5 Fashionable Second-Hand Clothing Stores in Ueno

08.March.2018 | FASHION / FEATURES / SPOT

Ueno is home to many famous tourist spots including Ueno Zoo and the Ameya-Yokochō open-air market. But did you know that Ueno also has a lot of second hand clothing stores?

 

Let’s take a look at some of the stylish shops dotted around Ueno Station.

 

 

upperupperさん(@uprupr)がシェアした投稿

upperupper

This boutique carries a wide selection of fashionable vintage clothes. The shop’s key colour scheme in the building interior is white which provides a background against the variety of colourful fashionable items in stock. They sell men’s and women’s clothing making it a place absolutely worth checking out.

 

◼︎Information
upperupper

Address: Tsukamoto Building 1F, 6-2-5 Ueno, Taito, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 12:00-20:00

Closed: New Year’s Day

Access: 1-minute on foot from Okachimachi Station via the JR Line

TEL: 03-5817-8627

Website: http://upperupper.jp/shop/

 

 

中本洋さん(@hiroshi1098)がシェアした投稿

MAGAZINES

In addition to second-hand clothing, this store is lined with a range of vintage items too. It can be found on the way to Ameya-Yokochō, an open-air market and a famous tourist spot of Ueno, so you can stop by en route.

 

◼︎Information

MAGAZINES – Ueno Hirokoji Branch

Address: 4-8-1 Ueno, Taito, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 12:00-20:15 (Open from 11:00 on Weekends & Holidays)

No Fixed Holidays.

Access: 5-minutes on foot from Ueno Station anf 3-minutes on foot from Okachimachi Station via JR Line

TEL: 03-3836-9565

Website: http://magazines.co.jp/index.html

 

 

Hareru Thrift Store

The bargains here are incredible. You can pick up clothes super cheap from ¥500 to ¥1000! The items there have also been praised for their good condition. You might be able to find a gem among the rubble.

 

◼︎Information
Hareru Thrift Store

Address: 3-20-4 Ueno, Taito, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 12:00-20:00

Closed: New Year’s Day

Access: 2-minutes on foot from Okachimachi Station via the JR Yamanote Line

 

 

WEGO

WEGO is a casual shop popular with people of all ages that stocks stylish, modish items. If you’re interested in fashion then this popular store is a must-visit.

 

◼︎Information

WEGO – Ueno Branch

Address: 1F & 2F, 4-3-8 Ueno, Taito, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 11:00-20:00 (Weekends & Holidays 10:30-20:30)

No fixed holidays except on closed days.

Access: 2-minutes on foot from Ueno Okachimachi Station’s A5 Exit / 2-minutes on foot from Ueno-Hirokoji Station’s A2 Exit / 2-minutes on foot from Okachimachi Station’s North Exit

TEL: 03-5816-5575

Website: https://blog.wego.jp/brand/wego

 

 

Garakuta Boeki

This America-inspired store sells sundries imported from the US as well as clothes. It has a nostalgic feel to it while still feeling fresh and new. The array of items sold here will get you excited.

 

◼︎Information

Garakuta Boeki

Address: 6-9-21 Ueno, Taito, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 11:00-20:00

Closed: New Year’s Day

Access: 4-minutes on foot from Ueno Station via the JR Yamanote Line

Webpage: http://www.ameyoko.net/ueno/detail/?shop_no=32&lang=

 

Did you enjoy these picks?

 

Make sure to check the list again if you’re taking a trip to Ueno!

RECOMMENDED ENTRIES

  • Art museums and souvenir shops! Six recommended sightseeing spots in Ueno

    30.November.2017 | FEATURES / SPOT

    Ueno has Tokyo’s first art museum, museum and zoo and is a suitable place to visit for those of you who are interested in the history of Tokyo’s downtown.

     

    The Ueno Royal Museum

    “The Ueno Royal Museum” does not have a permanent exhibition but rather holds rotating exhibitions such as the “Ueno no Mori Museum Taishoten (exhibition of award-winning works)” and “Nihon no Shizen wo Egaku Ten (exhibition of paintings of nature)” on a regular basis. An original letter paper with the illustration of the Takamori Saigo’s statue is sold at the museum shop since the statue is located near the museum.

     

    ■Information

    The Ueno Royal Museum

    Address: 1-2, Ueno Park, Taitoku, Tokyo

    TEL: 03-3833-4191

    Business hours: 10:00 to 17:00

    ※The content of the exhibitions might change

    Fixed holiday: not fixed ※differs depending on the exhibition

    URL:http://www.ueno-mori.org

     

     

     

    National Museum of Science and Nature

    kaoriさん(@marushi51)がシェアした投稿

    “National Museum of Science and Nature” is a museum where you can learn about the evolution of human-kind, various animals/plants and the development of science technology. It is the only conclusive science/nature museum in Japan which has more than 4.52 million items. The skeletal preparations of Futabasaurus suzukii and T-Rex and the stuffed specimen of animals including threatened species have a tremendous impact.

