surreal world and be decorate in pastel-coloured decor. They also have a takeout menu.
Full Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/118092
■Information
LINE Stamp “Over Action Rabbit” Character Café
Running: July 21, 2018 – August 26, 2018
Location: VANDALISM Shibuya
Address: B1F Ota, 26-9 Udagawacho, Shibuya, Tokyo
Opening Hours: 11:00am-9:00pm
Official Homepage: http://dk311.jp/Extremely-Rabbit/cafe/
The Very Hungry Caterpillar x Marione Gate Ginza
The internationally beloved children’s picture book The Very Hungry Caterpillar has its own café in Japan, and they’ve introduced some eye-catching new menu items for the summer. Everything delicious thing on the menu recreates the wonderful world of the story down to the finest of details that are sure to leave you smiling!
Full Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/107654
■Information
The Very Hungry Caterpillar CaféAddress: Sunday Brunch, Marione Gate Ginza 1 (4F), 2-2-14 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Running: January 18, 2018 – August 31, 2018
Opening Hours: 11:00am-9:00pm
*Reservations must be made for those who want to visit the cafe before 5:30pm. Making reservation is unnecessary for those who are planning to visit the café after 5:30pm.
TEL: 03-3567-3366
Website: http://www.harapecocafe.com
Gudetama x Dining Park Ikebukuro
To celebrate Gudetama’s 5th anniversary, he’s launched into space to bring us a very special space-themed menu packed with dishes perfect for Instagram feeds, such as the Zero Gravity Gudetama Burger, Black Hole Jar Parfait, and much more. Drink and dine at the café to receive a limited edition Gudetama fan and coaster. Keep in mind these are limited in quantity, so you’ll want to visit quick!
Full Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/112954
■Information
Gudetama Café – Ikebukuro
Address: Gourmet Stadium II, Seibu Ikebukuro Main Store 8F, 1-28-1 Minami Ikebukuro, Toshima, Tokyo
Running: June 26, 2018 – September 4, 2018
Opening Hours: 11am-11pm (Open from 10:30am on weekends & holidays)
*Last Food Orders: 9:30pm / Last Drink Orders 10pm
No fixed holidays except where Seibu Ikebukuro is closed.
TEL: 03-5949-5675
©2013, 2018 SANRIO CO., LTD. APPROVAL NO.S590710
Chiitan☆ x Harajuku Kawaii-ya
Located down Takeshita Street, Harajuku’s iconic shopping spot, is Harajuku Kawaii-ya, a café that has teamed up with the kawaii otter mascot Chiitan☆. Running until September 9, the menu is filled with dishes with very unique names in Japanese which translate to things like “I’m Chiitan, the One Who Destroyed the Trampoline Someone Bought For Me… Hot Pie.” You don’t need to make any reservations. It’s first-come, first-served all day making it an easy place to get into if you’re unsure how to book in Japanese. Experience the world of Chiitan☆ in Harajuku!
■Information
Chiitan☆ x Harajuku Kawaii-ya (Produced by Animate Cafe)Running: August 8, 2018 – September 9, 2018
Location: Harajuku Kawaii-ya (CUTE CUBE HARAJUKU 3F, 1-7-1 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo)
Official Page: http://kawaiiya.jp/collabo-chitan.html
Cinnamoroll x Sapporo PARCO
Sanrio’s popular character Cinnamoroll recently won the 33rd Sanrio 2018 Character Awards so to celebrate, he received his very own themed café which is open at Sapporo PARCO until September 10. Enjoy the Soratobu Cinnamoroll Curry featuring Cinnamoroll flying through a green curry sky with his big ears. The dish is topped with cotton candy clouds which, when mixed with the curry, creates a unique flavour of sweet and spicy. There’s a whole list of cute dishes on the menu. Cinnamoroll and his pals will also be there to greet you as staff.
