Black Tea Afternoon Tea Returns to Kichijoji Excel Hotel Tokyu with a New Menu

The Kichijoji Excel Hotel Tokyu welcomes back its popular annual afternoon tea event, this year centering entirely on the nuanced flavors of black tea, presented through a completely refreshed menu. For enthusiasts of themed afternoon teas or those seeking a refined culinary experience in Kichijoji, this event offers a unique exploration of black tea incorporated into both sweet and savory preparations.

A Refreshed Menu Focused on Black Tea

Building on its annual popularity, the hotel introduces a novel selection designed to highlight different facets of black tea. A standout item is the "Earl Grey and Apple Verrine," a visually appealing dessert constructed in layers to offer evolving flavors with each spoonful; it combines a refreshing apple jelly base, a smooth milk mousse middle, and a fragrant Earl Grey jelly topping.

Beyond the verrine, the pastry chef has curated additional sweets that complement the theme. Guests can expect items such as a rich "Chocolate Terrine," offering a deep cocoa flavor, and a "Black Tea Madeleine," noted for its subtle fragrance derived from the tea infusion.

The savory offerings have also been thoughtfully designed to align with the black tea concept. Included is a "Ceylon Tea Flavored Chicken Salad," which features a dressing infused with Ceylon tea, lending an aromatic quality to the dish. Another notable savory item is the "Smoked Duck and Orange with Earl Grey Jelly," pairing moist, tender smoked duck with the distinctive citrus and bergamot notes of Earl Grey, presented in jelly form. This iteration distinguishes itself from previous years by presenting an entirely new menu, ensuring a fresh experience even for returning visitors.

Event Details

Here is the essential information for planning your visit:

• Location / Nearest Station:
  • Kichijoji Excel Hotel Tokyu
  • Kichijoji Station (approximately an 8-minute walk)
• Address:
  • 〒180-0004 Tokyo, Musashino City, Kichijoji Honcho 2-4-14
  • View Map
• Venue:
  • Lounge & Dining SORAE, located within the Kichijoji Excel Hotel Tokyu
• Event Period:
  • March 1, 2025 (Saturday) – June 1, 2025 (Sunday)
• Time:
  • A 2-hour seating limit applies.
  • Last order for drinks is taken 1 hour and 30 minutes after seating.
• Price / Fee:
  • 6,000 yen per person (inclusive of tax and service charge)
• Official Website:
  • Visit the Lounge & Dining SORAE / Kichijoji Excel Hotel Tokyu website for more details.

Please note that published content is subject to change. It is advisable to check the official website of the venue or organizer for the most current information before visiting.

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What is Kichijoji?

Kichijoji is a neighborhood in the western part of Tokyo, Japan, known for its mix of urban life and natural surroundings. It attracts both locals and tourists with its variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Inokashira Park, a notable feature of the area, provides a peaceful retreat with opportunities for walking, picnicking, and viewing cherry blossoms. Kichijoji’s combination of lively streets and cultural sites makes it a worthwhile stop for visitors to Tokyo.

The Great Kaiji Exhibition: A Retrospective on Adversity (April 5th – May 11th)

Exhibition Key Visual

Nobuyuki Fukumoto’s manga series "Kaiji," which commenced serialization in "Weekly Young Magazine" back in 1996, stands as a significant work in the gambling manga genre. It chronicles the journey of its protagonist, Kaiji Ito, who, burdened by substantial debt, engages in high-stakes gambles where life itself is often on the line. This event, titled "Retrospective of Adversity: The Great Kaiji Exhibition," offers a comprehensive look back at the numerous trials and tribulations depicted throughout the "Kaiji" series. Attendees will have the opportunity to view a collection of original drawings, some of which have never been publicly displayed before, alongside representations of famous scenes from the manga. This exhibition represents the most extensive collection of "Kaiji" materials assembled to date.