     

    ■Information

    National Museum of Science and Nature

    Address: 7-20, Ueno Park, Taitoku, Tokyo

    TEL: 03-5777-8600 (hello dial)

    Business hours: 9:00~17:00 / Friday, Saturday – until 20:00 (last entrance – 30 minutes before closing time)

    Fixed holiday: Monday (Tuesday will become a holiday when Monday is a national holiday)

    • The closing date might be changed while special exhibitions are held.

    URL:http://www.kahaku.go.jp

     

     

     

    TOKYO METROPOLITAN MUSEUM

    TOKYO METROPOLITAN MUSEUM is the first public museum in Japan which was established on 1926. In addition to large exhibitions where you can observe quality works from both home and abroad, they hold various rotating exhibitions and public invitation exhibitions. You can also enjoy eating/drinking in the restaurants inside the museum. Both western-style restaurants and Japanese-style restaurants where you can eat soba (buckwheat noodles) and donburis are available.

     

    ■Information

    TOKYO METROPOLITAN MUSEUM

    Address: 8-36, Ueno Park, Taitoku, Tokyo

    TEL: 03-3823-6921

    Business hours: 9:30 to 17:30 (last entrance – 17:00)

    • Friday of August – 9:30 to 21:00

    Fixed holiday: First and third Monday (the museum will be opened if Friday or Monday is a national holiday and will be closed on the next day)

    • Special exhibitions and rotating exhibitions will be held every Monday (the museum will be opened if Friday or Monday is a national holiday and will be closed on the next day)
    • Please note that the museum might be closed or opened irregularly during the year’s end and New Year’s holidays.
    • URL:http://www.tobikan.jp

     

    >>next page

  • 【Tokyo Stroll】The cafe you that you want to visit to see someone #3 “Galant” —a retro café in Ueno

    15.November.2017 | FEATURES / FOOD / SPOT

    “It’s a mysterious café vacuum sealed with an energy that feels like it’s the time of the Japanese economic miracle”

     

    We’re at the third installment of this series where we take a stroll to old-fashioned cafes filled with a sense of nostalgia.

    I, Ema Tanioka, will be introducing to you another retro café that I am in love with. Today, we go to “Galant” in Ueno, a town where the Showa mood still lingers.

     

    Galant has continued to be loved by many people since it opened its doors back in 1977. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the popular café. “Galant” sounds a little space-y, don’t you think? It’s a little different from the norm. When I enquired to the staff about the origin of the café’s name, they told me that it comes from the Mitsubishi Galant as the owner is a fan of cars. To think that a car’s name became the name of a café! But it has a ring to it and is easy to remember, so it might actually be a huge success.

     

    Anyway, without further ado, let’s make our way there!

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    Galant is on the 2nd floor of this building. As you head up the stairs, it no longer felt like I was in the real world. A completely different world opened before me. Because of the entrance’s chic brickwork, I was surprised by the dazzling lights floating inside.

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    And here!

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    Here too! There was so much sparkle.

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    The first thing to peak my interest was the uniform the staff were wearing. So cute… You don’t see that red & yellow combination much these days. It helped amplify that retro mood of the café even more.

     

    The male staff wore red & black! Black was the base colour and had that well defined, guy-like feel to it. Together with the checkered vests, it completed that retro look. It was wonderful. The café was also playing popular Showa era songs. I really felt like I had stepped back in time.

     

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    And then… and then! The menu arrived!

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    The most popular item on the menu is the chocolate parfait (¥900 tax incl.). It was absolutely stuffed with cream all the way to the middle. For people who love sweet things this is an irresistible delight. By the way, I must ask, what do you do when it comes to the cherry on top of the parfait? The truth is, I absolutely love parfaits, but I’m really not into the cherry – I usually leave it until the end. Even though it looks so cute on the parfait…

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    Another item is the cream soda (¥750 tax incl.). When going to a café, you just have to get a cream soda!! It’s because you don’t see them around much besides at cafes and family restaurants, so I’m the person that ends up ordering one unintentionally when if I see it on the menu.

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    There’s a nice fat serving of ice cream in there. It’s a drink you can enjoy that has the aesthetic of a dessert. The melon soda is crystal clear like a precious gem. The best part about cream soda is how the ice cream slowly melts into the drink. It’s pretty fun to watch!

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    Galant is the kind of café where the more you get to know it, the more you start to love it. Its fans have been supporting it for many years, and even when I become a grandma in the future, I reckon it’ll still be bustling all the same.

     

    ■Information

    Galant (ギャラン)

    Address: 6-14-4 Ueno, Taitō, Tokyo

    Open: 8:00-23:00

    Open all week.

