Kichijoji Excel Hotel Tokyu’s 2025 Black Tea Afternoon Tea: A New Menu of Sweet & Savory Delights

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.

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.

April 15, 2025

Experience the Gambles of Kaiji: The Great Kaiji Exhibition in Osaka (2025)

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

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

🛏️ View hotels near the event

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.

April 14, 2025

Experience Gangjin’s History at the 2025 Jeolla Byeongyeongseong Festival (April 18-20)

Gangjin Jeolla Byeongyeongseong Festival

🗓️ Festival Dates: 2025.04.18 ~ 2025.04.20

The Gangjin Jeolla Byeongyeongseong Festival offers a diverse array of cultural experiences and activities designed to engage visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Its unique appeal stems from its deep connection to Korean history, particularly the strategic military past of the Gangjin region.

The festival celebrates the legacy of the Jeolla Byeongyeong, a crucial military command center. Originally established in Gwangsanhyeon during the late Goryeo Dynasty to counter Japanese pirate invasions more effectively, the command was later relocated to Dogang, marking the beginning of Gangjin’s history. As the headquarters overseeing the military forces of over 50 counties in Jeolla-do, the Jeolla Byeongyeongseong held significant military authority.

Furthermore, the Byeongyeongseong site holds a unique place in international history as the location where Hendrick Hamel, credited with providing the first detailed Western account of Korea, was exiled. Hamel lived and worked in Gangjin Byeongyeong for seven years following his arrival in 1656. This historical connection is commemorated not only through the festival but also at the nearby ‘Hamel Memorial Hall’, making the area an important historical and cultural heritage site related to Hamel’s experiences.

Festival Programs and Activities

The festival features a wide range of scheduled events and attractions:

1. Main Stage Programs:
Experience a variety of performances including:

Cotton Candy Performance
Joseon Magic Show
Spring Mini Concert
Traditional Performing Arts Performance by Artists
Children’s Sing-Along Show (featuring Chaepinityping, Pinkfong and Teunteunssem’s Dance Party)
Gangjin Celadon Auction
Citizens’ Harmony Event
Byeongyeongseong Entrance Ceremony Parade
Opening Ceremony
Opening Celebration Performance, etc.

2. Sub-programs:
Delve deeper into local history and heritage with:

Admiral Ma Cheon-mok Memorial Service
Suinsanseong Exploration

3. Consumer Participation Event:

Pre-registration Event for Visiting the Jeolla Byeongyeongseong Festival (details likely available closer to the event date)

4. Food and Refreshments:
Enjoy local flavors and themed offerings such as:

Byeongyeongseong Tavern
Hamel Village Beer-Coffee
Byeongyeonghyangsi (Chorokmideum), etc.

Visitor Information

📍 Address: 33, Cheongjachon-gil, Daegu-myeon, Gangjin-gun, Jeollanam-do

🛏️ Accommodation near the event

💰 Fee: Free admission

📞 Contact: 061-430-3352

🖥️ Homepage: www.gangjin.go.kr/

What is Byeongyeongseong?

Byeongyeongseong refers to historical military fortresses that were integral to the defense and administration of regions in Korea’s past. Strategically located, these fortresses protected against invasions and helped maintain order within the provinces. Constructed with sturdy stone walls and equipped with various defensive structures, Byeongyeongseong served as centers for military operations and governance. In Gangjin, the remnants of these fortresses provide insight into their architectural design and strategic significance. The Jeolla Byeongyeongseong Festival celebrates this history, offering visitors the chance to explore the legacy of these fortresses through reenactments, exhibitions, and interactive experiences.

April 12, 2025

See 333 Koi Nobori at Tokyo Tower for Children’s Day 2025 (Free!)

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.

🛏️ See hotels near Tokyo

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.

April 12, 2025

Seoul Upcycling Plaza Hosts “My Own Planet, Let’s Play Earth” Festival for Earth Day 2025: Learn, Create, and Celebrate Sustainability

My Own Planet, Let’s Play Earth

🗓️ Dates: 2025.04.18 ~ 2025.05.06

In celebration of the 55th Earth Day in April 2025, the Seoul Upcycling Plaza (SUP) is set to host "My Own Planet, Let’s Play Earth," a festival centered around the theme: "The Most Enjoyable Way to Protect the Earth." This event offers a unique opportunity for visitors to engage directly with environmental consciousness, presenting eco-friendly concepts that can be easily and playfully integrated into daily routines. It aims to foster a closer relationship with our planet through interactive experiences. Notably, a special toy exchange event is scheduled for Children’s Day, May 5th and 6th, available on a first-come, first-served basis for the first 1,000 participants, allowing children to swap old toys for different ones.

