【Tokyo Stroll】Experiencing the Finest Quality Gateau au Chocolat at “Ken’s Cafe Tokyo”—Reservations Required
Shinjuku—Situated in the heart of Tokyo, the most populated metropolitan area in the world, and absolutely packed with travelers and tourists. It’s a pivotal ward in Tokyo connected via many transportation services including the JR Line, subway, private railways, rapid bus lines and more. Shinjuku is an absolute must-visit when sightseeing in Tokyo.
In today’s entry to “Tokyo Stroll,” Rinko Murata stopped by Ken’s Cafe Tokyo in Shinjuku, a shop specializing in Gateau au Chocolat that’s made with the best quality ingredients.
Ken’s Cafe Tokyo is very easy to get to, located just 3-minutes on foot from Exit 2 of Shinjuku-Gyoemmae Station via the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line.
The Special Gateau au Chocolat is one of the desserts served by the shop’s owner, Kenji Ujiie. Full sales of this dessert began due to strong demand from customers for it being so delicious. The word got out and immediately led to high praise that spread far and wide, and this year, the shop is celebrating its 20th anniversary!
The Special Gateau au Chocolat comes in at ￥3,000 (tax included), with reservations in abundance up to a month. When it’s freshly cooked, the outside is crispy, and the outside is creamy like fondue chocolate, making a perfect melt-in-the-mouth combined texture!
The secret to its deliciousness is in the thoroughness to use only the best ingredients. The chocolate used in the photo is from an Italian brand called “Domori.” The founder of Domori, Gianluca Franzoni, was deeply impressed with the quality taste of the Special Gateau au Chocolat, and so personally created his first and only chocolate mix called “KEN’S” to be used at the shop.
To draw out the good flavour of the chocolate, it’s made with gluten-free chocolate. Although the flavour is rich and full-bodied, the result of the taste is that makes it simple to eat.
300 gateau chocolates are made in a single day! And because each and every one of them are handmade with the utmost care and detail, it’s difficult to make any more than this, so there’s always an abundance of reservations. But if you can’t wait and need to try one straight away, limited quantities are being specially sold at Matsuya Ginza and Tobu Department Store in Ikebukuro, so be sure to check those places out.
Rinko couldn’t control her excitement at the sweet smell of the chocolate. She took no time at all to begin tasting the Special Gateau au Chocolat.
When eaten at room temperature, it tastes like terrine chocolate. Depending on what temperature you eat it at, the taste and texture will change, so with one gateau chocolate you can enjoy trying three completely different flavours. Also, the balance between the sweetness and bitterness is fine-tuned every time. If you buy one now, the bitterness of the cocoa has increased every so slightly compared to 10 years ago.
Rinko gave it her seal of approval. “The moment I took a bite, the aroma of the cocoa hit me, and the soft texture just melted inside my mouth! The balance between the bitterness and sweetness is exquisite. This delicious chocolate hit me in the head right away. Happiness is running around inside my brain. I can’t get enough of how it feels!”
You can go back via Shinjuku-Gyoemmae Station, but you should take a stroll towards Shinjuku Station instead – it’s just a 17-minute walk. Plus, Shinjuku Gyoen – Shinjuku’s imperial garden – is close by Ken’s Cafe Tokyo, so you might enjoy getting lost in your own thoughts while taking a walk through nature.
The Special Gateau au Chocolat is a perfect present for yourself or someone special. They are always waiting on orders, so if you’re interest, check out the shop’s website below and make a reservation.
■Information
Ken’s Cafe Tokyo
Address: 1-23-3 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Access: 3-minutes on foot from Exit 2 of “Shinjuku-Gyoemmae Station” via the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line
Opening Hours: 10:00-19:00
Closed: Weekends & Holidays
Website: http://www.kenscafe.jp
Model： Rinko Murata @rink0_
Rinko Murata appears in fashion magazines and is active on radio and TV. Sales of her first style book were so successful that it required extra printing during its first week. She also has a rapidly growing following across her social media profiles. As well as modelling at big fashion events, she also has her own column online at “She magazine,” and receives much attention for her work in the areas of culture and lifestyle.
Photo & Writer: Haruka Yamamoto
Editor: Sayuri Mizuno（ASOBI SYSTEM）
Translator: Joshua Kitosi-Isanga
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Kagurazaka is a busy district in Shinjuku ward that has been gaining more and more visitors recently. The focus of Kagurazaka is the long and continuous sloping street that runs from Iidabashi Station to Kagurazaka Station. It has a long history that begins in the Edo period and boasts a fusion of the Japanese spirit and an exotic mood. Today, we take a stroll to Kagurazaka with Rinko Murata who absolutely loves the atmosphere of the lively district.