    Access: 2-minutes’ walk from Ueno Station via the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line / 1-minutes’ walk from Exit 5b at Ueno Station via the Hibiya Line

    URL:https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1311/A131101/13039759/

    Model&Writer:Ema Tanioku

    mmw_kissa03_05

    Profile:Ema and Eri Tanioku are well-known Aomoji-kei twin models that go by their duo name “EmaEri.” Their twin-like fashion co-ordination and cute looks have earned them a fast growing fan base. They are officially appointed tourism ambassadors and work both in Japan and overseas to promote Harajuku culture. They work as fashion models in a wide range of areas and have appeared in fashion magazines as well as on TV, in dramas, movies and more.  Instagram:@ematanioku

     

    Photograph:Haruka Yamamoto

    Editor:Ryoichi Komaba

    Design:Yuko Abe(ASOBISYSTEM)

    Translation:Joshua Kitosi-Isanga

     

  • 【Tokyo Dinner】The unique “new-drinking place” is becoming popular! Ueno Okachimachi’s bar ” Yang-Shan Aji –bo ” serving delicious Lamb meat

    03.May.2017 | FEATURES / FOOD

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    Although there are varieties of pubs and bars in the world, the Japanese gastropub has a very different atmosphere. Some bars in Asakusa or Ueno open from the morning, and recently you can spot foreign tourists in there sometimes. One of the good things about these types of bars is you can stop by there freely without making reservations like other restaurants. Although it is great to drink in the traditional Japanese pub and enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere, the unique new types of bars has been becoming popular these days. Young people are fond of their casual yet unique atmosphere.

    170428_KS_00033 170428_KS_00029

    The bar called “Yang-Shan Aji-bo” which opened last year in Ueno-Okachimachi which is known as the bar sanctuary is one of the bars that you can casually enjoy drinking at lunch time.

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    As the same bar keeper who is from North East China of the one in Kanda called “Aji-bo” which serves natural wines, they proudly serve lamb meat or appetizers that go with wine or noodles.

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    lamb skewers(1080yen include tax)

    You should order the lamb skewers(1080yen include tax) that is cooked with many parts of lamb to begin with. They have five different kinds of skewers including lamb shoulder and lamb neck, and that goes great with wine(540yen include tax). It is also fun to do bar hopping in two or three different bars around this area, but this place has good food, drinks and comfortable space so that you can’t help staying here for long hours.

     

    ■Information

    Yang-Shan Aji –bo

    Address:3-12-6 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo

    Tel:03-6803-0168

    Holiday:Open 7 days a week

    Hours:Mon – Fri 7:30AM to 9:30PM , 11:30AM to 11:00PM(L.O)

    Sat, Sun,Holidays: 13:00PM to 11:00PM(L.O)

    https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1311/A131101/13200566/

     

    −−−

    Related article:【Tokyo Lunch】 Gorge on the best hamburgers at Michelin-starred restaurant known for its exquisite tasting meat

     

    Related article:【Tokyo Dinner】The yakiniku restaurants that you want to use for special occasions.

  • 【Tokyo Stroll】Strolling in Harajuku which has a lot of great vintage clothing stores that are loved by fashionistas.

    24.May.2017 | FEATURES / FOOD / SPOT

    Harajuku is the origin of kawaii culture which is broadly known all over the world nowadays. This city is also one of the most popular sightseeing spots that you can get any items from unique young fashion to trendy fashion. Today, I went to visit some places, mainly the vintage clothing stores that certainly have the latest Harajuku culture with Fashionista Yabe Yuna who is active in Japanese fashion magazines etc.

     

     

    Starting from “Aloha Amigo”

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     “Aloha Amigo” is a new style mixed culture café and dining located in the commercial facility called “Six Harajuku Terrace.” Since this building located in back street of Cat Street, you can spend a relaxing time staying away from the hustle and bustle in this place.

     0Q0A8126

    First of all, I ordered “Amigo Taco Rice (994yen include tax)” and “Home-made lemonade. (518yen include tax)” This healthy taco rice has spicy taco meat and fresh vegetables on the top of ten-grain rice. It might look plenty, but even the girls can eat this up easily!

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    I took a picture with the friendly owner at last! All the staff are friendly, nice, and it has a great atmosphere. This place is really comfortable to me. You don’t have to hesitate to talk to them when you visited here.

     

    ▼Information

    Aloha Amigo

    Address:5-16-13 Six Halajuk terrace ,Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

    Hours:11:30AM to 11:00PM

    Holiday:Open 7 days a week(Except for the year-end and New Year holidays)

    Official site:http://harajuku.aloha-amigo.com/

     

     

    To “thrift-tokyo”

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    The next one that we visited was “thrift-tokyo” where you can purchase a variety of generations’ fashion items and miscellaneous good for a reasonable price. It is also located in the back street of Cat Street. They carry a variety of merchandise from men’s to ladies’.

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    One of the features of this “thrift-tokyo” is that you can get great vintage clothing for a very cheap price. They often do the sales like “50% off buying more than 10 items” or “buy 2 get 1 free.”

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    Why don’t you find the good one like going treasure hunting?

     

     

    ▼Information

    thrift-tokyo

    Address:3-18-18 1F Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

    Hours:12:00AM to 8:00PM

    Holiday:Open 7 days a week(Except for the year-end and New Year holidays)

    Official site:https://thrift-tokyo.stores.jp/

     

    >>next page

  • 5 recommended shops in Harajuku to buy trendy items!