Full Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/116613
■Information
Cinnamoroll CaféSapporo PARCO 4F・THE GUEST cafe&diner
Address: Sapporo PARCO 4F – THE GUEST Cafe&Diner, 1-3-3 Minami, Chuo-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido
Running: July 27, 2018 – September 10, 2018
Opening Hours: 10:00am-8:00pm (Food Last Orders 7:00pm / Drinks Last Orders 7:30pm)
Official Website: http://the-guest.com
Cardcaptor Sakura x Sakura Fantasy Cafe
The Sakura Fantasy Caf is a new collaborative café themed on the latest entry to the Cardcaptor series, Cardcaptor Sakura: Clear Card, now open for a limited time in Tokyo (Harajuku), Osaka (Abeno) and Saitama (Koshigaya). The cafés have a photogenic themed menu as well as a photo spot and more, all with original illustrations. There’s even a line-up of original Cardcaptor merchandise you can’t get anywhere else. The menu includes a selection of cheese toast, roast beef, smoothies, pancakes and more.
Full Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/116035
■Information
Sakura Fantasy CafeTokyo: Harajuku Box Cafe&Space
Osaka: DELASOUL CHARBON
Saitama: Koshigaya Box Cafe&Space
Dates
Tokyo: July 12, 2018 – September 2, 2018
Osaka: July 27, 2018 – August 28, 2018
Saitama: September 6, 2018 – September 30, 2018
Opening Hours
Tokyo: 11:00am-9:40pm
Osaka: 11:00am-9:20pm
Saitama: 11:00am-8:00pm (Last Orders 7:00pm)
Entry
Online reservations must be made (¥600 + tax) to access the Tokyo and Osaka cafes. 80 minutes allowed.
Reservations not taken for Saitama cafe.
Reservation Bonuses
Free luncheon mat randomly selected from 3 designs.
Menu Order Bonus
Those who order from the themed menu will receive an original coaster randomly selected from 9 designs.
Official Website: https://sakura-fantsy-cafe.jp
Did you enjoy this list? Be sure you get a chance to visit a character café while you’re in Japan.
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Official Chiikawa Shops in Harajuku and Osaka to Hold 1st Anniversary Fair
Last year, Chiikawa Land, the first official Chiikawa shop, opened at the Harajuku and Osaka Umeda branches of KIDDYLAND. Both locations will celebrate the 1st anniversary of the shop’s opening with a special fair on August 5, 2022.
Chiikawa is a popular character first revealed by Japanese illustrator Nagano on Twitter. In December 2020, the official online store Chiikawa Market opened, and Nagano released a book compiling the manga panels they drew and posted on Twitter. The characters have become massively popular, with the artist’s social media accounts racking up over 1.1 million followers. From collaboration cafes and exhibitions to a recent anime series, the sky’s the limit for these adorable characters!
Purchase Bonus
「Holographic Sticker (Not for Sale) *Designs will differ between the Harajuku and Osaka Umeda locations.
Holographic Pin (Not for Sale) / For guests spending ¥3,300 or more (including tax)
Picnic Blanket (Not for Sale) / For guests spending ¥5,500 or more (including tax)
Mug (Not for Sale) / For guests spending ¥8,800 or more (including tax)
Limited Edition Chiikawa Land Harajuku x Marion Crepes Collab
Limited Edition Chiikawa Land Harajuku x Marion Crepes Goods
Chiikawa Land Osaka Umeda Limited Edition Goods
Both the Harajuku and Osaka Chiikawa Land locations are visited by fans each day, and each store has developed unique products to celebrate the first anniversary.The Chiikawa Land Harajuku location will offer products in collaboration with Marion Crepes, while the Osaka Umeda location will sell limited edition products featuring the characters in cute traditional costumes. Special bonuses will also be handed out to guests spending particular amounts, so why not come out and grab some new goods?
©nagano / chiikawa committee
Information
Chiikawa Land Harajuku / Osaka Umeda – 1st Anniversary Celebration
Date: August 5, 2022
KIDDYLAND Harajuku:
https://chiikawa-info.jp/chiikawaland/harajuku/KIDDYLAND Osaka Umeda:
https://chiikawa-info.jp/chiikawaland/osaka/ -
Manga Series ‘Eren the Southpaw’ Hijacks Reebok Harajuku and Shibuya Stores
25.July.2022 | ANIME&GAME / FASHION / SPOT
Reebok has appointed a number of popular artists in Japan and abroad to take part in their new campaign titled ‘Life is Not a Spectator Sport -Move, Move!-’ This collaboration started in March 2022.