Akagi Shrine is Tokyo’s foremost power spot. It is located just outside the first exit of Kagurazaka Station, so it might be a good idea to begin the stroll with a shrine visit.
The Must-Visit Location in Kagurazaka for Walking & Eating
When coming to Kagurazaka, the nikuman at Gojūban are a must, no ifs, ands, or buts. Look out for the red and green entrance! This place has been running since 1957, when it was established during the Showa period.
They have all kinds of delicious nikuman in their showcase to choose from, including their “Ganso Nikuman” or original nikuman, a longtime flavour that has continued to be sold there for 60 years.
You’ll have a hard time deciding what to go for. They sell a special shark fin nikuman. Only 30 are sold every day. They also have delectably addictive piri nikuman which are made using Chinese spices, as well as limited edition curry nikuman, spicy mapo flavoured nikuman, shiitake mushroom nikuman, mozzarella nikuman, and more.
Tear open the smooth and fluffy nikuman and out pours the meat juice! The best way to eat this original nikuman is definitely eating it while walking as soon as you buy it. There’s no other luxury like it – purchasing Kagurazaka’s most famous food and ambling the street.
Sitting diagonally opposite to Gojūban is Bishamonten Zenkoku Temple, the symbol of Kagurazaka, with a large red archway out front. It’s a great location to take a photo.
＜Gojūban＞
Address: 1F Oomiya Bldg, 4 Chome-3-2, Kagurazaka, Shinjuku-ku
Access: 7-minutes’ walk from Kagurazaka Station via Tokyo Metro Tōzai Line / 5-minutes’ walk from West Exit of JR Iidabashi Station
Business Hours: [Mon-Thurs, Sun, National Holidays] 10:00-22:00 / [Fri-Sat] 10:00-23:00
Closed: New Year’s holiday only
Telephone: 03-3260-0066
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Daikanyama is a popular little place located in a quiet residential area filled with stylish cafés and shops. It’s surrounded by big tourist areas including Shibuya, Ebisu, Nakameguro and Ikejiri-Ōhashi, so is very easily accessible. Today we head to Daikanyama with Rinko Murata-chan, a place where you can have all kinds of fun shopping, eating or simply strolling around, to visit “Coci la elle Swan,” a shop specializing in umbrellas.
“Coci la elle” – Umbrella Specialists
Coci la elle started originally stocked only one type of umbrella when it opened, a type made for protecting you from the sun. They now own a second shop in Daikanyama which opened in April this year in addition to the main shop and studio in Kiyosumi-shirakawa.
Today, we are visiting the newly-opened shop in Daikanyama, “Coci la elle2,” which goes by the name of the “swan” shop. It received this name as the number “2” looks like a swan. The closest station is Daikanyama Station via the Tōkyū Tōyoko Line. The station is only 1 stop from Shibuya and so is conveniently accessible, with Coci la elle only an 8-minute walk away from the front entrance.
Seize yourself a handmade umbrella
Coci la elle offers vibrant umbrellas in all types of colours and designs to brighten your day when those rainy days get you down. They also have umbrellas that will protect you from the blistering sun on those scorching days while also making you feel elegant at the same time.
The sun protection umbrellas are all made by hand, one by one, with their own individual designs and embroidery. The rain umbrellas are printed designs, but these are also all made by the head of the brand Chika Higashi, who makes collages out of photos and her own illustrations.
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【Tokyo Stroll】Strolling around in Harajuku which has a lot of unique spots such as popular graffiti and artistic miscellaneous stores.
Harajuku is a source of the latest unique cultures for young people in Japan. It is always full of people coming not only from Japan, but also from outside of the country throughout the year. Japanese model Rinko Murata visited the latest popular spots such as unique street art work and the curry restaurant that is known to those in the know.
To the Harajuku Tourist Center “MOSHI MOSHI BOX”
Today, we started strolling from the Harajuku Tourist Center called “MOSHI MOSHI BOX.” It is located in the cross road that is connect to Takeshita street, Meiji street, and Ura-Harajuku in Harajuku.
We asked where the popular sightseeing spots in Harajuku are to the staff in “MOSHI MOSHI BOX,” they said that the latest trend is the “street art.” It is popular among young people who post the colorful and unique pictures on social media.
Actually, the building of “MOSHI MOSHI BOX” is a great photo spot as well. It is cute and colorful monument themed a world clock designed by Sebastian Masuda.
This “MOSHI MOSHI BOX” facility is not only will tell you the recommended sightseeing spots, but it also has a Japanese souvenir store which is good for choosing a small gift for someone. They also have free Wi-Fi, electric charger, and money exchange. Check it out when you are in Harajuku.