    15.February.2018 | FASHION / FEATURES / SPOT

     

    Hello. My name is Shiota and I am the director of MOSHI MOSHI BOX Harajuku Tourist Information Center .

    In this article, I will introduce to you some shops in Harajuku run by famous people such as models, Instagrammers and entertainers.

    Why not get your very own Harajuku trendy items!

     

     


    BATTY GARAGE BY AYMMYS

    This is an apparel brand directed/designed by Ayumi Seto, a model.

    It is a select shop created under the concept of ,“a select shop which was started by the concept characters of “Aymmy in the batty girls.”The characters are “Aymmy,” “Veronica” and “Cassarine”in the garage of Ammy’s house.

    Many items bought by these three characters and clothes brought from their closets are sold.

    ◼︎Information
    BATTY GARAGE BY AYMMYS

    4F, Laforet Harajuku, 1-11-6, Jingumae, Shibuyaku, Tokyo

    Business hours: 11:00 to 21:00

    Access: 3 minutes on foot from JR Yamanote Line, Harajuku Station / 1 minute on foot from Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji Jingu Mae Station
    TEL:03-6804-2134
    URL:http://aymmy.com/

     

     

     

    jouetie

    This is a brand directed by a twin unit called AMIYA consisting of twin sisters who work as a models, singers and DJs.

    Many fun, street-style clothes are sold and thus the brand is gathering much attention as a brand where you can buy unique items.

    ◼︎Information

    jouetie

    Address: 6F, Laforet Harajuku, 1-11-6, Jingumae, Shibuyaku, Tokyo

    Business hours: 11:00 to 21:00

    Access: 3 minutes on foot from JR Yamanote Line Harajuku Station / 1 minute on foot from Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji Jingu Mae Station
    TEL:03-5410-2131
    URL:http://jouetie.com/

     

     

     

    BUBBLESさん(@bubblestokyo)がシェアした投稿


    BUBBLES HARAJUKU
    This is a brand created under the concept of “Good Girl or Bad Girl?” You might feel like you are looking inside a Western girl’s wardrobe since they sell unique items, simple items and used items.

    Many staff working in this shop are also working as a model or Instagrammer so it might be a good idea to use their styles as a reference.

    ◼︎Information
    BUBBLES HARAJUKU

    Address: 1F, 4-32-12, Jingumae, Shibuyaku, Tokyo

    Business hours: weekdays 12:00 to 20:00 / Saturday, Sunday and holidays 11:00 to 20:00

    Access: 8 minutes from JR Yamanote Line Harajuku / 3 minutes from Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji Jingu Mae Station
    TEL:03-5772-7126
    URL:http://www.sparklingmall.jp/

     

     

     

    faithさん(@faithtokyo)がシェアした投稿

    faith

    This is a brand directed/designed by Manami Hanashiro who has experience of working in “NADIA’s” (Harajuku) staff and designing “BUBBLES.” Her photos uploaded onto her Instagram is gathering much attention these days.

    The shop which is gaining popularity nowadays sells vintage items for women that has a dark atmosphere.

    ◼︎Information
    faith

    Address: 201, 4-31-16, Jingumae, Shibuyaku, Tokyo

    Business hours: 12:00 to 20:00

    Access: 6 minutes on foot from JR Yamanote Line, 3 minutes on foot from Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji Jingu Mae Station.
    URL:http://faithtokyo.net/

     

     

     

    PECO CLUBさん(@pecoclub)がシェアした投稿

    PECOCLUB
    This is a brand produced by the very popular model, Testuko Okuhira. Many girls are imitating her style and such girls are called a“Peco Girl.”

    Make sure to check out information about this brand via her website and her SNS since the store is opened for a limited time offer and fixed holidays are undecided.

    ◼︎Information

    PECOCLUB

    Address: HARAJUKU 80, 4-31-16, Jingumae, Shibuyaku, Tokyo

    Business hours: 10:00 to 20:00

    Access: 7 minutes on foot from JR Yamanote Line Harajuku Station / 3 minutes on foot from Tokyo metro Chiyoda Lien Meiji Jingu Mae Station
    URL:http://www.sparklingmall.jp/fs/sparklingmall/c/pecoclub

     

    How did you like this article about purchasing trendy items in Harajuku?

    Keep your eyes focused on these famous fashionable shops in Harajuku!

     

     

     

    MOSHI MOSHI BOX Harajuku Tourist Information Center

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    MOSHI MOSHI BOX is a tourist information center located at the cross road of Takeshita Street, Meiji Street, and Harajuku Street. The staff there are experts on the Harajuku area. You can get the most up-to-date news of Harajuku from the site.

     

    Services:

    Service list

    ・free wi-fi

    ・free water

    ・free PC & charge

    ・baggage room

    ・gift shop

    ・currency exchange

    Opening Hours: 10:00-18:00

    Closed: The year-end and New Year holidays

    Contact: 03-2225-6447

    Twitter・Instagram @mmb_harajuku

     

    Writer: Nao Shiota (MOSHI MOSHI BOX)

     

  • 【Used clothes in Tokyo】 Sangenjaya ZIG which is open until 24:00

    26.October.2017 | FASHION / FEATURES / SPOT

    ZIG is located on Chazawa Street that connects Sangenjaya and Shimokitazawa/Higashikitazawa and it takes 7 minutes on foot from Sangenjaya Station to get to the shop. The interior of the shop is made of wood. The shop has a moody atmosphere like an old folk house.