Steel Beam Crossing Exhibit Photo

■ Immersive Recreations and Photo Opportunities

The exhibition features several engaging photo spots designed to immerse visitors in the world of "Kaiji." Iconic scenarios such as the perilous "Steel Beam Crossing" and the humiliating "Burning Prostration" are recreated. Additionally, visitors can experience the "Loser’s Room," the confined space within the Espoir ship where participants branded as losers in Restricted Rock-Paper-Scissors were held. Other recreations include "17 Steps," which captures Kaiji’s decisive winning tile on the mahjong table, the poignant "Love is More Important than a Sword," and the tense "Friendship Confirmation Game." A highlight is the full-scale replica of "The Bog," the notorious pachinko machine from the Teiai Group’s underground casino, the creation of which was made possible through a successful crowdfunding campaign. These exhibits collectively offer a unique opportunity to experience the atmosphere of the "Kaiji" series firsthand.

17 Steps Mahjong Exhibit Photo

■ Venue-Exclusive Newly Recorded Voices

Enhancing the immersive experience, the exhibition will feature newly recorded audio content exclusive to the venue, performed by the distinguished voice cast from the anime adaptation. This includes Masato Hagiwara reprising his role as Kaiji, Tomoyuki Morikawa as the formidable Yukio Tonegawa, and Fumihiko Tachiki as the Narrator. Visitors will be greeted by a welcome voice message, hear Tonegawa’s memorable speech delivered aboard the Espoir, and listen to narration introducing the various gambles depicted at each photo spot. A particularly notable inclusion is an audio rendition of the climactic scene from the "Tobaku Datenroku Kaiji: 17 Steps" arc—an episode not yet adapted into anime—where Kaiji dramatically declares "Ron" eleven consecutive times. Furthermore, the full-scale "The Bog" photo spot will feature a special presentation combining Kaiji’s lines, narration, and music, bringing the high-stakes pachinko battle to life.

(C)Nobuyuki Fukumoto/Kodansha

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Exhibition Details

• Period: April 5th (Saturday) – May 11th (Sunday), 2025. Open every day during the exhibition period.
• Hours:
  • Weekdays: 13:00 – 18:00
  • Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays: 10:00 – 18:00
  • Special Hours (April 28th – May 2nd): 10:00 – 18:00
  • Last entry is permitted 30 minutes before closing time.
• Venue: Osaka Nanko ATC Gallery (ITM Building 2F, 2-1-10 Nanko-Kita, Suminoe-ku, Osaka City)
• Admission Fee:
  • General: 2,000 yen (Advance/Group: 1,800 yen)
  • High School/University Students: 1,500 yen (Advance/Group: 1,300 yen)
  • Elementary/Junior High School Students: 500 yen (Advance/Group: 300 yen)
  • Preschoolers are admitted free of charge.
• Advance Tickets: Available for purchase until April 4th (Friday) at 23:59. Advance rates also apply to groups.
• Contact: 050-1724-468 (The Great Kaiji Exhibition Osaka Venue Office)
• WEB/SNS: Official Exhibition Website

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What is Kaiji?

"Kaiji" is a Japanese manga and anime series by Nobuyuki Fukumoto. It follows Kaiji Itou, a gambler caught in high-stakes games that test his survival skills. The series delves into themes of risk and human nature through its engaging narrative and well-developed characters.

Kaiji’s story begins when he is forced into gambling events to clear a large debt. These games often have severe consequences, challenging Kaiji’s mental and emotional resilience. The series is known for its complex game designs, which demand both strategy and psychological insight.

The artwork in Kaiji is notable for its unique style, enhancing the story’s tension. Fukumoto’s storytelling combines suspense and unpredictability, offering a compelling look at human behavior under pressure.

The Great Kaiji Exhibition in Osaka celebrates the series, featuring original artwork and interactive displays. Fans can engage with the series’ themes through strategic games inspired by Kaiji. Whether familiar with the series or new to it, the exhibition offers an engaging experience in the world of manga and anime.

