Spring Night Special Viewing at Rikugien Garden

Experience the Beauty of Cherry Blossoms After Dark

The "Spring Night Rikugien Garden Special Night Viewing," a much-anticipated light-up event celebrating the cherry blossom season, returns to Rikugien Garden this year. This annual tradition offers a unique opportunity to experience the garden’s serene beauty under the enchanting glow of carefully orchestrated illuminations.

During this special event, Rikugien Garden extends its hours into the evening, providing exclusive access to a landscape usually hidden from public view after sunset. The illuminations showcase several key features of the garden, including the central island, the ruins of Ginkatei, and Suikōno-e, with the magnificent weeping cherry tree taking center stage. This iconic tree, standing approximately 15 meters tall with a 20-meter wide canopy, becomes a breathtaking spectacle as it appears to float ethereally against the night sky.

Beyond the weeping cherry tree, visitors can enjoy projection mapping on the walls of a historic storehouse dating back to the Iwasaki family era, along with thoughtfully placed photo spots designed to enhance the atmosphere of a spring evening.

◆ Event Details

(1) Special Night Viewing

• Date and Time: Every evening during the event period, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
• Location: The entire garden (with some areas restricted).
• Details: A variety of locations will be illuminated, centering on the weeping cherry tree. These include the central island, a prominent scenic viewpoint within Rikugien Garden, as well as Fukiageno-matsu, Takimi-jaya (a tea house), the ruins of Ginkatei, and Suikōno-e.

(2) Storehouse Projection (Cancelled in case of inclement weather)

• Date and Time: Every evening during the event period, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
• Location: Storehouse (exterior wall).
• Details: Projection images, drawing inspiration from waka poetry, will be displayed on the walls of the storehouse, a structure built during the period of ownership by the Iwasaki family, founders of Mitsubishi.

(3) Lights of Words

• Date and Time: Every evening during the event period, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
• Location: Around the garden paths.
• Details: Waka poems, which serve as the origin of the Eighty-Eight Scenic Spots of Rikugien Garden, will be projected onto acrylic light guide panels. This creates the illusion of poems written in light, seemingly suspended in mid-air.

(4) Weeping Cherry Tree at the Ruins of Ginkatei

• Date and Time: Every evening during the event period, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
• Location: Around the ruins of Ginkatei.
• Details: At the ruins of Ginkatei, a location where Tsuruhime, eldest daughter of the fifth shogun Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, is said to have enjoyed viewing cherry blossoms, the weeping cherry tree will be illuminated. A "light curtain" will be created around it, aiming to recreate the lively atmosphere of that historical period.

(5) Projection on Suikōno-e

• Date and Time: Every evening during the event period, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
• Location: Suikōno-e.
• Details: Suikōno-e, a place where water is believed to have flowed in the past, will have the flow of water recreated with light, accompanied by illuminated lotus flowers.

(6) Photo Spots (Cancelled in case of rain or strong wind)

• Date and Time: Every evening during the event period, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
• Location: Various locations within the garden (subject to change depending on circumstances).
• Details: Photogenic spots will be set up at multiple locations throughout the garden, providing opportunities for memorable photos against the backdrop of this elegant setting.

(7) Matcha Tea House

• Details: A selection of matcha and Japanese sweets sets, ideal for a relaxing break during your stroll, will be available for purchase, along with original Rikugien souvenirs.
• Date, time, and location are yet to be determined. Please refer to the official website for updates.

Basic Information

• Venue / Nearest Station: Rikugien, Komagome Station / Sengoku Station.
• Address: 〒113-0021, 6-16-3 Honkomagome, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo (MAP).
• Event Period: Seven consecutive days between March 14th (Friday) and March 30th (Sunday), 2025. The precise dates will be finalized approximately one week prior to the event. Please check the official website for details.
• Fees: Advance purchase of a Special Night Viewing ticket is required. Access to this event is exclusively granted to Special Night Viewing ticket holders.
  • (1) Advance Tickets: Sold online with advance payment. Price: 900 yen (tax included).
  • (2) Same-Day Tickets: Sold at the ticket window and online. Price: 1,100 yen (tax included).
• Inquiries: Rikugien Service Center, 03-3941-2222.
• Official Website: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/rikugien/news/2024/info_r7spring.html
• Official SNS: X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/RikugienGarden
• Information in Case of Rain: Announcements regarding event changes due to inclement weather will be posted on the official Rikugien X (formerly Twitter) account.
• The information presented here is subject to change. For the latest updates, please consult the official website of the venue or organizer.