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    The items for men are placed at the right side of the shop and items for women are placed at the left side. Small racks are installed in the center of the shop.

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    ZIG was opened in 2015. Mao Taniguchi, the owner of the shop selects the men’s items and his wife Mai selects the women’s items.

    She comments on her selections: “I am particular about details, the design and the sizes of the clothes. You have to be a woman to find just the right item.”

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    Items with wide sleeves and tight waists, lace items which are firmly made, and jersey tops which look good to be coordinated with girly skirts… The selection is superb! I couldn’t meet with Mai but I thought she must be a person who has a good sense while looking at the clothes.

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    ZIG is a made-up word but they realized after that the word is an adjective meaning “drowsy.”

    “The three of us working in this shop are kinda “drowsy” so I like this word.”

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    The shop is owned by the Taniguchi couple and Matsuo.

    “I think the name of our shop is very catchy. ZIG. I like this name very much!”

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    Nighttime is a mysterious time that makes us feel free and innocent. The shop which is open until late night has items such as sexy dresses and oversized clothes for men. Let’s visit the shop and encounter their special clothes!

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    Dress 16,000 yen + tax, belt 73,000 yen + tax

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    Vintage tunic 23,000 yen + tax

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    Tops 7,500 yen + tax, Jacket 12,000 yen + tax

    ■Information

    Address: 1F, 3-18-6, Taishido, Setagayaku

    Business hours: 15:00 to 24:00

    Holiday: no holidays

    TEL: 03-3413-8850

    Instagram:@zig_usedclothing

    Photo:Kayo Sekiguchi
    Edit:Namiko Azuma
    Text:Miiki Sugita

     

RELATED ENTRIES

  • Ueno’s National Museum of Western Art Celebrates Reopening with Live Commentary for ‘In Dialogue with Nature’ Exhibit

    16.June.2022 | SPOT

    The National Museum of Western Art, located in Ueno Park, reopened in April 2022 after being closed for renovations for 18 months. The first special exhibition post-reopening will feature Van Gogh’s works in Japan for the first time, along with paintings depicting modern nature from both the National Museum of Western Art and the Museum Folkwang in Essen, Germany.

     

    To commemorate the post-renovation reopening of the National Museum of Western Art in Tokyo, this exhibition traces the development of modern art born out of the dialogue between nature and humankind.

     

    The event was realized in collaboration with the Museum Folkwang, and both institutions were founded on private collections: that of Karl Ernst Osthaus (1874–1921) in Germany and Matsukata Kojiro (1866–1950) in Japan.

     

    The exhibition will feature over 100 paintings, drawings, prints, and photographs from both museums, spanning from German Romanticism to the art of the twentieth century, ranging from Impressionism to Post-Impressionism. 


    Guests can enjoy all aspects of the infinite expanse of nature as shown in both collections, from the smallest roadside flowers to the vast universe and all humanity contained within. Would you like to come and experience this unique exhibition?

  • Hard Rock Cafe Releases Limited-Edition Pins of Ueno Zoo’s Panda Xiang Xiang

    17.June.2021 | FASHION / FOOD

    Hard Rock Cafe Ueno is celebrating the 4th birthday of Ueno Zoo’s giant panda Xiang Xiang with a collection of birthday pins. The limited-edition line-up was released on Thursday.

     

    4th Birthday Pin | 300 Available | ¥2,200

    4th Birthday Pin 2 | 500 Available | ¥2,200

    The two pin designs are limited in stock, the first featuring Xiang Xiang with her mother and father has 300 available, and the second one has the cute giant panda on an aeroplane branded with her birthday date with 500 available.

     

    Both pins capture Xiang Xiang’s energetic personality and are cute souvenirs to take home after meeting her at Ueno Zoo.

  • Ueno’s Real-Life Panda Idol Xiang Xiang’s 4th Birthday Celebrated With Merchandise Release

    10.June.2021 | FASHION / SPOT

    Ueno Information Center is celebrating the 4th birthday of Xiang Xiang, the giant panda who was born at Ueno Zoo back in 2017, with the release of a merchandise collection. The line-up arrived on Wednesday and is available both at the information center and via their online store.

     

    Although strict measures are in place at the center to reduce the risk of COVID-19 spreading, celebrations for Xiang Xiang aren’t completely cancelled, as fans of the adorable panda, who has become something of an idol in Ueno, can get their hands on some fun goodies.

    Ueno Panda Family Memorial Pins 2021 | ¥2,530 (Tax Included)

    Ueno Panda Family Clear Pouch YE | ¥2,200 (Tax Included)

    Ueno Panda Family Cooling Lunch Tote Bag | ¥1,650 (Tax Included)

    The collection features motifs of Xiang Xiang, her mother Shin Shin, and her father Ri Ri. The pin collection, which comes in a gold leaf-laced box, includes Shin Shin in a tree peony, Xiang Xiang amongst the cherry blossoms, and Ri Ri with lotus flowers.

