Plum Blossom Festival ~Edo Flower Garden Adorned with Plum Blossoms~

A Celebration of Edo Culture and Plum Blossoms

Mukojima Hyakkaen Garden, established in the late Edo period, was originally a renowned plum blossom viewing spot, affectionately nicknamed "Shin Ume-yashiki" (New Plum Garden). It boasted approximately 360 plum trees. Today, the garden continues this legacy, showcasing nearly 20 varieties of plum blossoms, including Tsuki-kage, Hatsukari, Shira-kaga, Michi-shirebe, and Kagoshima-beni. During the peak viewing season, the garden hosts a series of events designed to immerse visitors in both the beauty of the blossoms and the rich culture of the Edo period.

The Plum Blossom Festival offers a unique opportunity to experience a refined, early spring moment, surrounded by the delicate fragrance of plum blossoms and the ambiance of Edo.

Festival Events

A variety of events, detailed below, are scheduled throughout the festival, allowing visitors to engage with Edo culture and appreciate the natural beauty of the garden.

Plum Blossom Poetry 📝 (Cancelled in case of inclement weather)

Visitors are invited to compose haiku and waka poems inspired by the plum blossoms, contributing their verses to a haiku notebook.

• Date and Time: Daily during the festival, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
• Location: Arbor next to the wisteria trellis.
• Participation Fee: Free (separate admission fee required).

Edo Street Performance 🎭 (Cancelled in case of rain)

Traditional street performances, including Daikoku-mai and Houka-gei, will be presented by the Asakusa Zatsugei-dan.

• Date and Time: February 8th (Sunday) and February 24th (Monday, Holiday), at 11:40 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM (each performance approximately 30 minutes).
• Location: Plaza in front of the shop.
• Performers: Asakusa Zatsugei-dan.
• Viewing Fee: Free (separate admission fee required).
• Viewing Method: Open viewing on the day.

Suzume Odori (Sparrow Dance) 💃 (Cancelled in case of rain)

The Suzume Odori, a dance originating in Sendai (the birthplace of the garden’s first owner, Sahari Mariu), will be performed. This dance also appears in "Hokusai Manga," created by Katsushika Hokusai, a ukiyo-e artist with connections to Sumida Ward.

• Date and Time: February 9th (Sunday) and February 16th (Sunday), at 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM (each performance approximately 30 minutes).
• Meeting Place: Plaza in front of the shop.
• Performers: Fuku-rai Suzume.
• Viewing Fee: Free (separate admission fee required).
• Viewing Method: Open viewing on the day.

Wild Plant Watching 🌿 (Cancelled in case of rain)

An instructor, Mr. Yoshiki Wakabayashi (Plant Researcher), will lead guided observations of wild plants within the garden, providing insightful commentary.

• Date and Time: February 15th (Saturday), at 11:40 AM and 2:40 PM (each session approximately 60 minutes).
• Instructor: Mr. Yoshiki Wakabayashi (Plant Researcher).
• Capacity: 20 people per session (first-come, first-served).
• Participation Fee: Free (separate admission fee required).
• How to Participate: Reception begins 10 minutes before the start time at the Autumn Seven Herbs corner.

Tea Ceremony 🍵

The Mukojima Hyakkaen Garden Tea Ceremony group will offer tea ceremony demonstrations and serve matcha.

• Date and Time: February 22nd (Saturday) and February 23rd (Sunday, Holiday), 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (each session approximately 30 minutes).
• Location: Onari-zasiki (Reception Room).
• Capacity: 13 people per session (reception on the day).
• Participation Fee: 1,000 yen per seat (separate admission fee required).
• How to Participate: Reception from 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM in front of the Onari-zasiki (ends when capacity is reached).

Garden Stroll ~How to Enjoy Mukojima Hyakkaen Garden~ 🚶 (Cancelled in case of rain)

Staff will lead a guided tour of the garden, highlighting the unique floral displays and scenic views specific to Mukojima Hyakkaen Garden.

• Date and Time: February 23rd (Sunday, Holiday), 1:00 PM (approximately 60 minutes).
• Capacity: 10 people (first-come, first-served).
• Participation Fee: Free (separate admission fee required).
• How to Participate: Reception begins 10 minutes before the start time next to the Service Center.