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What is Rikugien Garden?

Rikugien Garden is a traditional Japanese garden in Tokyo, known for its landscape design and historical roots. Established in the early 18th century during the Edo period, it was commissioned by the fifth shogun, Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, and designed by Yanagisawa Yoshiyasu. The name "Rikugien" means "Garden of the Six Principles of Poetry," inspired by classical Japanese waka poetry.

Covering nearly 87,000 square meters, Rikugien exemplifies a "strolling garden," where visitors can walk along paths that reveal a series of composed scenes. The garden includes a central pond, man-made hills, and diverse plant species that change with the seasons. In spring, cherry blossoms attract many visitors with their pink and white blooms.

Rikugien’s design blends natural and man-made elements, offering a peaceful retreat from the city. Its detailed design and tranquil atmosphere make it a valued cultural and historical site in Tokyo. Whether visited during the day or at night, Rikugien provides insight into traditional Japanese garden design.

Anko Party 2025 @ Isetan Tachikawa

A Celebration of Anko: Classic and Contemporary Confections Converge

The Isetan Tachikawa department store will host the inaugural "Anko Party 2025 @ Isetan Tachikawa," a celebration of the diverse and evolving world of anko (sweet bean paste) sweets. Timed to coincide with the beautiful cherry blossom viewing season, the event begins on Tuesday, March 11th, and promises a delightful array of treats that showcase both traditional preparations and innovative, genre-bending creations.

The event will feature thirteen participating shops, offering a wide range of anko-centric delights. Attendees can expect to find "cherry blossom sweets," specifically designed to evoke the feeling of spring’s arrival, as well as an-butter confections, which incorporate elements of Western pastry. In addition to the featured shops, <Akifuku> will offer their renowned products, and Mitsukoshi Isetan’s Japanese confectionery select shop, "Kayuan," will present a selection of anko sweets perfect for the spring season.

Here’s a glimpse of the delectable offerings:

• <Shichijo Kanshundo> Sakuramochi Yokan: This elegant tea confectionery (1,512 yen for 200g) mirrors the spring scenery of Kyoto, where cherry blossoms dance in the breeze. Each bite offers the delightful texture of sakuramochi, crafted with domyoji rice, sweet red bean paste yokan, and adorned with salted cherry blossom petals. Limited to 28 pieces per day on March 11th and 14th.

• <Camellia's Tea House London> Scones: A British tea maker, renowned for supplying high-class hotels and department stores throughout the UK, presents a selection of scones.

  • Sakura An-Butter (594 yen)
  • An-Butter Plain (540 yen)
  • An-Butter Matcha (594 yen) Limited to 50 pieces per day.

• <Glutens Canelé> Yomogi Anko Shiratama Canelé: This Koganei-based canelé specialty shop offers a rich mugwort-flavored canelé (604 yen), generously filled with anko. Limited to 40 pieces per day.

• <Saiundo> Hana Sakura: From Mitsukoshi Isetan’s "Kayuan," this seasonal yam confectionery (1,080 yen) from Shimane expresses the anticipation of spring. Limited to 30 pieces per day on March 11th and 14th.

• <Jujiiya Bakery> Kita no Megumi: This sweet and chewy ciabatta (540 yen) is baked using 100% "Kita no Kaori" flour from Maeda Farms in Tokachi, Hokkaido. It’s generously filled with sweet red bean paste prepared by <Chiaki An Sohonke> and Yotsuha butter. Limited to 50 pieces per day from March 11th to 14th and on March 17th; 100 pieces per day on March 15th and 16th.