1. Toy Donation/Sharing Event with Kokkiri Factory

A central feature of the festival is the collaboration with Kokkiri Factory, facilitating an event where attendees can bring toys they no longer use and exchange them. To streamline this process and assess the condition of items, participants can utilize an interactive AI kiosk designed to determine if the toys are suitable for reuse or donation. Beyond the exchange itself, the festival period will also feature displays of junk art crafted from waste plastic, alongside various hands-on toy workshops, providing engaging activities related to reuse and creativity.

2. My Own Planet by F1_AME

The festival presents "My Own Planet," a compelling media artwork by the emerging creative artist F1_AME. This piece delves into the journey of discovering dreams within an idealized space (represented as a planet), utilizing a character juxtaposed with an inner avatar to explore this theme. Complementing this installation, the event will continuously screen <Nature of Earth>, a video work by Choi Kyu-yong, recognized as one of Korea’s pioneering VR filming artists. This screening is intended to offer a moment for contemplation on the intrinsic value and preciousness of the Earth.

3. Condensing Once More: Rediscovering Value

An exhibition titled "Condensing Once More: Rediscovering Value" will showcase the ingenuity of students from the Department of Metal Craft at Kookmin University. This display features 29 distinct works, each piece meticulously created by breathing new life into discarded boilers sourced from KyungDong Navien. The exhibition serves as a tangible example of how industrial waste can be transformed through artistic vision and skilled craftsmanship, highlighting the potential for rediscovering value in discarded materials.

4. Upcycling Tour Program with a Docent: <Story of Resource Circulation>

For those seeking a deeper understanding of upcycling, the Seoul Upcycling Plaza offers a guided tour program titled <Story of Resource Circulation>. Led by a knowledgeable docent, this tour provides insights into the processes and philosophies behind resource circulation and upcycling as practiced at the Plaza. It represents an informative first step for individuals interested in learning more about contributing to environmental sustainability. Participation requires advance booking through Naver Reservation.

Event Details

📍 Address: 49, Jadongchasijeong-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul (Yongdap-dong)

🛏️ Accommodation near the event

💰 Fee: Free admission

📞 Inquiries: 02-2153-0421

🖥️ Homepage: http://www.seoulup.or.kr/detail.do?NTT%5FID=notice&BBS%5FID=7857

What is the Seoul Upcycling Plaza?

The Seoul Upcycling Plaza is a facility focused on sustainability through upcycling. Situated in Seoul, it acts as a center for education and community involvement, aiming to convert waste into useful products. The Plaza hosts workshops, exhibitions, and events that encourage people to reconsider waste and adopt sustainable practices. By offering resources and ideas, the Seoul Upcycling Plaza supports environmental responsibility and creativity, contributing to the broader effort for a sustainable future.

April 11, 2025

Visit Buyeo-Sedo Cherry Tomato & Rapeseed Flower Festival 2025: Free Activities, Food, and Stunning Views

Buyeo-Sedo Cherry Tomato & Rapeseed Flower Festival

🗓️ Dates: 2025.04.18 ~ 2025.04.20

As the spring season brings warmer days and renewed vibrancy, Buyeo-gun’s Sedo-myeon prepares to host a distinctive festival that celebrates both agricultural bounty and natural beauty. The Buyeo-Sedo Cherry Tomato & Rapeseed Flower Festival offers a unique blend, combining the fresh, appealing taste of locally grown cherry tomatoes with the stunning visual spectacle of bright yellow rapeseed flowers in full bloom. Organized with considerable effort and dedication by the residents of Sedo, this event presents an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in a picturesque natural setting while enjoying a variety of engaging activities and plentiful food options, aiming to create lasting, pleasant memories.

Festival Program Overview

The festival is structured to provide continuous engagement through several program categories:

Main Program: Central activities will revolve around the main stage, featuring scheduled performances and key festival events designed to entertain larger crowds.
Side Program: Complementing the main attractions, a smaller stage will host busking performances, offering a more intimate atmosphere and showcasing various talents.
Consumer Participation Program: Attendees are invited to actively participate through numerous experience-focused booths. Additionally, sales booths will offer local products, likely including the featured cherry tomatoes, alongside a selection of food trucks and local restaurants providing diverse culinary choices.
Other Details: A specific highlight includes the Hanyangsal-i Nakwha Nori, described as Falling Flower Fireworks, scheduled for the evening of Saturday, April 19th.