Basic Information

• Venue / Nearest Station:
  Mukojima Hyakkaen Garden
  Higashi-mukojima Station / Keisei-hikifune Station / Hikifune Station.
• Address:
  〒131-0032
  3-chome, Higashi-mukojima, Sumida-ku, Tokyo
  MAP
• Event Period: February 8th (Saturday) – March 2nd (Sunday), 2025.
• Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM).
• Fees:
  Admission: General – 150 yen; 65 years and older – 70 yen.
  • Elementary school students and younger, and junior high school students living or attending school in Tokyo are admitted free of charge.
• Inquiries:
  Mukojima Hyakkaen Garden Service Center
  03-3611-8705
• Official Website:
  Let’s go to the park! Mukojima Hyakkaen Garden
  Mukojima Hyakkaen Garden Twitter
• Notes:
  Information regarding cancellations due to rain or inclement weather will be announced on the Mukojima Hyakkaen Garden Twitter feed. For inquiries, please contact the Mukojima Hyakkaen Garden Service Center. Published content is subject to change; please refer to the official website for the most up-to-date information.

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What is Mukojima Hyakkaen?

Mukojima Hyakkaen is a historic garden in Tokyo’s Sumida ward, known for its cultural significance and natural beauty. Established in the early 19th century during the Edo period by Sahara Kiku, a wealthy antiques dealer and horticulturist, the garden stands out for its focus on a wide variety of flowering plants, especially those celebrated in Japanese poetry and literature.

The name "Hyakkaen" means "Garden of One Hundred Flowers," highlighting its dedication to seasonal blooms. Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy a diverse array of plants, with plum blossoms being particularly notable in late winter and early spring. The garden’s design, featuring winding paths, stone lanterns, and a pond, reflects the aesthetics of classical Japanese poetry and creates a tranquil atmosphere.

Mukojima Hyakkaen offers insight into the horticultural practices and artistic sensibilities of the Edo period. It provides a peaceful retreat from the city, allowing visitors to appreciate the enduring charm of Japan’s historical gardens.

M League 2024-25 Premium Night

A Special Public Viewing Event at Tokyo Dome City Hall

The "M League 2024-25 Premium Night", a special public viewing event, will be held at Tokyo Dome City Hall. This iteration of M League Premium Night – a special public viewing event that began with the "M League 2019-20" season – offers a multifaceted experience that extends beyond simply observing the matches. Attendees can look forward to a variety of engaging activities, including merchandise sales, giveaways, and a special stage event featuring all 36 M Leaguers. As details regarding the day’s events are finalized, they will be announced on the official M League social media channels.

Basic Information

• Venue: TOKYO DOME CITY HALL

• Nearest Stations: Kasuga Station, Korakuen Station, Suidobashi Station

• Address: 〒112-8575, 1-3-61 Koraku, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo (MAP)

• Date: February 10, 2025 (Monday)

• Time:

  • Doors Open: 15:30
  • Event Starts: 17:00
  • Match Starts: 19:00
  • Scheduled End: Approximately 23:00
  • Merchandise Sales:
    • Pre-sale: 13:30 – 15:00
    • After Doors Open: 15:30 onwards

• Pricing (Tax Included):

  • Arena Special Front Cheering Seats: 16,000 yen (includes balloon and Premium Night limited-edition goods)
  • Arena Cheering Seats: 11,000 yen (includes balloon)
  • Stand Seats: 9,800 yen (includes balloon)

  *All seating is reserved.

• Official Website: M League Official Website

• Official SNS: X (formerly Twitter)

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Please note that the published content is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the official websites of the venue and the organizers.

What is M League?

M League is a professional mahjong league in Japan, designed to bring together top players and teams in a competitive setting. It was established to promote mahjong as a professional sport. The league features a series of matches that are broadcast live, highlighting the strategic aspects of the game. M League’s goals include increasing the popularity of mahjong, attracting new fans, and providing a platform for players to showcase their skills both nationally and internationally. By combining traditional gameplay with elements of modern sports entertainment, M League has gained cultural significance, engaging audiences with its competitions and skilled players.