• <Kurumi no Ohagi no Natori Seianjo> Ohagi (Walnut & Coarse Sweet Red Bean Paste): A long-established anko shop, with 130 years of history, presents its specialty walnut ohagi (301 yen) from Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture. The coarsely crushed walnuts and white bean paste perfectly complement the glutinous rice from Shinshu. A coarse sweet red bean paste version is also available.

• <Akifuku> Akafuku Mochi: The well-known Ise specialty, "Akafuku Mochi" (1,300 yen), will be available in limited quantities. "Shiromochi Kuromochi" will also be sold in limited quantities.

• <Taiyaki Ikkyu> Hokkaido Shumari Azuki Tsubuan Taiyaki: Enjoy taiyaki (201 yen) filled with an elegantly sweet tsubuan, made from Hokkaido Shumari Azuki beans simmered with beet sugar and Okhotsk salt.

• <AMACO by Nishiri> Fermented Amazake Matcha Shiratama Parfait: This brand, specializing in bread and sweets utilizing lactic acid fermented amazake from "Kyo Tsukemono Nishiri," offers a delightful parfait (660 yen).

• <Matcha Specialty Brand "Senkyu"> This purveyor of matcha is popular for its rich Uji Matcha Latte, which allows one to enjoy the authentic taste of matcha.

  • Uji Matcha Latte (660 yen)
  • An-Butter Matcha Financier Sandwich (591 yen)
  • Anko Cream Matcha Financier Sandwich (591 yen) Limited to 50 pieces per day.

Beyond the Sweets: A Touch of Whimsy

Adding to the festive atmosphere, the internationally popular "Taiyaki Panda" figure will make an appearance. The "Pan Pan Family" characters from <Planet Bear> will be available in mini size. A special "Pan Pan" corner, created by <Polar Bear Department Store>, will be set up at the venue, providing a photo spot for attendees.

• <Planet Bear> Mini Pan Pan Family Blind Box: These collectible figures (2,200 yen) are randomly assorted, with 11 types in total.

Please note:

• All prices include tax.
• The information provided is subject to change or cancellation without notice.
• For detailed information, please refer to the official website.

Basic Information

• Location/Nearest Station: Isetan Tachikawa Store, Tachikawa-Kita Station
• Address: 〒190-0012, 2-5-1 Akebonocho, Tachikawa City, Tokyo, MAP
• Venue: Isetan Tachikawa Store 7th floor Event Space
• Event Period: March 11th (Tuesday) – March 17th (Monday), 2025
• Time: Open until 6:30 PM (closes at 5:00 PM on the final day)
• Official Website: https://www.mistore.jp/store/tachikawa/event_calendar/anko.html

Published content may be subject to change. For the latest information, please check the venue’s or organizer’s official website.

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What is Anko?

Anko is a traditional Japanese sweet paste made from azuki beans, small red beans with a naturally sweet flavor. The beans are boiled and sweetened with sugar to create a paste that can be either smooth or chunky, depending on preference. Anko is a versatile ingredient in Japanese cuisine, commonly used as a filling in confections such as mochi, dorayaki, and taiyaki. Its sweet taste complements the subtle flavors of rice and other traditional Japanese sweets, making it a popular choice in many desserts. Anko is often associated with comfort and nostalgia, frequently enjoyed during festive occasions and seasonal celebrations like the cherry blossom season.

The Great Kyushu Exhibition at Keio Department Store, Shinjuku Branch

A Culinary Journey Through Kyushu: 80 Vendors Strong!

From Friday, March 7th to Thursday, March 13th, 2025, Keio Department Store in Shinjuku will host the "Grand Kyushu Exhibition" on the 7th floor. This event offers a deep dive into the vibrant culinary landscape of Kyushu, an island renowned for its warm climate, stunning natural beauty, World Heritage sites, rejuvenating hot springs, and, of course, its exceptional food. The exhibition brings together 80 vendors, showcasing the diverse flavors of Kyushu’s seven prefectures, with a special spotlight on Saga Prefecture.