As a part of this collaboration, Reebok is teaming up with the manga series Eren the Southpaw. Kappa’s popular ensemble drama highlights a number of creators, and has a very poignant tagline: “To all those who couldn’t become geniuses.” Reebok’s brand message matches this and is meant to be a manifesto for life, telling people to never give up, act on their own convictions, and find their own path.
Reebok Classic Store – Harajuku Interior
Stickers / Pins
Original Scene from Eren the Southpaw
To commemorate the release of Reebok’s flagship model INSTAPUMP FURY 95 in Sax Blue, a huge piece of window art was redrawn by Kappi. The artist also provided an original manga featuring an entirely new story. Fans can find this at the Reebok Classic Store Harajuku and on the official Reebok Twitter page. The Reebok stores in Harajuku and Shibuya have also been completely taken over by Eren the Southpaw, completely decorated from top to bottom in images from the series.
Information
[GY7178] SLATE/CBLACK/TINGRE
Release Date: July 22
https://reebok.jp/products/GY1589/
Original Manga Available:
Reebok Official Twitter: https://twitter.com/Reebokjp
Reebok Classic Store Harajuku
Reebok Store Shibuya
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KAWAII LAB. Report #1: IDOLATER Welcomes Two New Members
KAWAII LAB. is a project spearheaded by ASOBISYSTEM with the aim of introducing the world to popular Japanese idol culture. The idol group IDOLATER was born from this idea, and in April, the girls welcomed two new members, transforming it into a fresh new 5-member group. Announced at the group’s solo concert ‘New IDOLATER’ on April 24, Fuuka Oishi and Ririka Satsuki joined the lineup consisting of Ayu Okuda, Kurumi Tsukishiro, and Yukino Fushiki.
A typical idol group is peppy and filled with energy, but IDOLATER is doing things a little differently. What is their appeal? How do they want to shake things up?
A Group Formed by Finalists from ASOBISYSTEM’s First National Audition
IDOLATER debuted in April 2019. In the spring of 2018, ASOBISYSTEM, the management company behind Kyary Pamyu Pamyu and a number of other popular talents, announced its first large-scale nationwide audition, ASOBISYSTEM THE AUDITION 2018. IDOLATER’s history began with five audition finalists–Fushiki, Okuda, Tsukishiro, and two others. The catchphrase for the audition was fitting for the group: “Seeking the next generation of talents to shape Japanese pop culture and share it with the world.”
IDOLATER Welcomes Solo Singer Ririka Satsuki & Model Fuuka Oishi
Following the departure of two members and intense restrictions imposed on the group’s activities due to the pandemic, IDOLATER continued to operate with only three members. Although they didn’t manage to get a ton of media coverage or appeal in large-scale events, the group continued to pull in new fans and gain recognition in the idol community. After a while, Fuuka Oishi and Ririka Satsuki joined the group, giving a much-needed boost to IDOLATER’s activities and energy.
Ririka Satsuki is a solo artist based in Fukuoka with an incredible husky voice. Fuuka Oishi has previously worked as a model and is popular with creators for her sweet yet listless atmosphere. Despite their incredible confidence, this is the first time either has worked as an idol!
IDOLATER and the Concept of ‘Idols’
The word ‘idol’ can conjure plenty of images to mind, but what does the word mean to the members of IDOLATER?
The group’s music blends together elements of city pop, future funk, and house, while still keeping true to traditional J-pop roots. The familiarity of their music makes it easy to approach, and Yukino Fushiki’s powerful voice alongside Ririka Satsuki’s melodies shower fans with some of the best vocals in the idol world.
The group’s choreography is provided by YU-KA, formerly of TEMPURA KIDZ. Her experience as both a dancer and an idol makes her an asset, and her refreshing moves are a highlight of each IDOLATER show.