Uemura Matsuen 150th Anniversary Retrospective at the Nakanoshima Museum of Art, Osaka (March 29–June 1)

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Commemorating the 150th anniversary of the birth of Uemura Matsuen (1875-1949), the Nakanoshima Museum of Art in Osaka presents a major retrospective exhibition from March 29th to June 1st, 2025. Uemura Matsuen established herself as a preeminent figure in the genre of bijin-ga (pictures of beautiful women) during a period when female artists faced significant societal constraints. Through remarkable dedication and effort, she not only gained renown but also carved out a unique artistic path. While deeply respecting and studying artistic traditions, Matsuen developed her own distinct mode of figurative expression, consistently pursuing and depicting her idealized vision of femininity throughout her life.

Her portrayals of elegant and pure female figures possess a timeless quality that continues to resonate deeply with contemporary audiences. Matsuen’s prolific artistic career spanned six decades, leaving an indelible mark on the trajectory of modern Japanese art. Furthermore, her achievements position her as a crucial pioneer for subsequent generations of female artists in Japan. This exhibition represents the first large-scale retrospective of her work to be hosted at an Osaka museum, offering a significant opportunity to engage with her legacy.

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The exhibition brings together an impressive collection of over 100 works, meticulously tracing Matsuen’s artistic development from her early explorations to her mature, later-period style. Visitors will have the chance to view celebrated masterpieces, including pieces designated as Important Cultural Properties such as Mother and Child and Jo-no-mai (First Dance). Other significant works on display include Kusazoshiarai-Komachi and Late Autumn. This comprehensive assembly of exquisite paintings provides a thorough overview of Uemura Matsuen’s influential artistic journey.

■ Related Events

A series of lectures and gallery talks will accompany the exhibition, offering deeper insights into Uemura Matsuen’s art and context:

• March 29 (Sat) Lecture: "On the Art of Uemura Matsuen (Tentative Title)"

  • Speaker: Reiko Nakamura (Chief Researcher, The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo)

• April 26 (Sat) Lecture: "The Transition of Female Figures Depicted by Uemura Matsuen"

  • Speaker: Satoshi Yamada (Art Historian)

• May 11 (Sun) Lecture: "20th Century Female Painters"

  • Speakers: Megumi Kitahara (Professor Emeritus, Osaka University), Tomoko Ogawa (Curator, Osaka Nakanoshima Museum of Art)

  Details for the above three lectures:

  • Time: 14:00 – 15:30 (Doors open at 13:30)
  • Venue: Osaka Nakanoshima Museum of Art, 1st floor hall
  • Capacity: 150 people (Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis; no prior registration is required)
  • Fee: Free admission to the lecture itself; however, an exhibition ticket (a used stub is acceptable) is required for entry.

• April 16 (Wed) & May 22 (Thu) Gallery Talk by the Curator in Charge

  • Time: 15:00 – 15:45
  • Capacity: 30 people (Prior registration is required)
  • Venue: Osaka Nakanoshima Museum of Art, 4th floor exhibition room
  • Fee: Free admission to the talk; however, an exhibition ticket valid for the day of the talk is required.

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Exhibition Details

• Exhibition Period: March 29 (Sat) – June 1 (Sun), 2025
  • First Period: March 29 – May 11
  • Second Period: May 13 – June 1
• Closed: Mondays, and Wednesday, May 7. Please note the museum will be open on Monday, April 28 and Monday, May 5 (national holiday).
• Opening Hours: 10:00 – 17:00 (Last admission is at 16:30)
• Venue: Osaka Nakanoshima Museum of Art, 4th floor exhibition room (4-3-1 Nakanoshima, Kita-ku, Osaka City)
• Admission Fees:
  • General: 1,800 yen (1,600 yen)
  • University/High School Students: 1,500 yen (1,300 yen)
  • Elementary/Junior High School Students: 500 yen (300 yen)
  • Prices shown in parentheses represent advance purchase or group rates. Advance tickets are available for purchase until 23:59 on Friday, March 28.
  • Residents of Osaka City aged 65 and over are subject to the standard general admission fee.
• Contact: 06-4301-7285 (Osaka City General Call Center / Naniwa Call)
  • Reception Hours: 8:00 – 21:00 (Open year-round)
• Official Website/SNS: https://art.nikkei.com/shoen/