▼Information
MOSHI MOSHI BOX Harajuku Information Center
Address：3-23-5 1F Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Hours：10:00AM to 6:00PM
Holiday：Open 7 days a week
The art work at the back street of Cat street
The graffiti on the wall at the back street of Cat street says “NOW IS FOREVER.” It is the public art work created by Stephen Powers from the United States, and it is a very popular spot among the instagramer outside of the country.
It is also cute taking selfies with this graffiti using a wide-angle lens or a smartphone. This wall art can make you take some good pictures that definitely will standout on your social media.
▼ information
Public art「NOW IS FOREVER」
Address：4-24 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
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【Tokyo Stroll】 The café that you want to visit to see someone #4 Cats working at Shinjuku-sanchome’s Café Arles
“Good service, a jolly owner and cute cats – this café is sure to heal you!”
I’m Ema Tanioku and today I’ll be introducing you to yet another café in Tokyo as the fourth edition of my series “The café that you want to visit to see someone”. Today I’ll be reporting about my visit to Café Arles which can be found at Shinjuku-sanchome. Ever since hearing that there were cats at this café, I’ve been set on going 〜♪♪
The café is very easy to access. To get to there, you can take the Toei Shinjuku line to Shinjuku-sanchome. From here, you can get to the café within a five-minute walk. Walking around the Shinjuku Suehirote theatre, the café soon came into sight. Somehow, I could sense the presence of cats just from the atmosphere…
There it was! The entrance to the café was decorated with many ornaments of cats and dogs. I don’ know why but I was filled with excitement before even having entered.
As soon as I entered, I immediately spotted a cat.
I was then greeted by the cat’s master who had a sweeping grin across his face and was wearing a hat with a cat broach. I could really feel his love for cats ♪♪
I took a sweeping glance over the café – cats, cats and more cats – there were so many cat-themed goods everywhere! Apart from cats goods, the master also collects clown goods and displayed everything all huddled together to decorate the café.
Although this was my first time at Café Arles, I immediately felt right at home as a warm feeling grew within me. I asked the master what got him into the café business and I was surprised by his response. It all started when the master was working at a mahjong parlour, where a person they knew asked them to start up a café.
The master then thought about the numerous paintings he had collected and how he was in search of a place to display them. The idea of choosing his own music, menu and decorating a café interior to his own taste really struck a chord with him.
There are many paintings displayed in the café. Amongst these are some by modern artist Tomomi Kondo, who made the paintings “please your master” and “cool your thighs”, which feature the kaban neko (café cats) Ishimatsu and Jirocho, who are “working hard” by lazing around.
Café Arles is fun and draws in even more fun. The atmosphere is filled with the love and enjoyment of the customers. That’s why I immediately felt so at home as soon as I entered. You can easily spend a long time here.
I asked the master what he recommends from his menu. His response? “My recommendation is what you want to eat the most!” he said wisely. I felt like eating Napolitan spaghetti and so that is what I ordered! (Price: ￥720 including tax)
It came with banana and giant corn ❤ – this excellent service made me so happy!
The gentle flavour of this homemade dish was delicious and I could really taste the Showa-retro Napolitan flavour to it. The drink, soup and salad services available gives this meal a perfect score for portion size satisfaction!
The master allowed me to take his café cat Jirocho-kun out for a walk. This was the first time I’d ever walked a cat – a new, fresh experience!
Jirocho-kun is a very calm and obedient cat, so we had a lovely stroll together. Speaking of which, Jirocho-kun loves his owner so much that he runs to meet him whenever he hears his car pull up at the shop.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the café. “I enjoyed every minute of it” explained the master happily. The master created a place where everyone can be happy and in return everyone supports him. Perhaps this cycle is the motivational force that has kept and will continue to push this café to live and thrive.
I’m glad I came to this café today and met such a special person.
I want to come here again and have another chat with the master!
■Information
Cafe Arles
Address：1st floor, 5-10-8, Shinjuku, Tokyo
Opening h0urs: 11:30 〜 22：00
Regular holidays days: Sundays, New Year’s period holiday period
Access：398 metres from Shinjuku Sanchome station (reach via Toei-Shinjuku line/ Tokyo Metro Marunouchi line
URL：https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1304/A130401/13087540/
Model & Writer: Ema Tanioku
Profile: “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.
Instagram：@ematanioku
Photographer：Haruka Yamamoto
Editor：Ryoichi Komaba
Design:Yuko Abe (ASOBISYSTEM)
Translated by: Samantha Fernandes
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【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.