A former pattern maker for a Japanese fashion brand designed the group’s costumes.
If this sounds like the idol group for you, come and check out an IDOLATER event to see the girl’s incredible appeal for yourself.
On June 19, IDOLATER will hold their second regular performance, ‘Camel,’ at Ebisu CreATO. (The title of the show was chosen because it sounded fun, not for any other specific reason.)
Stay tuned for the next report, where we’ll delve a little deeper into the life of each member of IDOLATER!
Information
KAWAII LAB.
Twitter: @kawaii__lab
YouTube: KAWAII LAB.
IDOLATER
Official Site: https://note.com/idolater
Twitter: @Official_IDLT
Instagram: @idolater_official
YouTube: IDOLATER
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From Harajuku to the world! Chasing the bright future of a rising star, FRUITS ZIPPER
FRUITS ZIPPER is a group quickly rising to stardom, debuted from “KAWAII LAB.” KAWAII LAB is a new project to introduce Japanese idol culture from “Harajuku”, a fashion town where various cultures and personalities gather, to the world. Members of the group include Amane Tsukihashi, Suzuka Chinzei, Yui Sakurai, Runa Nakagawa, Manaka Mana, Karen Matsumoto, and Noel Hayase.
Even before their debut, the group garnered attention for their breathtaking visuals. Their performances are so powerful, you would never expect such refined skill from such an adorable aesthetic, which is known to captivate the hearts of their fans. The group is produced by Misa Kimura, a model and TV personality who is also the general producer of “KAWAII LAB. She will utilize her experience and creativity as the leader of the idol group “Musubizm” to introduce idol culture to the world.
Expressing FRUITS ZIPPER’s world through collaborations with creators
Furthermore, even before their debut, the group drew a lot of attention because of their collaborations with many different renowned creators. Among the collaborations includes the artist photos created by video director/art director/3DCG artist YUKARI. She uses a cutting-edge trend of CG-moving techniques, in addition to still-images. The mysterious colors of bright light that embraces the girls are definitely eye-catching.
Catchy and cute choreography of FRUITS ZIPPER
@fruits_zipper ハートハート #わたしの一番かわいいところ ♬ わたしの一番かわいいところ – FRUITS ZIPPER Followed by the debut song “Kimino Akaruimiraiwo Oikakete,” a song with a positive message for the future, “Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro,” with its cute choreography and lyrics, won the hearts of people and was selected as one of the “TikTok Hot Songs in Japan” and charted on the Billboard. More than 13,000 videos using ”Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro” have been posted on TikTok with the hashtag “#わたしの一番かわいいところ (Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro).” The long-awaited third single “Kanpeki Syugide☆”, which was released on May 20, is an energetic tune created by music producer Manaka Suzuki.
Performances that reach into people’s hearts and minds
A pop-culture event presented by Asobisystem “ASOBE!!,” was held at Spotify O-EAST on May 26th. In addition to FRUITS ZIPPER, fellow Asobisystem members Atarashii Gakko! and IDOLATER, who is also a member of “KAWAII LAB.”, performed at the event. Many other remarkable idol groups also took part in the event, enlivening the venue.
Alongside their regular performances, they are scheduled to participate in a number of events, including the “LEADING PALETTE! and “HYPE IDOL! vol. 20” at Nihonbashi Mitsui Hall both June 12th. Make sure to come and see their live performance, it’s sure to steal your heart!Additionally, KAWAII LAB. will be serialized on “Moshi Moshi Nippon,” a website that provides the latest news of Japan to the world. The articles will be published in hopes of sharing the charm of IDOLATER and FRUITS ZIPPER with people not only in Japan, but also around the world. Details will be announced soon. Stay tuned for more from KAWAII LAB.!
Information
KAWAII LAB.