Why Kyushu? For those unfamiliar, Kyushu offers a unique blend of experiences, attracting visitors from across the globe. Each prefecture boasts its own distinct character and culinary specialties, making it a region ripe for exploration. This exhibition provides a convenient opportunity to sample a wide array of these delicacies without having to travel the length of the island.

This Year’s Highlight: Saga Prefecture

Saga Prefecture takes center stage, presenting a selection of its most celebrated culinary offerings. Attendees can indulge in:

• Saga-ya (Eat-in): "Saga Beef Sukiyaki Set" (with vegetables, egg, and rice, per person). Choose between Loin (¥2,530) or Lean (¥1,980) cuts of premium Saga beef. The Loin offers fine marbling and tenderness, while the Lean provides a firmer texture and showcases the beef’s natural flavor.
• Kanesue Kitchen (First Appearance, Demonstration): "Saga Beef Meat Bun" (¥540 each). A collaborative creation with students from Ozora High School Saga Campus, these buns feature Saga beef, Saga Prefecture lotus root, and domestic onions, resulting in a juicy and flavorful snack.
• Arita Terrace: "Arita-yaki Curry Roux <Pompompurin>" (2 pieces, ¥3,500). This features the curry roux from the famous Arita ekiben, "Arita-yaki Curry," presented in a charming Pompompurin-designed soba choko (small bowl).
• Karaage Dondon (First Appearance, In-store Cooking): "Dondon Fried Chicken Bone-in" (¥800 each). This fried chicken, made with Arita Town’s brand chicken "Aritadori," is known for its plump texture and lack of odor, thanks to a diet rich in vegetable protein. The chicken is seasoned with original spices, ensuring a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
• Mizutaya (First Appearance, Demonstration): "Anka Monaka" and "An-Butter Monaka" (¥297 each, Keio Department Store Exclusive). This long-established Japanese confectionery store presents two unique monaka creations for the exhibition. "Anka Monaka" combines sweet bean paste with cream cheese and Takahashi-zuke narazuke (pickled melon), while "An-Butter Monaka" features a delightful combination of sweet bean paste and butter.
• Tora&Shika (First Appearance): "Pudding Topped with Buckwheat Seeds" (¥486 each). A sweets cafe specializing in home-grown buckwheat flour offers this smooth pudding, crafted with carefully selected eggs, fresh cream, and milk. The included roasted buckwheat seeds and Miyakojima salt provide a textural and flavorful contrast.

Beyond Saga: A Kyushu Culinary Panorama

The exhibition extends far beyond Saga Prefecture, offering a comprehensive taste of Kyushu’s diverse culinary scene.

Eat-in Delights:

• Hakata Ramen Shin-Shin (Fukuoka Prefecture, First Appearance): This popular ramen shop, established in 2003, serves its signature ramen with a clean-tasting soup made from domestic pork bones, Saga Prefecture’s "Aritadori" chicken, and Kyushu aromatic vegetables. Options include "Ramen with Soft-boiled Egg" (¥1,020) and "Chashu-men" (¥1,090).
• Tenmonkan Mujaki (Kagoshima Prefecture): The originator of Kagoshima’s famous "Shirokuma" shaved ice, this long-established store presents a Keio Department Store exclusive: "Kagoshima Prefecture Melon Shirokuma" (¥1,320, limited to 50 servings per day). This refreshing treat features fluffy shaved ice topped with homemade milk, syrup, and generous portions of Kagoshima Prefecture melon.
• Uomasa (Fukuoka Prefecture, First Appearance): This popular seafood shop, directly managed by a fish store, offers a "Seafood Morimori Don" (¥2,200) featuring Kyushu-produced yellowtail, mentaiko (spicy cod roe), and a homemade sesame dressing. Also available is their signature "Tai no Aradaki Teishoku" (sea bream simmered in soy sauce set meal) for ¥1,210.