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Understanding Bijin-ga

Bijin-ga, meaning "pictures of beautiful women," is a genre of Japanese art that depicts women, emphasizing their beauty, grace, and elegance. This genre played a significant role in Japanese art history, especially during the Edo period, and is closely linked with ukiyo-e woodblock prints. Artists in this genre portrayed women in various contexts, from everyday life to more idealized representations, capturing the fashion, hairstyles, and cultural practices of the time.

Beyond physical beauty, bijin-ga reflects cultural and aesthetic values, illustrating idealized femininity and the societal roles of women in historical Japan. Artists like Uemura Matsuen, known for their skill in bijin-ga, have enriched the genre with emotional depth and technical precision, creating works that continue to engage audiences. Through the use of color, composition, and expression, bijin-ga provides insight into Japan’s cultural and artistic heritage, encouraging viewers to appreciate the complexity of its subjects.

Tokyo Tower’s Annual Spring Tradition! 333 "Koi Nobori" and "Sanma Nobori"

Tokyo Tower welcomes the vibrant colors of spring once again with its cherished annual event, featuring a spectacular display of carp streamers, known as koinobori, flying against the iconic orange structure and the expansive blue sky. This event offers a unique visual experience in the heart of the city, celebrating a traditional Japanese custom with a distinctive local touch.

A Sky Full of Streamers: Celebrating Children’s Day at Tokyo Tower

Coinciding with the Children’s Day holiday period, which falls within Japan’s Golden Week, Tokyo Tower presents this special display from March 25th (Tuesday) to May 6th (Tuesday/Holiday), 2025. Held directly in front of the main entrance on the 1st floor, the event features precisely 333 koinobori, a number deliberately chosen to mirror the 333-meter height of Tokyo Tower itself.

Visitors can witness the multitude of colorful carp streamers fluttering dynamically in the wind, creating a lively spectacle rarely seen in modern Tokyo. Traditionally, koinobori are flown to wish children health and success, symbolizing the carp’s strength in swimming upstream. This event has become a beloved "springtime tradition" at Tokyo Tower, drawing families looking to share this cultural experience and photography enthusiasts eager to capture the striking scene.

The Unique "Sanma Nobori": A Symbol of Friendship and Recovery

Among the 333 carp streamers, keen observers will notice a single, distinct streamer—not a carp, but a "Pacific saury streamer" (sanma nobori) measuring 6 meters in length. This unique addition holds special significance. Since 2011, Tokyo Tower has hoisted this sanma nobori as a gesture of solidarity and ongoing support for the recovery efforts following the Great East Japan Earthquake. It represents the friendly relationship between Tokyo Tower and Ofunato City in Iwate Prefecture, a region known for its Pacific saury catch and significantly impacted by the disaster. Spotting this solitary saury swimming amongst the carp adds another layer of meaning to the display.

This free event provides an excellent opportunity to experience a traditional Japanese custom against the backdrop of a modern landmark, offering memorable sights throughout the day.

Event Details

Here is the essential information for planning your visit:

• Event Location/Nearest Station:
  • Tokyo Tower
  • Accessible from Akabanebashi Station, Onarimon Station, Kamiyacho Station, Hamamatsucho Station, and Daimon Station.
• Address:
  • 〒105-0011 Tokyo, Minato-ku, Shibakoen 4-2-8
  • View Map
• Venue:
  • Tokyo Tower 1st Floor Main Entrance area
• Event Period:
  • March 25, 2025 (Tuesday) – May 6, 2025 (Tuesday/Holiday)
• Time:
  • The streamers can be viewed all day.
• Fee/Cost:
  • Free admission to view the streamers from the ground level.
• Inquiries:
  • Please use the official Inquiry Form: https://www.tokyotower.co.jp/inquiry/contact/
• Official Website:
  • For the most current details, visit: https://www.tokyotower.co.jp/event/333koinobori2025/

Please note that published content is subject to change. It is advisable to check the official Tokyo Tower website for the latest information before your visit.