Twitter: @kawaii__lab
YouTube: KAWAII LAB.FRUITS ZIPPER
Twitter: @fruits_zipper
Instagram: @fruits_zipper
YouTube: FRUITS ZIPPER
TikTok: @fruits_zipperIDOLATER
Official HP: https://note.com/idolater
Twitter: @Official_IDLT
Instagram: @idolater_official
YouTube: IDOLATERMisa Kimura
Twitter: @misaxmas_
Instagram: @misaxmas -
HARAJUKU App Launches Collaboration with Love Live! Super Star!! at Famous Takeshita-dori
19.May.2022 | ANIME&GAME
From May 20 until June 5, 2022, AppBank is bringing fans of Love Live! Superstar!! a special treat in collaboration with the HARAJUKU app! By launching the app at a check-in spot in Harajuku, users can win a limited-edition Love Live! toy at random, such as acrylic keychains or pins.
App Splash Page
HARAJUKU Map
Random Toy Screen
For those winning a toy, the item can be picked up in front of the CUTE CUBE HARAJUKU Love Live! Superstar!! Wall Panel or at YURINAN Harajuku Takeshita-dori Yu-rin An. In celebration of the event, CUTE CUBE HARAJUKU will be featuring Love Live wall panels during this period, so be sure to go get some great pictures!
Information
HARAJUKU x Love Live! Superstar!!
Running: May 20, 11:00 – June 5, 19:00iOS: https://apps.apple.com/jp/app/id1607258322
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tb.harajukuOfficial Site: http://www.appbank.co.jp/
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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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MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS HARAJUKU Announces ‘My Ty Rooms Harajuku’ Collaboration
ASOBISYSTEM, a company aiming to broadcast Japanese pop culture from Harajuku to the rest of the world, has teamed up with Rokuyon Corporation for a special collaboration! Rokuyon manages unique private accommodations throughout Shibuya in Tokyo, and with help from Meteor APAC, the Japanese distributor of Ty’s beloved Beanie Baby stuffed animals, a new collaboration room will be available to book for a limited time only.
MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS HARAJUKU, a home-sharing facility produced by ASOBISYSTEM, is offering a Ty-inspired room from April 23 until May 22, 2022. The room looks more like an art gallery than a guest house and was designed by Ty’s content director Harris.
Children can enjoy a number of Ty amenities, while adults will enjoy taking home a Ty A3-sized tote bag to remember their unique visit. Those taking the tote bag will be able to fill it with all the Ty stuffed animals they want for only ¥1,650 (Tax Included)!
A social networking campaign exclusively for guests will also be underway soon! Those posting with the hashtag #moshimoshirooms and #ty will receive one free Ty plush toy!
Information
My Ty Rooms HARAJUKU
Available: April 23 – May 22, 2022
Address: MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS HARAJUKU (2-18-7 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)
Access: 8-minute walk from Meijijingu-mae Harajuku Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line/Fukutoshin Line
Reservations: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/47207073
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xxxHOLiC Exhibition Opens at WITH HARAJUKU HALL to Mark Upcoming Live-action Film
A special xxxHOLiC exhibition will open at WITH HARAJUKU HALL in Shibuya on April 29, 2022! The event is being held to celebrate the release of the live-action xxxHOLiC film on the same day.
Written and illustrated by the manga group CLAMP, xxxHOLiC ran from 2003 until 2017 in Weekly Young Magazine and Bessatsu Shonen Magazine. The series has been a best-seller, with over 14 million copies in circulation, and has been adapted into an anime series, anime film, and live-action television series. An all-male stage play aired in Tokyo in September 2021. The upcoming xxxHOLiC film is the first live-action film adaptation by photographer Mika Ninagawa. This exhibit will include behind-the-scenes footage and images along with a puzzle-solving game!
Exhibition
©2022映画「ホリック」製作委員会 ©CLAMP・ShigatsuTsuitachi CO.,LTD./講談社
Exhibition Hall
©2022映画「ホリック」表裏世界没入展実行委員会©CLAMP・ShigatsuTsuitachi CO.,LTD./講談社 Photo by Mika Ninagawa
Guests will be able to see stills, costumes, props, and artwork from the upcoming film, as well as a ‘visit to the wish-granting shop!’ Take some pictures at an incredibly detailed photo spot, and check out images of the film’s incredible cast. xxxHOLiC will star Ryunosuke Kamiki, Kou Shibasaki, Tina Tamashiro, Daoko, Serena Motola, and many more beloved stars.