Local Cuisine and Famous Confections:

• Umegae-so (Nagasaki Prefecture, First Appearance, Demonstration): "Omura Sushi" (¥820 per box). This local dish, dating back to the Warring States period, features sweetened vinegared rice layered with seasoned vegetables (carrots, burdock root, dried gourd shavings, shiitake mushrooms, and kamaboko), topped with shredded egg.
• Miyazaki Wagyu Beef Juubunsto (Miyazaki Prefecture, First Appearance, Demonstration): "3 Kinds of Beef Yokubari Bento <Lean Steak, Beef Tongue, Wagyu Kalbi>" (¥2,916). This bento box showcases Miyazaki Prefecture black-haired Wagyu beef in three forms: lean steak, beef tongue, and kalbi marinated in a homemade sauce.
• Minamitake Unagi Kakou (Kagoshima Prefecture, First Appearance, Demonstration): "Unagi Seiro Mushi Bento" (¥2,000). This dish features Kagoshima Prefecture eel, grilled until fragrant, and steamed with rice mixed with glutinous rice, resulting in a chewy rice texture and soft, flavorful eel.
• Yamatoya (Oita Prefecture, In-store Cooking): "Toriten" (¥540 per 100g). Oita Prefecture’s local specialty, Toriten, is chicken seasoned and fried in tempura batter. It’s known for its crispy batter and juicy meat, and is best enjoyed with mustard or ponzu sauce.
• Confectionery Workshop Sorairo (Miyazaki Prefecture, First Appearance): "Ohisama Cheese Manju" (¥180 each). This shop offers an arranged version of Miyazaki Prefecture’s local sweet, "Cheese Manju," using Kyushu flour and butter, filled with rich cream cheese, and baked until crisp.
• Fukudaya Kumamoto Waguri-an (Kumamoto Prefecture, First Appearance): "Kurizuki" (6 pieces, ¥1,360) and "Kurisenri" (5 pieces, ¥729). This Japanese confectionery store, founded in 1948, specializes in sweets using Kumamoto Prefecture waguri (Japanese chestnut). "Kurizuki" is made solely with chestnuts, sugar, and starch syrup, while "Kurisenri" is a moistly baked Mont Blanc confection.

Live Demonstrations: Popular Sweets and Gourmet Foods

Witness the creation of these delectable treats:

• Kasanoya (Fukuoka Prefecture): "Umegae Mochi" (5 pieces, ¥750) and "Yomogi Umegae Mochi" (5 pieces, ¥750, limited to one per person, 50 servings per day).
• Shimokubo Isao Seicha (Kagoshima Prefecture): "Matcha Soft Cream" (¥500 each).
• Ice & Soft Cream Development Workshop C&G (Miyazaki Prefecture): "Miyazaki Prefecture Mango Mini Parfait" (¥1,100, limited to 50 servings per day).
• Fukumimiya (Nagasaki Prefecture): "Kakuni Shippoku Manju" (¥346 each).
• Bantenro (Oita Prefecture): "Hita Yakisoba" (¥864 per serving).
• Gyoza no Mabashi (Miyazaki Prefecture): "Mabashi’s Mochi Mochi Gyoza" (10 pieces, ¥972).

Important Notes:

• Last order for eat-in is one hour before closing each day.
• All images are for illustrative purposes only.

Basic Information:

• Location/Nearest Station: Keio Department Store Shinjuku, Shinjuku Station (1-minute walk)
• Address: 〒160-8321, 1-1-4 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo (MAP)
• Venue: Keio Department Store Shinjuku 7th Floor Event Space
• Date: March 7th (Fri) – March 13th (Thu), 2025
• Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Closes at 5:00 PM on the last day)
• Other URL: Keio Department Store Shinjuku

Published content is subject to change. Please check the venue’s or organizer’s official website for the latest information.

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What is Saga Prefecture?

Saga Prefecture is located on the island of Kyushu in Japan. It is known for its history, natural landscapes, and cultural heritage. Positioned between the Sea of Japan and the Ariake Sea, Saga features a variety of landscapes, including coastlines and hills. The region is particularly noted for its traditional crafts, especially ceramics like Arita and Imari porcelain, which have been valued for centuries.

The prefecture is also recognized for its agricultural products and seafood. Saga beef, a type of wagyu, is known for its marbling and flavor. The area also produces fresh fruits, such as Saga strawberries and mandarins, which are popular across Japan.