“Although there are many great things about chain stores, the café has their own dream.”
The café that reminds me of Showa era is somehow nostalgic and comfy inside.
I, Emma Tanioku, who love to visit the new café restaurants is going to introduce the café that will make you want to see particular person in their café.
Today, I came to Jinbo-cho that is good access from middle of Tokyo, and you don’t have to change the train line from Shibuya station.
Jinbo-cho is socially known as the town which has many secondhand bookstores, it is actually the town for gourmets as well.There are many hidden old-established restaurants in this great town.
I want to introduce this café that I was especially curious about.
“Sabouru” which you can say its representative retro cafe. It locates right there from the exit A7 in Jinbo-cho train station.This 62 years historical café has established in 1955.
In front of this café which appears to look like small mountain hut, there is a red public telephones surrounded by some flowers, plants and a totem pole.This makes me want to take a picture in front of there.This public phone is actually functional, so I heard some people are still using it.
There are floor first, semi basement and mezzanine inside. It is little dark inside, but you can still enjoy reading books.Either if you come here alone or with your friends, you can spend the relaxed time.
The miscellaneous goods that decorated inside the café were donated by customers.
Even though they are all different kinds of souvenirs from all over the world, they look like it’s coordinated perfectly.I bet the customers who are big fan of this café decide to buy the good souvenirs which are going to match with this store’s atmosphere. For your information, you can decorate your souvenirs inside the cafe even if you are not regular customer.
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Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden is a former Daimyo Garden, or imperial garden, of the early Edo period, along with the Koishikawa Kōrakuen Garden. Part of the charm of the garden is the large pond in the middle which people can walk around to appreciate the serene surroundings. The garden is a diamond in the rough as it is situated in a part of Tokyo where offices are dotted everywhere. The garden itself feels cemented in history and is a popular spot visited by company workers on their break, as well as tourists. There is a quiet stillness to the garden, a place where you can even experience feeling the changing seasons. Today, we take a stroll through the Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden with Saki Shibata.
A Daimyo Garden with a history deep-rooted in early Edo
The garden is a 1-minute walk from the north exit of the JR Hamamatsuchō Station, and a 3-minute walk from the B2 Exit of Daimon Station via either the Toei Asakusa Line or Toei Ōedo Line. Hamamatsuchō Station is just 17-minutes from Shibuya Station on the inner loop of the Yamamote Line, so it’s easy to get to.
General Admission to the garden is just ￥150, and ￥70 for Over-65s. Entry is free for those below elementary school grade, people residing in the city, and middle school students enrolled in the area. The scenery you will witness as you enter the garden is unique to that of such a city—a beautiful contrast between the greenery and the pond water against a backdrop of towering buildings.
A garden where you can feel nature against your skin
You can experience the true essence of Japan by seeing pine trees up close and personal. The bright green laws in summertime are fresh; the faint scent of grass will leave you feeling tranquil. You get to see the flowers dotted around Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden change with the seasons, meaning you can enjoy hanami, or flower-viewing in Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter.
It’s a place where you can spend a relaxing time and dedicate some graceful reading time. Although it’s in the middle of Tokyo, the garden is far away from all the ruckus, so you can get nice and comfortable.
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Nestlé Japan is opening a new branch of KitKat Chocolatory inside Shibuya’s new shopping mall Miyashita Park on August 4, 2020.
KitKat Chocolatory is a direct-to-consumer chain, serving premium, handcrafted KitKats made with top quality ingredients and production methods under full direction by Takagi Yasumasa―the owner and chef of LE PATISSIER TAKAGI. Its product line-up features a range perfect as gifts to friends, family and co-workers, or as a treat to yourself.
Japan is home to eight KitKat Chocolatory branches. The new Miyashita Park Shibuya branch will open as the fourth in Tokyo, as well as the first where you can create your own KitKat products.
My KITKAT: ¥2,000 (Before Tax)
“My KITKAT” comes as the world’s first KitKat service where consumers can create their own original chocolate bars.
KitKat Waffle: ¥1,000 (Before Tax)
KitKat Chocolatory Sublime Soft Cream: ¥630 (Before Tax)
KitKat Chocolatory Miyashita Park Shibuya will also sell a variety of unique and exclusive KitKat desserts, like luxurious soft serve ice cream topped with couverture chocolate. It will also offer a cafe menu created by Nespresso, where customers can pair Chocolatory desserts with seasonal coffee menus, and more.
Shibuya-esque wall art will decorate the interior of the shop, making for plenty of photo opportunities.