Event Information

📍 Address: Gaehoe-ri, Sedo-myeon, Buyeo-gun, Chungcheongnam-do

🛏️ Accommodation near the event

💰 Fee: Admission to the festival grounds is free.

📞 Inquiries: For further questions, please contact 041-830-6723.

🖥️ Homepage: More details can often be found on the official event website: sedotomato.com

What is Buyeo-Sedo?

Buyeo-Sedo is a region in South Korea known for its cultural heritage and natural landscapes. Historically, Buyeo served as the capital of the Baekje Kingdom, offering insights into Korea’s past through its preserved sites and artifacts. The area features rolling hills, fields, and the Geum River. Buyeo-Sedo is also noted for its agricultural produce, such as cherry tomatoes and rapeseed flowers, celebrated during an annual festival. This region combines history, culture, and nature, providing a genuine experience of rural Korea.

April 10, 2025

20th KKBOX Music Awards (2025): See SUPER JUNIOR, Tanya Chua, and More in Kaohsiung

20th KKBOX Music Awards

Established in 2005 by KKBOX, the KKBOX Music Awards (KMA) have become a landmark music event in the Chinese-speaking world. The awards are based on the listening behavior of tens of millions of users worldwide, making them a unique reflection of the diversity and influence within the music scene. Unlike awards based on judging panels or curated selections, the KMA are driven entirely by streaming data.

The 20th KKBOX Music Awards will be held at the Kaohsiung Arena. Doors will open at 18:00 on Saturday, April 19th, 2025.

The following artists are scheduled to perform:

AKASAKI
Amazing Show
Della Ding
Chen Hua
Landy Wen
Lollipop F
Mango Jump
MARZ23
Nine One One
OSN Gao Erxuan
Ozone
Patrick Brasca
SUPER JUNIOR-D&E
SUPER JUNIOR-L.S.S.
Tanya Chua
Terence Lam
W0LF(S)

This impressive lineup — representing a broad spectrum of musical styles — promises a dynamic and engaging show for all attendees.

👉 For information regarding ticket acquisition, please refer to the official KMA website: Ticket Information

The Kaohsiung Arena, a premier venue known for hosting large-scale events, is well-equipped to accommodate the anticipated audience.

For those planning to attend from out of town, a variety of accommodations are available in close proximity to the event venue.

🛏️ You can find a selection of hotels through this link: Hotels near the event

April 10, 2025

Visit the 2025 Changnyeong Nakdonggang Rapeseed Flower Festival (April 18-20): Experience Korea’s Largest Rapeseed Field

Changnyeong Nakdonggang Rapeseed Flower Festival

🗓️ Festival Dates: 2025.04.18 ~ 2025.04.20

The Changnyeong Nakdonggang Rapeseed Flower Festival invites visitors to experience the remarkable natural beauty of Changnyeong-gun’s Namji-eup Nakdonggang rapeseed field. Spanning an impressive 110 hectares (approximately 330,000 pyeong), this location represents the largest single area dedicated to rapeseed cultivation in South Korea, presenting a truly picturesque landscape that harmonizes beautifully with the scenic backdrop of the Nakdong River. The fields, often alive with the gentle hum of butterflies and bees, serve as the stage for this annual event.

Operating under the theme "the meeting of nature and people," the festival aims to showcase the stunning visuals of the Nakdonggang rapeseed fields to a national audience. It is conceived as an event where both tourists and local residents can come together and find enjoyment. Since its inception with the first festival held in 2006, it has successfully established itself as a representative cultural celebration for Changnyeong-gun, an area recognized for its rich history and ecological significance.

Attendees can expect a diverse array of attractions and activities designed to entertain visitors of all ages. The schedule includes various local cultural performances, a formal opening ceremony performance, the thrilling Black Eagles Air Show, engaging rapeseed flower orienteering challenges, numerous exhibitions, hands-on experiential events, and promotional activities, ensuring a comprehensive and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Festival Programming Highlights

1. Main Programs:
The core schedule features several prominent events, including:

The Changnyeong Farmer Ajimae Selection Contest
An official Opening Performance to kick off the festivities
The spectacular Black Eagles Air Show
Rapeseed Flower Orienteering, combining navigation with appreciation of the scenery
The Rapeseed Youth Song Festival, showcasing young talent
Entertaining performances by the Dongchun Circus Troupe
A Closing Performance to conclude the event

2. Sub-programs:
Complementing the main events are additional activities that offer cultural insights and community engagement:

A demonstration of the traditional Yeongsan Soemeoridaegi
The Changnyeong Namji Gaebiri Walking Competition
Casual Youth Busking performances
An Art Contest for creative participants

3. Consumer Participation Programs:
Visitors are encouraged to actively participate through various offerings:

A Photo Zone Stamp Tour for exploring scenic spots
A dedicated Children’s Playground
Numerous Experience Booths offering diverse activities
Opportunities for Craft Experiences
A Free Photo Printing service to capture memories

Visitor Information

📍 Address: 177 Namji Riverside Road, Namji-eup, Changnyeong-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do

🛏️ Accommodation near the event

💰 Fee: Admission to the festival grounds and viewing the flowers is Free. (Note: Some specific hands-on activities or booths may involve separate participation fees).

📞 Contact: For inquiries, please call 055-530-1521.

🖥️ Homepage: Visit the official website for more details: www.cng.go.kr

What is rapeseed?

Rapeseed is a yellow flowering plant in the Brassicaceae family, which includes mustard and cabbage. It is mainly cultivated for its seeds, used to produce rapeseed oil, a common vegetable oil globally. The plant grows well in temperate climates and is notable for its bright fields during the blooming season. Rapeseed is valuable in agriculture for crop rotation, enhancing soil health and managing pest cycles. Its flowers provide nectar for bees, supporting local biodiversity. The Changnyeong Nakdonggang Rapeseed Flower Festival in Korea highlights the plant’s beauty and importance, allowing visitors to experience the country’s largest rapeseed field.

April 9, 2025

Incheon Seunggicheon Blooming Spring Festival 2025: Enjoy Concerts, Activities, and Evening Ambiance

Will Seungicheon Bloom This Spring? The 2nd Annual Festival Approaches

🗓️ Dates: 2025.04.18 ~ 2025.04.19

The second iteration of the Seunggicheon Blooming Spring Festival is scheduled for April 18th and 19th, 2025, presenting a nature-focused cultural event designed to provide both healing and leisure opportunities for attendees. Situated along Seunggicheon, a natural stream flowing through the urban landscape of Incheon, the festival leverages the beauty of spring blossoms to create a refreshing atmosphere. Visitors can anticipate a setting where the gentle flow of the stream complements fields of blooming tulips, particularly on the central lawn square which serves as a hub for activities.

This unique urban festival distinguishes itself by integrating the natural environment directly into its cultural programming. Throughout the event, the lawn square will host a variety of performances. Musical offerings include contributions from the Incheon Concert Chamber, alongside the dedicated "Water Love Concert" and various informal busking performances, providing a diverse auditory backdrop to the spring scenery.

Beyond the stage, the festival grounds will feature numerous interactive opportunities. Approximately 45 experience booths are planned, encompassing a wide range of interests. Notably, these include booths associated with the 1st Yeonsu-gu Residents’ Autonomy Expo, offering insights into local community initiatives. Activities tailored for younger visitors, such as children’s crafts and ecological experience programs focused on the local environment, ensure engagement for all age groups.

As daylight fades, the festival transitions to offer a different ambiance. Organizers plan to install night landscape lighting throughout the area, illuminating the stream and flower displays to create a romantic evening setting. Designated photo zones will be available for capturing memories against this picturesque backdrop. Furthermore, around 10 small flea market stalls will operate, allowing visitors to browse and purchase items while enjoying the illuminated surroundings and evening music. This dual nature allows attendees to enjoy leisurely walks and relaxation during the day, followed by an atmospheric experience combining light and sound after dark.

The Seunggicheon Blooming Spring Festival offers a chance to enjoy a spring picnic atmosphere combined with cultural enrichment, all within the city limits.

Event Highlights:

Celebration Performances: Experience the Blooming Spring Theme Concert featuring the Incheon Concert Chamber, alongside busking acts and the dedicated Seunggicheon Water Love Concert.
Experience Booth Operation: Explore 45 diverse booths, including those from the 1st Yeonsu-gu Residents’ Autonomy Expo, children’s craft stations, and ecological learning opportunities.
Things to See and Buy: Enjoy specially installed photo zones and ambient landscape lighting in the evenings, and browse approximately 10 flea market stalls for unique finds.

Visitor Information:

📍 Address: 205 Cheongneung-daero, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon

🛏️ Accommodation near the event

💰 Fee: Free admission

📞 Inquiries: 032-749-7330

What is Seunggicheon?