Saga hosts several festivals and historical sites, including shrines and castles that reflect Japan’s history. The Saga International Balloon Fiesta, a major hot air balloon festival in Asia, draws visitors globally.

In summary, Saga Prefecture offers a blend of tradition and natural beauty, providing a genuine experience of Japan.

Super Cherry Blossoms 2025

This year, the cherry blossom scenery woven by cherry blossoms and goldfish comes to Ginza again! 🌸 Experience an early flower viewing in a fantastic space filled with cherry blossoms.

The Art Aquarium Museum GINZA proudly presents "Mega Sakura 2025," a limited-time spring exhibition that allows visitors to experience the full splendor of cherry blossoms in an innovative and captivating way. Building upon the success of previous exhibitions, "Mega Sakura 2025" promises an even more immersive and powerful display of Japan’s iconic spring symbol, interwoven with the graceful beauty of goldfish.

🌸 Goldfish dance in a "Mega Sakura" space!

The exhibition showcases a variety of artworks and spatial presentations, all centered around the theme of cherry blossoms. The interplay of brilliant lights and carefully curated fragrances, both cherry blossom-themed, enhances the sensory experience. Each aquarium is enveloped in the delicate scent of cherry blossoms, creating a unique and memorable springtime ambiance that can only be experienced at the Art Aquarium Museum GINZA. This harmonious blend of goldfish and cherry blossoms has proven exceptionally popular, attracting both domestic and international visitors.

Basic Information

• Venue / Nearest Station: Art Aquarium Museum GINZA, Ginza Station
• Address: 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo-ku, Ginza 4-6-16 Ginza Mitsukoshi New Building 8F (MAP)
• Event Period: 2025/02/28 (Fri) – 2025/04/23 (Wed)
• Time: 10:00 – 19:00
• Fees:
  • Adults: Web Ticket 2,500 yen; Same-day Ticket 2,700 yen (Same-day tickets are sold on the 9th floor of the Ginza Mitsukoshi New Building).
  • Children: Up to two elementary school-aged children are admitted free with one adult; additional charges apply from the third child.
• Inquiries: https://artaquarium.jp/form/
• Official Website: https://artaquarium.jp/

Please note that the published content is subject to change. For the latest information, please refer to the venue’s and organizer’s official website.

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What is Art Aquarium Museum?

The Art Aquarium Museum in Ginza, Tokyo, is an art installation that merges traditional Japanese culture with contemporary design. It features live goldfish in intricately designed aquariums, enhanced by LED lighting, projection mapping, and music to create a visual and sensory experience.

The museum was conceived by artist Hidetomo Kimura, who combines Japanese aesthetics with modern technology to highlight the beauty of goldfish, a symbol of prosperity in Japan. Each exhibit showcases the movements and colors of the goldfish against backdrops inspired by the seasons and traditional motifs.

Visitors to the Art Aquarium Museum can explore the intersection of art and nature, gaining insight into the cultural significance of goldfish in Japanese history and art.

Tokyo Station Jalan Fair 2025

Sweets and Gourmet Foods Featuring "Nyalan"

The "Tokyo Station Jalan Fair," a recurring event featuring sweets and gourmet foods based on the official Jalan character "Nyalan," has been confirmed for 2025. This marks the seventh installment of the fair, which began in 2019. This year’s event adds six new items, all of which serve as an adorable celebration of Cat Day. These "Nyalan" items, equally perfect as souvenirs or personal treats, are sure to brighten your spring outings.

"Nyalan" Original Goods Giveaway

In commemoration of the 35th anniversary of Jalan‘s publication, and in celebration of Cat Day, a limited quantity of original "Nyalan" goods will be distributed. Customers who purchase fair items at participating shops during the event period will receive one original sticker, designed to resemble a film strip filled with "Nyalan’s" travel memories.

[Cat Day Limited] "Nyalan" Original Acrylic Stand Part 2 (6 Types Total)

Following the popularity of the acrylic stands offered in 2024, "Nyalan" will appear in new poses in 2025. These stands have been upgraded with a backing board designed to resemble a Jalan magazine. One stand will be given to customers who purchase 3,000 yen or more (including tax) of fair items at participating shops.