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What is Koi Nobori?

Koi Nobori, or "carp streamers," are traditional Japanese decorations used to celebrate Children’s Day on May 5th. These streamers, shaped like carp, are made from cloth or paper and are displayed on poles outside homes and in public spaces. They symbolize the hope that children will grow up strong and resilient, akin to the carp known for swimming upstream against strong currents. In Japanese culture, the carp represents perseverance and determination, making it a fitting symbol for a day focused on children’s well-being and happiness. At Tokyo Tower, visitors can see a display of 333 Koi Nobori, offering a striking visual against the city’s iconic skyline.

Tom and Jerry: 85 Years of Laughter

The beloved animated series Tom and Jerry, first introduced to audiences in 1940 by the creative duo William Hanna and Joseph Barbera, has consistently delivered laughter across generations. Its timeless slapstick comedy, centered around the perpetual chase between Tom the cat and Jerry the mouse, continues to entertain children and adults globally. As the series approaches its remarkable 85th anniversary in 2025, this special exhibition celebrates its enduring legacy.

Titled "Tom and Jerry 85th Anniversary Exhibition: When You Laugh, I Laugh Too," the event delves into the casual yet captivating daily lives of the iconic pair, highlighting how their interactions offer "hints for turning everyday life into laughter"—a theme maintained since the series’ inception. Visitors are invited into an interactive experience designed to immerse them in the world of Tom and Jerry. Through unique displays and engaging photo opportunities, the exhibition focuses specifically on the complex relationship between the main characters and their interactions with unique companion characters. Furthermore, a substantial collection of merchandise, featuring over 1,500 items including original exhibition exclusives, will be available for purchase.

※ The image featured at the top serves as the key visual for "Tom and Jerry 85th Anniversary Exhibition: When You Laugh, I Laugh Too."

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Event Schedule

Dates: Friday, April 18, 2025 – Sunday, May 11, 2025

Time: 10:00 – 21:00 daily

• Please note that last entry is permitted one hour before the closing time.
• On the final day, Sunday, May 11, the exhibition will close earlier at 17:00.
• Business hours may be subject to change.
• To manage visitor flow and prevent congestion, entry is strictly by appointment for all dates and times. For detailed information regarding the appointment system, please consult the "Tom and Jerry 85th Anniversary Exhibition: When You Laugh, I Laugh Too" page on the Nagoya PARCO website.

Location

Venue: Nagoya PARCO South Building 9F, PARCO HALL
Address: 3-29-1 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture

Admission Fees

All listed prices include tax.

Advance Tickets:

• General: 1,400 yen
• University/High School Students: 1,000 yen
• Junior High/Elementary School Students: 600 yen

Same-Day Tickets:

• General: 1,600 yen
• University/High School Students: 1,200 yen
• Junior High/Elementary School Students: 800 yen

Important Notes Regarding Admission

• As mentioned, entry requires a timed appointment to alleviate congestion.
• Admission is free for preschool children. However, they must be accompanied by a guardian aged 18 years or older, and the accompanying guardian is required to pay the standard admission fee.
• Individuals presenting a disability certificate are entitled to free admission for one accompanying caregiver per certificate holder. Please be aware that caregivers admitted under this provision are not permitted to purchase merchandise.
• These admission tickets are not eligible for use with various discounts or privileges, including JFR shareholder benefits.
• For comprehensive details on ticketing, appointments, and admission policies, please refer to the "Tom and Jerry 85th Anniversary Exhibition: When You Laugh, I Laugh Too" page on the Nagoya PARCO website.

Contact Information

Organization: Nagoya PARCO (Information Counter)
Telephone: 052-264-8111 (Available 10:00 – 21:00)
Official Event Website: https://art.parco.jp/nagoya/detail/?id=1649

Access

The venue is conveniently accessible via public transport. Take the Subway Meijo Line and alight at "Yabacho" Station.