Seunggicheon is a stream in Incheon, South Korea, appreciated for its natural beauty and ecological significance. It offers a tranquil environment amidst urban surroundings, attracting both residents and tourists. The stream is notable for its seasonal changes, such as cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn leaves, making it a favored destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers. The area features walking paths, picnic spots, and viewing platforms, facilitating outdoor activities and relaxation. During the Blooming Spring Festival, Seunggicheon hosts cultural events, including concerts and art installations, celebrating the arrival of spring.

April 9, 2025

Experience the Busan Lantern Festival 2025: Traditional Culture, Illuminations, and Celebrations (April 18th – May 6th)

Busan Lantern Festival

🗓️ Festival Period: 2025.04.18 ~ 2025.05.06

The Busan Lantern Festival represents a significant continuation of the Lantern Festival tradition (Yeondeunghoe), which holds the distinction of being designated National Important Intangible Cultural Heritage No. 122 within South Korea. This unique cultural practice boasts a history spanning over 1,300 years, originating as a way to celebrate Buddha’s Birthday. Central to the festival is the act of lighting lanterns, a symbolic gesture embodying prayers for harmony and prosperity throughout society. The primary objective of the Busan Lantern Festival is the preservation and advancement of this rich traditional culture, showcased through key events including a Joint Celebration Ceremony, the vibrant Lantern Parade, and extensive Traditional Lantern Exhibitions.

Festival Highlights and Schedule

The festival unfolds across multiple locations and dates, offering a diverse range of activities.

Main Celebration Day: Busan Lantern Festival

Date and Time: Saturday, April 26th, starting at 4:00 PM
Venue: Busan Citizens Park, Dasom Plaza
Content: The day’s events feature the Yeonhui-dan (Performance Troupe) Harmony Square, providing engaging traditional performances. This is followed by the Joint Celebration Ceremony, a formal observance of the festival’s significance. The highlight is the Lantern Parade, a visually impressive procession illuminating the park.

Extended Cultural Experience: Busan Lantern Culture Festival

Date: Friday, April 18th ~ Tuesday, May 6th
Venue: Song Sang-hyeon Square
Content: This extended period offers continuous engagement with lantern culture:
- Opening Lighting Ceremony: Officially commences the festivities on April 18th at 7:00 PM.
- Traditional Lantern Exhibition: A display of intricate and beautiful lanterns, available for viewing throughout the entire period (April 18th ~ May 6th).
- Wish Lantern Hanging Experience: Visitors can participate by hanging their own lanterns inscribed with wishes (April 18th ~ May 6th).
- Traditional Culture Experience Plaza: Offers hands-on activities related to Korean traditions (April 19th ~ 20th).
- Muchal Manbal Offering (Free Food Offering): A communal offering of food, available on April 20th.

Additional Activities

Beyond the main schedule, supplementary events enrich the festival experience.

Traditional Lantern Special Exhibition

Date: Tuesday, April 22nd ~ Monday, April 28th
Venue: Busan Citizens Park, Dasom Gallery
Content: This focused exhibition provides an opportunity for a closer look at the artistry of traditional lantern making.

Visitor SNS Contest

Date: Monday, April 7th ~ Friday, May 16th
Content: Festival attendees are encouraged to share their experiences on social media for a chance to participate in the contest.

Visitor Information

📍 Event Locations: The main festival events are held at Busan Citizens Park (Dasom Plaza & Dasom Gallery) and Song Sang-hyeon Square. The administrative address associated with the organizers is 121-1, Dongseong-ro 112beon-gil, Busanjin-gu, Busan.
💰 Fee: Admission to the festival events is generally free. (Specific experiences may have separate material costs, though none are listed).
📞 Contact: For inquiries, please call 051-867-0501.
🖥️ Homepage: More details can often be found on the official website: Homepage
🛏️ Accommodation near the event

What is Busan known for?

Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, is recognized for its coastal landscapes, urban life, and cultural heritage. Situated between mountains and the sea, Busan combines natural beauty with cityscapes. The city is known for its beaches, such as Haeundae and Gwangalli, popular with both locals and tourists.

Busan is a cultural center, hosting events like the Busan International Film Festival, which attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts globally. The city’s history is evident in its temples, markets, and historic sites, including Beomeosa Temple and Gamcheon Culture Village, known for its colorful, terraced houses.

Busan is also noted for its cuisine, particularly fresh seafood and local dishes. The Jagalchi Fish Market, Korea’s largest seafood market, is essential for experiencing the city’s food scene. From its port to its parks, Busan blends tradition with modernity, offering a compelling destination for travelers.