*Hokuto Matsumura, who plays Shizuka Doumeki, will not be featured in the exhibition.
xxxHOLiC Puzzle Solving Game ‘The Mysterious and Curious Tale’
Get ready for a completely original new mystery game! Players will transform into the characters of xxxHOLiC to solve a mystery assigned to Yuko Ichihara and Kimihiro Watanuki. What’s the real cost of making a wish?
©2022映画「ホリック」製作委員会 ©CLAMP・ShigatsuTsuitachi CO.,LTD./講談社
Information
xxxHOLiC Behind the Scenes Exhibition Supported by WITH HARAJUKU
Address: WITH HARAJUKU HALL (1-14-30 Jingumae, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo)
Access: 1-minute walk from Harajuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line, a 1-minute walk from Meijijingumae Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line/Fukutoshin LineRunning: April 29 – May 15, 2022
Hours: 10:00-16:30 (Last entry at 16:00) *Open 10:00-19:00 from May 9 – May 13 (Last entry at 18:30)
xxxHOLiC Puzzle Solving Game ‘The Mysterious and Curious Tale’: 17:30-19:30 (Area closes at 20:00) *Open 20:00-22:00 from May 9 – May 13
Official Site: https://xxxholic-movie-event.com
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Legendary Street Fashion Magazine FRUITS Launches Collaborative Issue with atmos pink
10.April.2022 | FASHION
FRUiTS, a magazine capturing the essence of Harajuku culture through fashion, will release a special issue in collaboration with women’s sneaker store atmos pink and SNKRGIRL, the first and only sneaker news site for women in Japan.
SNKRGIRL, Japan’s first and only sneaker media for women by women, is participating in this special collab with FRUiTS, the legendary street photo magazine that introduced Harajuku culture to the world, and atmos pink, the popular Tokyo-based sneaker select store for women.
Bikkuriman Sticker
FRUiTS editor-in-chief shot the images for the special issue. Female sneaker lovers are becoming more common in the Japanese fashion scene, with #SneakerGirls often trending on social media.
The new issue will feature popular influencers who attended SNKRGIRL’s recent Harajuku Snap Party, as well as models, dancers, and women from many other walks of life. The magazine will be a way to see what Harajuku fashion looks like in 2022, and each issue will include a special Bikkuriman sticker!
The cover features influential model YURINO, a big name in the fashion and sneaker scene. Readers can enjoy an interview between Harajuku fashion expert Kaoru Takami and FRUiTS editor-in-chief too, so don’t miss it!
Information
FRUiTS atmos pink × SNKRGIRL
Release Date: March 31, 2022
Where to Buy
atmos pink Stores /atmos pink Web Store: https://www.atmos-pink.com/
SNKRGIRL Official Shop: https://sneaker-girl.store/products/fruits_atmospink_snkrgirl_magazine
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Harajuku Girls Magazine Zipper to Return to Quarterly Release Schedule After 5 Years
23.December.2021 | FASHION
Popular Harajuku-based fashion magazine Zipper, which ceased publication in 2017, will return in March 2022! The rebirth of the magazine is being spearheaded as a joint venture between DONUTS Inc. and ASOBISYSTEM.
Zipper was first published in 1993 as a way to say “NO!” to traditional style. It continued to inspire creative minds for 24 years until it ceased publication in 2017, and many Harajuku-based celebrities and influencers cite the magazine as a major source of inspiration over the years. Now, this beacon of individuality and fashion is making a triumphant comeback right when the world needs it most.
In addition to the magazine, Zipper will also be available on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter, opening up the brand to fans of Japanese fashion around the world. More details will be announced in the future.