Information
KitKat Chocolatory Miyashita Park Shibuya
Grand Opening: August 4, 2020
Address: Miyashita Park South 2F, 6-20-10 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
Opening Hours: 11:00-21:00 (Last Orders 20:00)
TEL: 03-6427-6811
Official Website: https://nestle.jp/brand/kit/chocolatory/
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In this edition of The Café That You Want to Visit to See Someone, I visited Sepia in Shibamata, a Showa-retro style cafe which I’ve always wanted to visit.
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.
It’s been seven years since I came to Tokyo. Visiting Shibamata made me me realised how many places there are which I still don’t know about. It invigorated me. As my mind wandered with these pondering thoughts, I finally spotted the sign outside the cafe, and it sure is a cute one!
The moment I stepped inside, I stood, my mouth agape, and looked at my surroundings. It’s the first time I’ve entered such a bright, shining cafe. It was littered with characters I’ve never seen before, manga, magazines, and more.
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.
The owner of Sepia is Kiyoko Hasezawa. The cafe gets its name from the manga Milky Sepia Monogatari by Ako Mutsu. Ms. Hasezawa said that she wanted to bring to life the world of the manga she loved. The cafe is full of her dreams and is enjoyed by everyone, both children and adults alike.
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）Information
Sepia
Address: 7-4-11 Shibamata, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo
Days Open: Fridays, Saturdays, Mondays
Business Hours: 12:00-17:00 (Last Orders 16:30)
For the latest information, visit Sepia’s official Twitter page @sepia_mama -
Lumine EST Shinjuku is set to hold a campaign from July 21 to August 31 this year as part of Walt Disney Japan’s “Positively Minnie” promotion.
Disney “Positively MINNIE”
Minnie Mouse is known as an independent, charming spirit as well as a fashion icon. Positively Minnie is a promotional campaign launched by Disney for the global market which has Minnie inspiring all with her positive personality. She intends to teach us to live our best lives how we want to.
No shortage of Kawaii merchandise
29 shops inside Lumine EST Shinjuku are participating in the event by stocking their own range of Minnie Mouse merchandise. Let’s take a look at some of them.
Minnie Mouse Ringer Telephone T-Shirts: ¥5,490 Each (Tax Included)
Shop: GYDA (Floor B1F) *Lumine EST exclusive, limited edition
Minnie Mouse Fleece Lined Tight Skirt: ¥8,800 (Tax Included)
Shop: Merry Jenny (Floor 2F)
Minnie Socks: ¥2,750 (Tax Included)
Shop: Tabio (Floor 3F) *Limited edition item
Minnie Mouse Mobile Cases: ¥4,180 Each (Tax Included)
Shop: Lycka (Floor 4F) *Lumine EST exclusive, limited-edition
Large Rollbahn Notebooks With Pocket: ¥850 Each (Tax Included)
Shop: Smith (Floor 6F) *Lumine EST exclusive
There will also be a pop-up shop by PONEYCOMB on the first floor of Lumine EST Shinjuku where you can get your hands on limited-edition merchandise with original art. It will be open from July 31 to August 13, and the items will also be available on Lumine’s online shop until August 31.
When customers buy select items from the pop-up shop, they’ll receive one of the three top stickers pictured above. When they order online, they’ll receive one of the bottom three.
Luminest EST Shinjuku will be decorated in all things Minnie Mouse for the event, so that fashionista Minnie can serve her positive vibes to all who visit this summer.
©DISNEY
Information
Lumine EST Shinjuku Positively Minnie Campaign
Running: July 21, 2020 – August 31, 2020Location: Lumine EST Shinjuku (Connected to JR Shinjuku Station’s East Exit) / Lumine Online Shop
Campaign Website: https://www.lumine.ne.jp/est/positivelyminnie/ *Accessible from July 14 at 18:00 (JST)
Lumine Online Shop: https://i.lumine.jp/
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A new shaved ice shop by the name of Kakigoori Parlor Floche is now open on the 8th floor food arena “The PARK SHINJUKU” inside LUMINE EST Shinjuku for a limited time until August 31, 2020.
Kakigoori Parlor Floche is inspired by floche, a cake served at a Japanese cafe in the 70s and 80s which they have turned into shaved ice. Its luxurious taste is similar to a cake, with an appearance that’s sure to have you smiling when it arrives at the table. It’s topped generously with cream, creating a cake x shaved ice fusion.
“Floche” is a French word meaning fluffy, a fitting name for a shop specialising in serving sweet and fluffy shaved ice. They have prepared three different flavours: Tiramisu, Shortcake, and Japone.
Shortcake: ¥980 (Before Tax)
Tiramisu: ¥830 (Before Tax)
Japone: ¥880 (Before Tax)
If you’re in Tokyo this summer, don’t miss out on this delicious and refreshing line-up.