Newtro with Narumiya Characters ~Has Our Heisei Era Updated and Made a Comeback!?~

A Gathering of Beloved Characters, Including Angel Blue’s Nakamura-kun and Mezzo Piano Junior’s Berry-chan, at Lumine EST Shinjuku

From February 1st to March 2nd, 2025, Lumine EST Shinjuku will host a special event that promises a unique blend of new and retro, centered around Narumiya’s popular characters. This limited-time experience will feature a shop overflowing with Narumiya character goods, a collaboration cafe serving exclusive food menus, and special collaboration items available at various shops throughout Lumine EST Shinjuku. Visitors can also look forward to limited-edition novelty shoppers and the appearance of special sticker photo booths.

The event offers a chance to immerse oneself in a "Newtro" (NEW + RETRO) world, experiencing the charm of Narumiya Characters in a way that’s only possible at Lumine EST Shinjuku.

Event Highlights

The event is packed with a variety of attractions, ensuring there’s something for everyone:

1. Narumiya Characters POP UP SHOP: Discover a treasure trove of limited-edition Narumiya character items.
2. Narumiya Characters Cafe: Indulge in a special menu of limited-edition food items.
3. Collaboration Goods: Explore 26 shops and 2 pop-up shops within the building offering limited-edition and pre-sale Narumiya character collaboration goods.
4. Original Shoppers: Receive a special novelty gift in the form of original shoppers.
5. Sticker Photo Booth: Capture memories with a Lumine EST Shinjuku exclusive Narumiya Characters sticker photo booth.
6. NARUMIYA Characters Vision: Experience Lumine EST Shinjuku’s first AI concierge, where Nakamura-kun and other characters provide personalized campaign recommendations.
7. Building-Wide Decorations: Enjoy special Narumiya character decorations throughout Lumine EST Shinjuku.

The campaign focuses on characters and brands that embody the "NEW + RETRO Newtro" theme. It’s a deep dive into the "Heisei Retro" aesthetic that has captured the imagination of Generation Z, featuring first-time pop-up shops and exclusive panel exhibitions that you will not want to miss.

Participating Shops

A total of 28 shops across various floors of Lumine EST Shinjuku will be participating in the collaboration, offering a wide range of Narumiya character-themed items:

• B2: Freaks Store Men’s Plus, Andy Freaks Store
• B1: Aclent, EMODA, Calnamur, GYDA, Free’s Mart, MERCURYDUO, MOUSSY, MURUA, RESEXXY
• 1F: Papabubble, ROSE BUD
• 2F: Ciaopanic TYPY, jouetie, titty&Co., Heather, merry jenny
• 3F: evelyn, DAZZLIN, PAGEBOY, MILK FED., LilLilly, Tabio
• 4F: RETRO GIRL
• 6F: Lee
• 8F: Marion Crepes

Essential Information

• Venue: Lumine EST Shinjuku
• Nearest Station: Shinjuku Station
• Address: 3-38-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0022 (MAP)
• Event Period: February 1st (Saturday) – March 2nd (Sunday), 2025
• Official Website: https://www.lumine.ne.jp/est/2025%5Fnarumiyacharacters/

Please note that the published content is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, it is always advisable to check the official website of the venue or organizer.

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What is Narumiya Characters?

Narumiya Characters is a brand recognized for its engaging designs in children’s fashion and lifestyle products. Known for high-quality apparel and accessories, the brand appeals to both children and parents with its use of vibrant colors and playful motifs.

Beyond clothing, Narumiya Characters has expanded into themed events, collaborations, and merchandise, featuring its well-loved characters. Each character has a distinct personality and story, making them popular among children and nostalgic for older fans.

The Newtro Event at Lumine EST Shinjuku showcases Narumiya Characters’ ability to combine its classic designs with modern trends, providing an engaging experience for visitors. Whether familiar with the brand or discovering it for the first time, attendees can enjoy a creative and imaginative environment.

Strawberry x Valentine Afternoon Tea at Keio Plaza Hotel

Sky Lounge "Aurora" Offers a February-Exclusive, Strawberry and Chocolate Infused Afternoon Tea, Complete with a Complimentary Glass of Sparkling Wine

For February 2025 only, Keio Plaza Hotel’s Sky Lounge "Aurora" presents a special afternoon tea plan, enhanced by the inclusion of a complimentary glass of sparkling wine, ideal for a celebratory toast.

This limited-time offering showcases the culinary expertise of the chef through a carefully curated selection of savory dishes and sweets. The menu emphasizes the delightful combination of seasonal strawberries and Valentine’s Day chocolate. The experience is further elevated by the provision of free-flowing coffee, allowing for unlimited refills – a feature that undoubtedly enhances gatherings of close friends or adds a special touch to a romantic date. Patrons are invited to spend a refined afternoon in the comfort of a window seat, affording an intimate perspective of Tokyo’s cityscape from the vantage point of the 45th floor.