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TOM AND JERRY and all related characters and elements © & ™ Turner Entertainment Co. (s25)

What is PARCO?

PARCO is a chain of department stores in Japan, established in 1969. It is known for offering a mix of fashion, lifestyle, and entertainment options. Beyond shopping, PARCO locations serve as community spaces, hosting events, exhibitions, and pop-up shops. The Nagoya PARCO, currently featuring the Tom & Jerry 85th Anniversary Exhibition, exemplifies this approach. It draws both locals and tourists with a variety of local and international brands and a focus on art and culture. The exhibition space at PARCO is well-suited for celebrating Tom & Jerry, providing fans with an opportunity to explore the cartoon’s history and legacy.

dancyu Festival 2025: A Culinary Celebration in Shinjuku

Experience signature dishes and exclusive menu items from over 40 esteemed establishments. Admission is free, and no reservations are necessary—simply bring your appetite.

Prepare for a remarkable culinary event as "dancyu," the magazine that has significantly shaped Japan’s food culture since its inception in 1990, presents the "dancyu Festival 2025." Centered around the theme "Food is Entertainment!", this festival promises a vibrant gathering of talent from diverse culinary fields. Attendees can anticipate an impressive lineup featuring experts in French, Italian, Chinese, and Japanese cuisine, alongside specialists in Sushi and Patisserie.

This event offers a unique opportunity to savor special menus crafted on-site by renowned chefs, sample Japanese sake from popular breweries, explore overseas craft beers, and purchase sweets, bread, and seasonings available exclusively at the festival. More than 40 shops are scheduled to participate, each presenting their signature offerings and unique festival-only creations. It is an open invitation to all food enthusiasts seeking exceptional tastes and culinary discoveries.

Featured Menu Highlights

While numerous special dishes await, here is a glimpse into the types of offerings you can expect:

• Ginza Yoshizawa: Serving Japanese Black Wagyu Female Beef prepared as "Teppan Sukiyaki."
• Hitsuji Public: Offering flavorful "Lamb Chops with Homemade Harissa Yogurt Sauce."
• La Casa di Tetsuo Ota: Presenting the "dancyu Special Can-Can," a unique festival item.
• Toraya An Stand: Providing their popular "Anpan" (Red Bean Paste Bun).

Please note that this represents only a small selection of the extensive and varied menu items that will be available throughout the festival.

Event Details

Location & Access:

• Venue: Shinjuku Sumitomo Building Triangle Plaza
• Address: 2-6-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 〒163-0290 (View Map)
• Nearest Station: Nishi-Shinjuku Station

Dates & Times:

• Event Period: Saturday, April 12, 2025 – Sunday, April 13, 2025
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily

Admission:

• Fee: Free

Contact & Information:

• Inquiries: President Inc. "dancyu Festival" Office ([email protected])
• Official Website: Official dancyu Festival Website

Important Notes:

• Weather Policy: The event will proceed rain or shine, including light rain conditions. However, cancellation or changes to operating hours may occur due to unforeseen circumstances, such as equipment failure at the venue or natural disasters.
• Congestion: Entry may be temporarily restricted during peak hours to manage crowd levels.
• Information Accuracy: Published details are subject to change. Visitors are advised to consult the official venue and organizer websites for the most current information before attending.

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What is dancyu?

dancyu is a Japanese food magazine that has been engaging readers since 1990. It focuses on Japanese cuisine, offering insights into both traditional and modern culinary practices. Known for its quality photography and storytelling, dancyu appeals to both amateur food enthusiasts and professional chefs. Each issue covers a range of topics, including regional dishes, seasonal ingredients, interviews with chefs, and reviews of dining trends. By highlighting the craft and dedication in Japanese cooking, dancyu plays a significant role in Japan’s food culture, encouraging readers to explore the country’s diverse flavors.