Information
Kakigoori Parlor Floche
Opening Hours: 11:00-21:00 (Last Orders 20:00)
Address: LUMINE EST Shinjuku 8F, 3-38-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
TEL: 03-6457-4566
No Fixed HolidaysOfficial Website: https://www.potomak.co.jp/shop/6392/
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When talking about traditional Japanese clothes, the first to come to mind is undoubtedly the kimono, something adored the world over. But another type of traditional attire from Japan that’s gaining attention for adapting more to today’s modern lifestyle is the haori. NOBLE SAVAGE is a new brand by 10th generation owner of Kondaya Genbei set to be sold inside Shinjuku Isetan for a limited time.
NOBLE SAVAGE is redefining tradition by taking the ancient dyeing and weaving techniques forged in Japan and adding new value to them by adapting them to today’s lifestyle.
The haori is incorporated into a diverse number of outfits in Europe and America, from everyday clothes to streetwear. Kondaya Genbei has a history spanning over 280 years. Using their enormous inventory is materials from around the world, they are using Japanese techniques to weave new haori.
NOBLE SAVAGE Haori: ¥63,800
This design is known as the yabure-kouji, an iconic design by the 10th generation owner. It’s a revival of a pattern worn by people working in kabuki theatre around 250 years ago and holds the meaning of “breaking down order.”
NOBLE SAVAGE Haori: ¥418,000
This muga silk is handwoven with wild silkworm and dyed with vegetables. The pockets are arranged with a special silver leaf that has been used by Kondaya Genbei for 100 years.
NOBLE SAVAGE Haori: ¥69,300
Made from deadstock Laos fabric and dyed with catechu, something which has been used since the Nara Period, the haori gets a distinct earth colour.
NOBLE SAVAGE is also collaborating with Pascal marie desmarais to release washable face masks online at Isetan on June 16 at 10:00 (JST).
NOBLE SAVAGE will showcase their products at a showrooming in Isetan Shinjuku from June 17 to 23 and sell them from June 24 to 30.
Information
NOBLE SAVAGE
Showrooming: Isetan Shinjuku (Floor 1F) / June 17, 2020 – June 23, 2020
Sales: Isetan SHinjuku (Floor 7F) / June 24, 2020 – June 30, 2020Offiial Website: https://www.mistore.jp/shopping/feature/living_art_f2/gofuku2_l.html
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Japanese beauty company SABON opened its first ever pop-up shop on Wednesday on the first floor of Isetan Shinjuku in the makeup and promotion section. The shop will run until June 23, 2020.
Items on show include classic SABON products as well as their “TOKYO CELEBRATION” line-up, a collection of “modern Japonisme” items made in collaboration with millennial generation Japanese calligrapher MAMI. The fragrance of this special collection is “Clear Citrus Green” which combines notes of sparkling lemon, fresh verdure, transparent jasmine, and dreay orange blossom.The collection is first on pre-sale at the Isetan Shinjuku pop-up store until June 23. After that, it will go on limited sales at SABON stores across Japan and SABON’s online store on June 25.
Additionally, customers who spend over ¥8,000 (tax included) on the TOKYO CELEBRATION collection have the chance to receive the above-pictured fan. These are available while supplies last.
Information
Pop-Up Shop
Location: Isetan Shinjuku (1st Floor Makeup/Promotion)
Running: June 10, 2020 – June 23, 2020Line-Up: SABON Products / TOKYO CELEBRATION Collection
Prices: ¥1,300-¥18,500 (Before Tax)
Official Website: https://www.sabon.co.jp
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As part of the second SCRAP x SNOOPY Puzzle Game Project taking place at TOKYO MYSTERY CIRCUSーthe world’s first puzzle-themed theme parkーthe Shinjuku-based theme indoor theme park has its third batch of original and exclusive merchandise which is comprised of 8 new pieces.
This will be the final batch of merchandise made for the project, featuring illustrations of Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and other characters from Peanuts and themed around the puzzle game.
Puzzle Origami: ¥1,000
7 of the 8 origami designs come with their own puzzle. When you make your own Snoopy and Charlie Brown, the puzzle is completed too.
Puzzle Mirror: ¥1,000
Puzzle Folders: ¥900 Each
Puzzle Handkerchief: ¥1,200
The merchandise line-up sold at TOKYO MYSTERY CIRCUS is available to people not participating in the event too. The first two batches of merchandise are also available via the online SCRAP GOODS SHOP.
An English version of the second puzzle game, officially titled “Snoopy and the Secret Recipe,” was released at TOKYO MYSTERY CIRCUS on June 11 so that English speakers can enjoy the event too.