Key Details

• Location/Nearest Station:
  • Keio Plaza Hotel
  • Tochomae Station (1-minute walk)
  • Shinjuku West Exit Station (5-minute walk)
  • Shinjuku Station (5-minute walk)
• Address: 2-2-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8330 (MAP)
• Venue: Sky Lounge Aurora, located within Keio Plaza Hotel
• Event Period: February 1, 2025 (Saturday) – February 28, 2025 (Friday). Please note that the lounge is closed on Sundays.
• Business Hours on Public Holidays: Hours are subject to the respective day of the week. Open every day starting Sunday, February 2, 2025. Please refer to the official website for detailed information.
• Time: 3-hour seating (last order 30 minutes before the end of the seating)
• Price/Fee: Starting from 6500 yen (tax and service charge included)
• Official Website: Sky Lounge Aurora / Keio Plaza Hotel

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.

Reserve at OZmall

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What is Sky Lounge Aurora?

Sky Lounge Aurora is a venue located on the upper floors of the Keio Plaza Hotel, offering views of the Tokyo skyline. The lounge provides a quiet space away from the city below. Guests can enjoy a range of food and drinks, from cocktails to dining options. The lounge’s design, with large windows and comfortable seating, creates a welcoming atmosphere suitable for both small gatherings and special events. Whether visiting for an evening or an afternoon tea, Sky Lounge Aurora offers a distinct experience above the city.

<h1>Hina Matsuri Celebration at the Hotel: Festive Cuisine Served on Arita Ware and Gorgeous Hina Dolls</h1>

<p>The Keio Plaza Hotel in Shinjuku is hosting its 24th annual "Enjoying Hinamatsuri at the Hotel" event, a celebration of early spring and the traditional Japanese festival of Hinamatsuri, also known as the Doll Festival or Girls’ Day.</p>

<h2>Event Overview: Engaging All Five Senses</h2>

<p>Running from February 1st to March 27th, 2025, the event offers a multi-sensory experience, inviting guests to engage with Hinamatsuri through sight, sound, taste, and touch. The hotel will be transformed with a variety of displays and activities, providing a comprehensive and immersive cultural experience.</p>

<h3>Visual Delights: Exquisite Decorations and Art</h3>

<ul>
<li><strong>Hanging Decorations and Tiered Displays:</strong> The Main Lobby, 2nd floor, and 7th floor Restaurant Corridor of the Main Building will feature hanging decorations crafted from pure silk antique cloth (<em>honken kofu</em>) alongside tiered displays of Mataro dolls.</li>
<li><strong>Special Exhibitions:</strong>
<ul>
<li><strong>Tokyo Hand-painted Yuzen Dyeing (<em>tokyo tegaki yuzen zome</em>):</strong> This traditional craft will be showcased in the Main Building’s 3rd floor Main Lobby and Art Lobby.</li>
<li><strong>Imari Nabeshima Ware (<em>imari nabeshima yaki</em>):</strong> See Emperor and Empress dolls, along with Dog Boxes (<em>inu bako</em>), crafted in this exquisite style of porcelain.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>

<h3>Auditory Experience: Traditional Japanese Music</h3>

<ul>
<li><strong>Japanese Music Lobby Concert:</strong> Enjoy live performances of traditional Japanese music in front of the hanging decorations in the Main Building’s 3rd floor Main Lobby.
<ul>
<li><strong>Dates and Times:</strong> March 14th (Friday) and March 15th (Saturday), with performances at 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM each day.</li>
<li><strong>Performers:</strong>
<ul>
<li>March 14th: Tesshu Fukuhara (Flute) and Ami Sato (Koto).</li>
<li>March 15th: Kaori Ishimoto (Koto) and Hikaru Nakajima (Koto).</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>