     

    The pouch sees Xiang Xiang happy and energetic with her parents. It comes in a summery yellow and is made from semi-transparent matted vinyl. Perfect for storing away makeup, stationery, and any other bits and bobs.

     

    The cooling bag is made from aluminium on the inside for keeping your food fresh. It’s big enough for fitting a bento and 500ml bottle, making it handy for taking your lunch out with you.

     

    Happy 4th Birthday, Xiang Xiang!

  • Cow Brand Soap x BEAMS Japan Take Over Kotobukiyu Bath House in Tokyo

    30.April.2021 | FASHION / SPOT

    BEAMS Japan and Cow Brand Soap have teamed up to an event titled Sento no Susume 2021 which began on April 23. As part of the event, the two brands have come together at the popular Tokyo-based bath house Kotobukiyu where illustrations for the collaboration drawn by manga artist Mari Yamazaki (Thermae RomaeOlympia Kyklos) has been put up on the outside, inside, and along the walls.

     

    See the illustrations being plastered in the video below.

     

    At the bath house entrance, along the walls, and everywhere else

     

    Fashion shoots are being held at the bath house

     

    Limited-edition merchandise for Sento no Susume 2021

    For many years, sento public bath houses have been big part of Japanese culture and are located up and down the country. They are places people go to unwind, relax, and destress. However, with times changing, they are because less part of people’s lives, and the facilities themselves are seeing significant wear and tear as well as not having successors to take over the businesses. Sento no Susume aims to revitalise sento and raise their cultural value once again by showing how they can be enjoyed. The first event was held in January and February in 2019.



    This year will be the second hosting of the event and invites manga artist Mari Yamazaki on board who has given Kotobukiyu a makeover with her iconic artwork themed on exercise and bathing. Six sports are featured in her drawings for the bath house including basketball, climbing, javelin, surfing, judo, and volleyball.

     

    Have you experienced a Japanese sento before?

  • Rurouni Kenshin x Hello Kitty Collaboration Launching to Promote Manga’s Upcoming Live-Action Films

    23.March.2021 | ANIME&GAME / MOVIE

    In promotion of the forthcoming live-action films Rurouni Kenshin: The Final and Rurouni Kenshin: The Beginning, both of which will be released on April 23 and June 4 respectively this year, the series is rolling out a collaboration with Sanrio’s globally-beloved character Hello Kitty on April 14.

     

    Original Merchandise

    Rurouni Kenshin x Hello Kitty Plush Toys (2 Designs) | ¥3,850 Each (Tax Included)

    Rurouni Kenshin x Hello Kitty Plush Toys (4 Designs) | ¥2,750 Each (Tax Included)

    Rurouni Kenshin x Hello Kitty A4 Folder Set | ¥495 (Tax Included)

    Rurouni Kenshin x Hello Kitty Bottle | ¥1,540 (Tax Included)

    Rurouni Kenshin x Hello Kitty Tote Bag | ¥2,200 (Tax Included)

    Rurouni Kenshin x Hello Kitty Ballpoint Pens & Mechanical Pencils (2 Designs) | ¥770 Each (Tax Included)

    Rurouni Kenshin x Hello Kitty Hand Towels | ¥1,430 (Tax Included)

    Rurouni Kenshin x Hello Kitty Pins (6 Designs) | ¥330 Each (Tax Included)

    Rurouni Kenshin x Hello Kitty Acrylic Stands (8 Designs) | ¥715 Each (Tax Included)

     

    Rurouni Kenshin x Hello Kitty Sweets Paradise Collaboration Cafe

     

    Menu Excerpt

    Kenshin Hello Kitty Beef Bowl / Battousai Hello Kitty Omurice

    Enishi Hello Kitty Orange Crepe / Tomoe Hello Kitty Anmisu / Kaoru Hello Kitty Strawberry Pancake

     

     

    Acrylic Mascot Key Rings

    10 Designs

    Plush Toys

    This marks the second collaboration between Rurouni Kenshin and Hello Kitty, the first taking place back in 2014 in promotion of Rurouni Kenshin: The Legend Ends. Fans can get their hands on a collection of cute merchandise with Hello Kitty dressed as various characters from the series, as well as tuck into a themed menu which will first be served at Sweets Paradise Ueno ABAB from April 22 before rolling out to six more Sweets Paradise branches in Japan.

     

    ©和月伸宏/集英社 ©2020 映画「るろうに剣心 最終章 The Final/The Beginning 」製作委員会

  • Tokyo’s Masterpieces From The National Gallery London Exhibition Adds Extra Nighttime Dates

    21.September.2020 | SPOT

    The National Museum of Western Art in Tokyo has been hosting the Masterpieces From The National Gallery London exhibition since June 18 this year, and has just announced additional nighttime hour viewings, so the exhibit will be open until 21:00 from October 13 to 17.