Distribution Date: Limited to Saturday, February 22, 2025

• Please note that the distribution of original goods is random.
• Distribution of both stickers and acrylic stands will end as soon as the planned quantity runs out.

Basic Information

• Venue/Nearest Station: GranSta Tokyo, Tokyo Station
• Address: 〒100-0005, 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Inside JR East Tokyo Station B1F/1F, MAP
• Event Period: February 15, 2025 (Saturday) – March 24, 2025 (Monday)
• Official Website: GranSta Tokyo Official Website
• Notes:
  * All prices listed include tax.
  * Product images are for illustrative purposes only.
  * The information provided is current as of January 23, 2025. Please check the website or other sources for the latest information before visiting.
  * Due to the novel coronavirus or other circumstances, the published content may be subject to change. Please contact the venue or organizer, or check the official website, for the latest information.

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What is Nyalan?

Nyalan is a cat character created by Jalan, a travel agency in Japan, to promote travel and tourism. Known for his adventurous nature, Nyalan is often shown exploring new places with his travel bag. He has become a popular mascot, symbolizing the enjoyment of travel and discovery. Nyalan’s appearances at events, such as the Tokyo Station Jalan Fair 2025, offer fans the chance to engage with themed merchandise and activities, particularly on Cat Day. This character combines the appeal of travel with the affection for cats, encouraging people to explore new destinations.

The Hints 2025: 10 Perspectives on the Present and Future

A Collection of Modern Art Masterpieces in the Heart of the Business District!

Located on the first floor of the Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation East Building in Otemachi, Tokyo, The Hints 2025 presents a curated collection of modern art, with the explicit aim of supporting Japanese artists and disseminating the multifaceted appeal of art among the business community. Building upon the success of its inaugural exhibition in December 2023, this second iteration has been realized in direct response to popular demand, promising an even broader audience the chance to experience what the organizers call "the new hints that art brings."

Beyond the exhibition of large-scale works, the event incorporates a crowdfunding initiative. This allows visitors to support the featured artists through the purchase of original merchandise, participation in art experiences, and the commissioning of bespoke works. This approach provides a unique opportunity to discover novel intersections between art and business, all while directly contributing to the careers of Japanese artists.

The exhibition features a diverse range of artistic perspectives, with the following artists participating (listed in alphabetical order):

• Ataru Isomura
• Mari Katayama
• Takuro Kuwata
• Aki Kondo
• Ryo Shinagawa
• Noritaka Tatehana
• Erika Naka
• Yuki Nara
• Saki Maeda
• Nanae Mitobe

Event Details:

• Location: Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation East Building Earth Garden
• Nearest Station: Otemachi Station
• Address: 1-3-2 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo (MAP)
• Venue: Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation East Building 1F Earth Garden
• Dates: February 5th (Wednesday) – February 23rd (Sunday/Holiday), 2025
• Time: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Weekdays), 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Weekends/Holidays)
• Admission: Free
• Organizer: THE ART Co., Ltd.
• Official Website: https://thehints.jp/2025/

Disclaimer: The information presented here is subject to change. For the most up-to-date details, please refer to the official website of the venue and the organizer.

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Characteristics of Modern Art in Japan

Modern art in Japan combines traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary global influences. Artists integrate elements like minimalism, nature, and spatial awareness, which are rooted in Japanese culture, while also engaging with modern technology and international art movements.

This art form often bridges the past and present, reimagining ancient techniques such as calligraphy and ink painting through modern mediums. Themes of identity, technology, and the environment are common, reflecting Japan’s societal changes and technological progress.

Post-war avant-garde movements like Gutai and Mono-ha have left a lasting impact, promoting experimentation and challenging traditional boundaries. This has resulted in a diverse art scene where installations, digital art, and interactive experiences coexist with traditional paintings and sculptures.

Modern art in Japan respects tradition while embracing innovation, creating a unique and evolving artistic landscape that appeals to both local and international audiences.