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A Tachikoma From Ghost in the Shell SAC_2045 Arrives at New Balance Harajuku
25.November.2021 | ANIME&GAME / FASHION / SPOT
As a part of the brand’s 9BOX series, New Balance has released a new graphic T-shirt collection in collaboration with Ghost in the Shell SAC_2045. The items went on sale November 12, and to commemorate the release, a Tachikoma from the series has arrived at New Balance Harajuku! For those who may not have seen the series, a Tachikoma is an AI tank prominently featured in the Ghost in the Shell universe.
T-Shirt
Long Sleeve T-Shirt
Collaboration Sticker
Picture Frame
Motoko Kusanagi, the main character of the series, perfectly exemplifies the New Balance brand, which promotes ‘fearless independence.’ Five new t-shirt designs are now available, all drawn by Ilya Kuvshinov, the character designer for Ghost in the Shell SAC-2045. The collection is available at official New Balance stores nationwide, as well as the online store and participating ABC Marts. Those who purchase items from the collection will receive a collaboration sticker, and a special picture frame will be available on the New Balance official store app NB Shop.
New Balance’s flagship store in Harajuku is celebrating its fifth anniversary this year and was the backdrop for the cover of Rolling Stone Japan to promote the collaboration. Fans of the anime series shouldn’t miss out on these stylish threads!
Information
Ghost in the Shell SAC_2045 x New Balance
On Display from November 20 – December 2, 2021
Location: New Balance Harajuku
Collab Details/Store: https://shop.newbalance.jp/shop/e/eEnb-app-9boxgits
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KAWAII MONSTER KITCHEN by ASOBISYSTEM Opens in Osaka
For visitors to Tokyo who love Japanese pop culture, the KAWAII MONSTER CAFE was a rite of passage. Opened in Harajuku in 2015 and produced by the Godfather of Kawaii himself Sebastian Masuda, the restaurant was a love letter to all things cute. Starting in February 2021, ASOBISYSTEM has taken over the operation of this beloved property.
Regrettably, due to the state of the world, KAWAII MONSTER CAFE HARAJUKU closed at the end of January 2021. However, the spirit of this colorful place isn’t dead, and a new concept and menu are now coming to fruition in Osaka!
Contents
Monster Cake and Choppy
Monster Burger
Colorful Tonkatsu Monster Burger (Red): ¥1,380 (Tax Included, Drink Included)
This bright red monster burger will make a great subject for an Instagram photo and is filled with pork cutlet and bacon dipped in a special tomato sauce.
Colorful Shrimp Fritter Monster Burger (Blue): ¥1,380 (Tax Included, Drink Included)
This tasty shrimp fritter sandwich is best enjoyed with plenty of tartar sauce!
Colorful Blue and Red Mini Burgers: ¥1,280 (Tax Included)
Can’t decide which burger you’d like to try? How about both! Guests can also design their own monster burgers with a special topping kit.
Monster Cooking
Cooking Class Fee: ¥700 (Tax Included)
Cooking Class Fee with Cutlery: ¥1,000 (Tax Included)
Length: 30 minutes
Ages 9+
Quiz Rally Card
Traverse the four floors of the Hug Museum for a special quiz rally! There will be one question on each floor, marked by Choppy! Those who answer all the questions correctly will receive an original mask case!
Monster Merchandise
The Hug Museum, sponsored by Osaka Gas, offers plenty of hands-on exhibitions related to food. The grand opening of the KAWAII MONSTER KITCHEN was held on November 2, and inspired children and adults alike to have fun with their food and embrace all th ings kawaii. A photo spot featuring a massive monster cake has also been installed, supervised by Sebastian Masuda. Come experience the spirit of kawaii culture in Osaka!
Information
KAWAII MONSTER KITCHEN
Grand Opening: November 2, 2021
Address: Hug Museum (3-2-59 Chiyozaki, Nishi-ku, Osaka)
Hours: 10:00-18:00 (Closed Wednesdays, New Years)
Admission: Free (Fees may apply in certain areas)
Details: https://www.osakagas.co.jp/company/efforts/hugmuseum/lp/kawaii/
KAWAII MONSTER CAFE
Official Online Store: https://kawaimoncafe.base.shop/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kawaiimonstercafe/
Contact: kawaiimonstercafe@asobisystem.com