    The exhibition brings together a special selection of 61 masterful works from The National Gallery London in Japan for the first time, such as Vincent van Gogh’s Sunflowers, Johannes Vermeer’s Lady Seated at a Virginal, and Claude Monet’s The Water-Lily Pond.

     

    Tickets for the evening viewings between October 13 and 17 will be available to purchase from September 19 via FamilyMart, e+, and Yomiuri Shimbun’s online store in Japan. More details are available on the exhibition website.

  • New Desserts Arrive at Tokyo’s Panda Themed Cafe Mainichi Panda CAFE by Saryo Ginza Seigetsudo

    11.August.2020 | FOOD / SPOT

    Saryo Ginza Seigetsudo, a cafe located on the 2nd floor of Matsuzakaya Ueno in Tokyo, has been holding its “Mainichi Panda CAFE” event since October last year where it is serving up panda themed food and drink, selling panda plush toys and books, and the cafe itself is decorated with all things pandas.

    Mainichi Panda CAFE by Saryo Ginza Seigetsudo is now introducing four new panda desserts, and its exhibition theme is celebrating the birthdays of Ueno Zoo’s giant pandas Xiang Xiang and Lili.

    Adzuki Bean & Warabimochi Panda Parfait | ¥1,100

    Japanese style parfait topped with panda-shaped ice cream.

    Panda Jonamagashi & Matcha Set | ¥1,100 *Only 4 served per day

    A Japanese ‘jonamagashi’ confection made to look like a panda wearing a straw hat.

    Panda Pancake-Style Dorayaki w/Orange Peel | ¥1,100 (With Coffee ¥1,430)

    Saryo Ginza Seigetsudo’s signature dorayaki served pancake style and branded with a cute panda face.

    Lemon Yogurt Cake Set | ¥1,210

    A slice of refreshing lemon and yogurt cake.

     

    Mainichi Panda Exhibition (Excerpt)

    The cafe has a special photo exhibition on display of the cute giant panda family that is housed in Ueno Zoo.

     

    Postcards


    Postcard image

    The first 100 customers who dine at the cafe each day will receive a free postcard of Ueno Zoo’s pandas.

     

    If you love pandas, and have visited Ueno Zoo before, then you won’t want to miss a visit to Saryo Ginza Seigetsudo.

  • Sanrio Gift’s New Shop in Ueno Welcomes Hello Kitty Panda Merchandise & More

    25.January.2020 | FOOD / SPOT

    Sanrio opened a new gift shop called Sanrio Gift Gate in Ueno on January 24, 2020. This is the 107th branch of the gift shop to open in Japan, following the openning of the Asakusa branch which opened in Asakusa last year. Aimed at tourists both Japanese and foreign, it sells merchandise of Sanrio’s popular cast of characters.

    You can’t miss the shop as a giant Pompompurin embracing a panda suit-clad Hello Kitty are waiting to greet you at the entrance. The panda is a symbol of Ueno due to Ueno Zoo housing giant pandas.

    The souvenir shop features a range of Ueno exclusives, including a line-up of six popular Sanrio characters wearing panda outfits.

    Plush Toys (6 Designs) – ¥2,200 Each / Small Plush Toys (6 Designs) – ¥1,760 Each

    Who could resist one of these cute toys? The bigger ones at 16cm tall and the small ones 11cm. The line-up includes fan favourites Hello Kitty, Pompompurin, Cinnamoroll, My Melody, Kuromi, and Pochacco.

     

    There’s also pop-up cards with a variety of designs, including one that opens up into Ameya-Yokochō open-air market, another that turns into Hello Kitty and a panda sat down, and more.

    Edo-Tamagawaya x Hello Kitty Pink Tonkotsu Ramen – ¥390

    Budoonoki Sanrio Character Baumkuchen – ¥594 Each (Hello Kitty/My Melody/Pompompurin/Cinnamoroll)

    The Salt Industry Center of Japan x Hello Kitty Table Salt – ¥248

    There’s also food and snacks amongst a whole range of other goodies, all perfect as gifts and souvenirs.

     

    Be sure to stop by Sanrio Gift Plaza the next time you’re in Ueno.

     

    ⓒ 1976, 1996, 2020 SANRIO CO.,LTD. TOKYO, JAPAN  Original Text: SANRIO CO.,LTD.

    *All listed prices include tax. Sold items receive stock turnovers.

  • Giant 5-Meter Tall Dinosaur Panda Stomps Into Ueno Station

    26.July.2019 | FOOD / SPOT

    The Dinosaur Expo 2019 began at National Museum of Nature and Science in Ueno, Tokyo on July 13, and in promotion of the exhibition, a thrilling dinosaur themed event is set to take place at the Atre Ueno shopping mall from August 1 to September 30.

    Atre Ueno is located inside Ueno Station, and if you roll into the station right now you’d best be careful of the bipedal, carnivorously cute 5 meter high panda-saur. You’ll find it on display at the station’s Grand Concourse (it’s pretty hard to miss!)