© 2020 Peanuts Worldwide LLC
Information
SCRAP x SNOOPY Puzzle Game Project
Event Page: https://mysterycircus.jp/snoopy/en/
TOKYO MYSTERY CIRCUS
Address: APM Bldg., 1-27-5 Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 160-0021
Opening Hours: Weekdays 11:30-23:00 / Weekends & Holidays 09:30-23:00
No Fixed Holidays.
Price: Free Entry (*Separate tickets required for games)
TOKYO MYSTERY CIRCUS x Snoopy Official Website: https://mysterycircus.jp/snoopy/en/
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Sony Creative Products Inc., an agent of the Peanuts franchise in Japan, has announced that it will open an official men’s shop called “PEANUTS TRAILER SHOP” in Yaraicho, Shinjuku on June 6, 2020.
Yaraicho is an ancient and historical area just a 3-minute walk from Kagurazaka Station via the Tokyo Metro Tōzai Line. PEANUTS TRAILER SHOP will open in a part of Yaraicho called “Oku Kagurazaka” which is home to a variety of stylish restaurants, galleries, and more. The shop is in fact inspired by American-style trailers.
The shop will sell cabinets and lockers from British furniture company Bisley; foldable chairs from US chair makers Clarin whose chairs have been used at Madison Square Garden, stadiums, schools, and elsewhere; clothes from Brittany, France-based company Le Minor; bags and wallets from Joe Porter; glasses from French tempered glass tableware and kitchenware manufacturer Duralex; and more.
So that everyone can enjoy a relaxing shopping experience, customers must book a slot in advance to shop at PEANUTS TRAILER SHOP which can be done via their official website.
©2020 Peanuts Worldwide
Information
PEANUTS TRAILER SHOP
Address: 41 Yuraicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo
TEL: 03-6280-8576
Opening Hours: 11:00-19:00
Closed: WednesdaysOfficial Website: https://peanutstrailershop.jp
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Eggs ‘n Things Japan has announced that it is releasing its “Harajuku Chocolate Mint Pancakes” and “Mango Salsa Chicken & Eggs” to all branches throughout Japan (excluding temporarily closed branches).
Harajuku Chocolate Mint Pancakes: Eat In ¥1,480 (Before Tax), Takeout ¥880 (Before Tax) | Serving: May 15, 2020 – June 11, 2020
The Harajuku Chocolate Mint Pancakes speak for themselves. Enjoy a serving of mint flavoured pancakes drizzled in smooth mint cream which is sure to send a refreshing tinge through your nose. It’s topped with an Oreo cookie, chocolate mint ice cream, and served with a side of chocolate sauce.
*The takeout option doesn’t come with whipped cream or chocolate mint ice cream
Mango Salsa Chicken & Eggs: ¥1,280 (Before Tax) *Takeout option available | Serving: May 15, 2020 – June 11, 2020
A plate of juicy fried chicken and a punchy mango salsa with a flavourful coriander taste and spicy kick.
Two perfect dishes to enjoy an early summer this year, coming to Eggs ‘n Things in Japan this Friday.
Information
Eggs ‘n Things Japan
Official Website: https://www.eggsnthingsjapan.com/ -
Nestlé Japan is collaborating with popular Japanese illustrator Misaki Tanaka to release a new series of chocolate packaging on April 15 at KitKat Chocolatory. The concept behind the packaging is to have people choose the chocolate they want based on the words and pictures branded on the single chocolate boxes.
The KitKat Chocolatory is a direct-to-consumer chain, serving premium, handcrafted KitKats made with top quality ingredients and production methods under full direction by Takagi Yasumasa―the owner and chef of LE PATISSIER TAKAGI. Its luxurious line is endless, with products ranging from the elusive ruby chocolate, whose cocoa beans give the finish product its pink colour, to volcanic chocolate made from rare cocoa beans sourced from volcanic islands.
KitKat Mekakushi Chocolatory – ¥300~¥400 (Before Tax)
There are 15 different package designs in total which will be sold for a limited time. None of the boxes have information of the flavour or name of the chocolates; instead you pick which you want based on how the packaging looks. They make for a great gift to yourself and others.
The words chosen on the packaging reflect the feelings one goes through in love or everyday life. Misaki Tanaka has provided the perfect illustrations to better picture those times.
KitKat Mekakushi Chocolatory Full Box (15 Included) – ¥5,100 (Before Tax)
Those who want all of the flavours can purchase the assorted box of 15. The box lid features another original illustration by Miskai Tanaka. And if you roll up to KitKat Chocolatory Ginza between April 15 and May 17, they will have a special exhibition of the illustrations on show.