<h3>Culinary Journey: Seasonal Cuisine on Arita Ware</h3>

<ul>
<li><strong>Seasonal Cuisine Served on Arita Ware:</strong> For the first time, select restaurants and bars within the hotel will offer special Hinamatsuri-themed menus served on exquisite Arita ware, a renowned style of Japanese porcelain.
<ul>
<li><strong>Period:</strong> February 1st, 2025 (Saturday) – March 31st, 2025 (Monday).</li>
<li><strong>Participating Locations:</strong>
<ul>
<li><strong>Restaurants:</strong> Japanese Cuisine <em>Kagari</em>, Kaiseki <em>Sousyuan</em>, Tempura <em>Shun</em>, All Day Dining <em>Jurin</em>.</li>
<li><strong>Bars:</strong> Japanese Sake Bar <em>Amanogawa</em>, Main Bar <em>Brillant</em>.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>

<h3>Hands-on Activities: Yuzen Dyeing Experiences</h3>

<ul>
<li><strong>(1) Tokyo Hand-painted Yuzen Dyeing Mini Handkerchief Making Experience (Reservation Required):</strong>
<ul>
<li><strong>Date and Time:</strong> February 26th (Wednesday), with the crafting session from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and a meal from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM.</li>
<li><strong>Location:</strong> Crafting will take place in the Banquet Hall, followed by a meal at Japanese Cuisine <em>Kagari</em>.</li>
<li><strong>Participation Fee:</strong> 12,000 yen per person, inclusive of materials, meal, service charge, and tax.</li>
<li><strong>Capacity:</strong> Limited to 20 participants.</li>
<li><strong>Instructor:</strong> Traditional Craftsman, Shiyoshi Takagi.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>(2) Color Insertion Yuzen Dyeing Workshop:</strong>
<ul>
<li><strong>Date and Time:</strong> March 14th (Friday) and March 15th (Saturday) from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.</li>
<li><strong>Location:</strong> Main Building, 3rd floor Art Lobby.</li>
<li><strong>Participation Fee:</strong> 3,000 yen per person, including service charge and tax.</li>
<li><strong>Time Required:</strong> Approximately 30 minutes.</li>
<li><strong>Capacity:</strong> 5 people per session.</li>
<li><strong>Instructor:</strong> Tokyo Yuzen Craftsman Group, Somemoyo.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>(3) Yuzen Shop:</strong>
<ul>
<li><strong>Date and Time:</strong> March 14th (Friday) 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM / March 15th (Saturday) 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM / March 16th (Sunday) 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM.</li>
<li><strong>Location:</strong> Main Building, 3rd floor Art Lobby.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>

<h2>Basic Information</h2>

<ul>
<li><strong>Venue:</strong> <a href="https://www.keioplaza.co.jp/event/hina/">Keio Plaza Hotel</a></li>
<li><strong>Nearest Stations:</strong>
<ul>
<li>Tochomae Station (1-minute walk)</li>
<li>Shinjuku Nishiguchi Station (5-minute walk)</li>
<li>Shinjuku Station (5-minute walk)</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Address:</strong> 〒160-8330, 2-2-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo (<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=35.69016920,139.69437483">MAP</a>)</li>
<li><strong>Event Period:</strong> February 1st, 2025 (Saturday) – March 27th, 2025 (Thursday) – Dates vary depending on the specific event.</li>
</ul>

<p>For detailed information on each event, please refer to the <a href="https://www.keioplaza.co.jp/event/hina/">official website</a>.</p>

<p>Please note that the published content is subject to change. It is recommended to check the official website of the venue or organizer for the most up-to-date information.</p>
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What Sets Tokyo Game Show Apart from Other Gaming Conventions?

The Tokyo Game Show (TGS) distinguishes itself through its focus on both Japanese and international gaming markets, offering a unique cultural and technological experience. Unlike many Western gaming events, TGS provides a distinctly Japanese perspective, highlighting the cultural influences on game design and storytelling. Attendees can explore a wide range of games, from the latest virtual reality innovations to classic retro titles, reflecting Japan’s rich gaming history.

TGS is also known for its focus on mobile gaming and new technologies, areas where Japan has been a leader. The event provides a platform for developers to present new advancements and for attendees to experience upcoming trends in gaming. Additionally, TGS offers opportunities for indie developers to showcase their work alongside major industry players, highlighting innovative and experimental games.

The Tokyo Game Show emphasizes community and fan engagement, with days dedicated to both industry professionals and the general public. This setup allows fans to interact with developers, participate in cosplay events, and enjoy live demonstrations and tournaments. This combination of professional networking and fan interaction makes TGS a dynamic event that captures the essence of gaming culture in Japan and beyond.