     

    You might be wondering why there’s a giant panda dressed as a fluffy dinosaur. The reason is that Ueno Zoo has its very own giant pandas which have become a symbol of the town. And the dinosaur our station panda is dressed as is the Deinocheirus, the main showpiece of The Dinosaur Expo.

    In promotion of the museum’s exhibition, 19 restaurants and cafes at Atre Ueno are serving up their very own dinosaur-inspired meals―both meat for the carnivora and vegetarian for the herbivores―as well as desserts.

     

    Head to Ueno this summer break for your fill of dino fun!

  • Celebrate Ueno Zoo Panda Xiang Xiang’s 2nd Birthday With ecute Ueno’s Panda Sweets & Merchandise

    15.May.2019 | FOOD / SPOT

    Shopping centre ecute Ueno has announced that it is holding a campaign entitled “Pandaful Party” from June 3 to June 30 to celebrate the 2nd birthday of Ueno Zoo’s popular panda Xiang Xiang. Panda themed desserts, food and merchandise will be sold at various stores throughout ecute Ueno.

    Panda Rolled Sushi Set – ¥648 (Tax Included) @ Wakahiro (ecute Ueno)

    Sushi-lovers won’t want to miss this set of rolled sushi. The three cute pandas all come with three different flavours: fried salmon, minced chicken and egg. Available at the ecute Ueno branch of Wakahiro only.

    Panda Baked Sweet Potato (100g) – ¥324 (Tax Included) @ Rapoppo (ecute Ueno)

    Aged potatoes are used to make this popular baked sweet potato treat, and these ones have a cute panda design♡

    Parent & Child Panda Eclair (1 Eclair) – ¥380 (Tax Included) @ Dolce Felice (ecute Ueno)

    These adorable eclairs feature a panda parent and cub on them. They are filled with chocolate custard and a crunchy biscuit.

    Panda Case Beans – ¥972 (Tax Included) – Mameya Bankyu (ecute Ueno) *Serving June 3 – June 16 only

    Inside these panda cases are black soybeans covered in chocolate and houjicha tea chocolate.

    Ueno Assorted Cookies (1 Tin) – ¥1,296 (Tax Included) @ Juchheim (ecute Ueno)

    Grab a cup of tea and tuck into these tin of cute assorted cookies with panda motifs on them.

    Panda Cocoa (Hot/Iced) – ¥400 (Tax Included) @ UP CAFE (ecute Ueno)

    This cup of hot panda cocoa can be enjoyed by both kids and adults alike.

    Merchandise includes cute panda salt, fortunes, a squishy and more.

    People can also get their hands on this exclusive Pandaful Party shopping bag on June 12, the day of Xiang Xiang’s birthday. These are limited in stock so you’ll want to start your shop nice and early!

  • The Micro Museum Hostel Ueno: A New Conceptual Hostel With a Gallery

    09.February.2019 | SPOT

    The Micro Museum Hostel Ueno is set to open this month in Arakawa, Tokyo.

    The hostel aims to give guests an elevated accommodation experience that goes beyond simply having them sleep there for the night. It is located in Uguisudani which despite its station connecting to both the Yamanote Line and Keihin-Tōhoku Line, has a sort of nostalgic feeling to it like that of a close-knit town. The number of tourists visiting there has been on the rise in recent years as it is close to Ueno and Negishi.

     

    As its name suggests, the hostel is home to a small museum. It was designed by Ryo Mitsui who created it so that different coloured lights shed through the outside. The entrance inside will be displayed with artwork from up-and-coming artists that will change each month.

     

    The hostel hopes to bring in not just guests to see the museum but locals too to tie everyone to art.

    The inside is minimalist yet stylish. It caters to different needs with its room variations including rooms for 2, rooms for 4 and more.

     

    Take advantage of your overnight stay to experience something new by booking with The Micro Museum Hostel Ueno.

  • Ueno’s Historical & Former Hakubutsukan-Dōbutsuen Train Station to Open for Public Viewing

    25.October.2018 | SPOT

    Hakubutsukan-Dōbutsuen Station is a designated historical structure of Tokyo. In line with its opening for public viewing, it has been revealed that new installations will be set up as part of the ‘UENOYES’ project.

    UENOYES was set up to promote the art and culture of Ueno Park and its surrounding areas to the rest of the world. Hakubutsukan-Dōbutsuen Station is next on the list of historical structures in Ueno to be showcased. Part of the station building will be accessible to the public in co-operation with Keisei Electric Railway and Tokyo University of the Arts. It will turn into a cultural platform where people can communicate with one another.

    The installations can be enjoyed while reading into stories based on research in Ueno. Original stories have been collected from the voices of many people including director Hitsujiya Shirotama as well as members of staff from the National Museum of Nature and Science in Tokyo, Ueno Zoo, Keisei Electric Railway and elsewhere. The space is also dsigned by Sakata Akiko who works in stage design.

     

    Guests will be led by guides as music plays both above ground and underground in the station building.

     

    3D-printed skeletal replicas of animals can also be found at the exhibition which are printed by Kento Mori of the National Museum of Nature and Science.

     

    Discover a new side of Ueno by following the UENOYES project.

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