Information
KitKat Mekakushi Chocolatory
Available: 7 branches of KitKat Chocolatory (3 in Tokyo/2 in Osaka/1 in Kawasai/1 in Hiroshima) & Nestlé Japan Website (*Only 15 sets will be sold online)
Official Website: https://nestle.jp/brand/kit/chocolatory/mekakushi/
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Pascal Le Gac Tokyo is the first overseas branch of internationally-recognised French-based chocolate company Pascal Le Gac which released some breathtaking new desserts to its menu on Wednesday.
Chocolate Parfait Flurry / Phrase Parfait Flurry
The original Parfait Flurry desserts are made in the image of a bloomed flower. When they were released back in April 2019, they instantly garnered attention across social media and news websites for their gorgeous design. Pascal Le Gac Tokyo has brought them back to the menu, this time in the form of cakes.
Cakes that are like parfaits
The new desserts take the same concept of the original parfaits, but instead turns them into cakes. But that doesn’t simply mean taking the parfait ingredients as they are and turning them into a cake. Rather, the cakes recreate the taste of the parfaits, so it’s like eating the real thing. The wine glass that the parfaits were served in have been recreated using icing to give that shiny effect, and the chocolate flowers have been cut thin so they are easy to eat.
Chocolate Flurry – ¥864 (Tax Included)
Starting from the bottom upwards, the Chocolate Flurry is layered with chocolate cookie pieces, chocolate flavoured almond sponge, chocolate cream, chocolate mousse, cacao flavoured vanilla cream, more chocolate cream, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and chocolate glaçage. Every part of this art piece is made with cacao.
Phrase Flurry (Tax Included)
Starting from the bottom upwards, the Phrase Flurry is layered with pistachio cookie pieces, almond sponge, pistachio mousse, strawberry mousse, lychee jelly, strawberry compote, raspberry flavoured fresh cream, strawberry chocolate, and red glaçage. The marriage of strawberry, lychee, and pistachio flavours is nothing short of heavenly.
*Please note that opening hours and closures are subject to change depending on the situation of the coronavirus outbreak. Check the cafe’s official website for the latest details.
Information
Pascal Le Gac Tokyo
Address: 2-12-13 Akasaka, Minato Ward, Tokyo
Opening Hours: [Weekdays] 10:00-20:00 (Last Orders 19:30) / [Weekends] 10:00-18:00 (Last Orders 17:30)Closed: Sundays
Access: 5-minutes on foot from Exit 2 of Akasaka Station (via Chiyoda Line) / 1-minute on foot from Exit 11 of Tameike-Sannō Station (via Ginza and Namboku Lines)
TEL: 03-6230-9413
Official Website: http://www.legac-chocolatier.jp/
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Dandelion Chocolate and IYEMON SALON ATELIER have joined sticky fingers to bake up their new “Tea & Cocoa Brownie” which is now being served at IYEMON SALON ATELIER KYOTO and Dandelion Chocolate Kyoto Higashiyama Ichinenzaka.
This collaboration came about to celebrate 1 year since IYEMON SALON ATELIER KYOTO opened. The chocolates fuse IYEMON SALON’s tea with Dandelion Chocolate’s organic, single origin bean to bar chocolate.
Tea & Cocoa Brownie (Uji Matcha/Houjicha) – ¥1,800 (Before Tax) *Contains 2 of each flavour
The two different flavoured brownies, Uji matcha and houjicha, are filled with a ganache made from Japanese tea and carefully selected chocolate from the Dominican Republic. The chocolate has a strong, rich flavour like that of coffee and cherries, but is still easy to get without it tasting overwhelming. The brownies are also vegan-friendly and gluten-free, containing no eggs, dairy products, wheat, or white sugar. They are the perfect accompaniment to both tea and a mild-tasting sake.
The vegan lifestyle is slowly gaining recognition in Japan, so don’t miss this chance to treat yourself to some melt-in-the-mouth vegan delights.
©Dandelion Chocolate Japan
Information
IYEMON SALON ATELIER KYOTO
Address: 481-1 Kiyoichō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 8:00-23:00 (Course Last Orders 21:00 / Grand Menu & Drinks Last Orders 22:00)
TEL: 075-744-6451
Official Website: https://www.cafecompany.co.jp/brands/iyemonsalon/atelier-kyoto/Dandelion Chocolate Kyoto Higashiyama Ichinenzaka
Address: 363-6 Masuyachō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 10:00-19:00 (Last Orders 18:30)TEL: 075-531-5292
Official Website: https://dandelionchocolate.jp/pages/shop-kyoto