Movie "Tabekko Doubutsu THE MOVIE" × Ikebukuro PARCO SPECIAL CAMPAIGN "LOVE&SWEETS"

A Multifaceted Celebration of the First-Ever "Tabekko Doubutsu" Film

In commemoration of the cinematic debut of the beloved "Tabekko Doubutsu" sweets, Ikebukuro PARCO is hosting a comprehensive campaign, replete with a variety of engaging events. This special collaboration, titled "LOVE&SWEETS," promises an immersive experience for fans of all ages, featuring a POPUP SHOP brimming with original merchandise, exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities, captivating photo spots, and more.

Event Highlights:

[1] Original Goods POPUP SHOP:

Enthusiasts will have the opportunity to acquire exclusive merchandise at the dedicated POPUP SHOP.

• Period: February 8th (Saturday) – February 28th (Friday), 2025. Please note that the shop will be closed on February 12th (Wednesday).
• Location: Main Building 5F Event Space.

[2] Meet-and-Greet & Photo Session:

Fans can look forward to meeting their favorite characters and capturing memorable moments.

• Dates: February 15th (Saturday) and February 22nd (Saturday), 2025.
• Times: Three sessions will be held each day:
  • ① 2:00 PM
  • ② 3:30 PM
  • ③ 5:00 PM
  • Each session will accommodate 15 groups.
• Location: Main Building 8F, Special Venue in front of the elevators.

[3] Photo Spot Installation:

Dedicated photo spots will provide the perfect backdrop for capturing and sharing the "Tabekko Doubutsu" experience.

• Period: February 8th (Saturday) – February 28th (Friday), 2025 (Closed on February 12th, Wednesday).
• Location: Main Building 8F, Special Venue in front of the elevators.

[4] Special Gift Campaign:

Visitors can participate in a special campaign that includes purchase novelties and an SNS component.

• Period: February 8th (Saturday) – February 28th (Friday), 2025 (Closed on February 12th, Wednesday).
• Redemption Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily.
• Redemption Location: Inside the Main Building 5F "Tabekko Doubutsu THE MOVIE POPUP SHOP."
• Redemption Method: Present your Ikebukuro PARCO purchase receipt from the eligible period at the redemption venue.

For detailed information regarding each event, please refer to the official website.

About the Movie: "Tabekko Doubutsu THE MOVIE"

The nationally adored "Tabekko Doubutsu" sweets are making their grand entrance onto the silver screen! The film presents a seemingly impossible mission: the Tabekko Doubutsu, whose primary attribute is their undeniable cuteness, must confront an enemy with ambitions of world domination. Despite their lack of weaponry, strategic planning, or even courage, these endearing characters find themselves entrusted with the fate of the world. This spring, prepare for a heartwarming and humorous entertainment experience that promises to bring a smile to audiences across Japan.

Basic Information:

• Venue/Nearest Station:
  Ikebukuro Parco, a mere one-minute walk from Ikebukuro Station.
• Address:
  〒171-8557
  1-28-2 Minami-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
  MAP
• Event Period:
  February 8th (Saturday) – February 28th (Friday), 2025.
  Please note that the entire Ikebukuro PARCO building will be closed on February 12th (Wednesday), 2025.
• Official Website:
  https://ikebukuro.parco.jp/event/detail/?id=31871

Please be aware that the published content is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, kindly consult the official website of the venue or organizer.

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What is Tabekko Doubutsu?

Tabekko Doubutsu is a Japanese snack brand recognized for its animal-shaped biscuits. These biscuits have been popular in Japanese households for many years, appealing to both children and adults with their engaging designs and enjoyable taste. Each biscuit is shaped like an animal and often includes the animal’s name in English, serving as both a snack and a learning tool for young children. The straightforward appeal and nostalgic value of Tabekko Doubutsu have established it as a cultural staple, leading to various collaborations and merchandise. Recently, the brand expanded its presence with "Tabekko Doubutsu THE MOVIE," offering fans new ways to engage with the brand through themed merchandise and events.