New Year! Petit Laugh Festival in Morinomiya 2025 (January 10th (Fri) – 13th (Mon/Holiday))

Image of the event

The "Laugh Fes" comedy festival, known for its diverse lineup, ranging from well-established comedians to up-and-coming talents, is set to return in a compact form with the "New Year! Petit Laugh Festival" in 2025. This event will take place at the COOL JAPAN PARK OSAKA TT Hall, following the success of the "Midsummer Laugh Fes."

Comedy enthusiasts will find much to appreciate in the festival’s unique offerings. These include collaborative projects and engaging talk sessions featuring a mix of comedians, including those from the Yoshimoto agency, as well as performers from various other agencies. Such a diverse gathering of talent ensures a unique experience that cannot be found elsewhere.

For those unable to attend in person, most performances will be available for online viewing, allowing a wider audience to partake in the laughter.

Event Details

• Event Period: January 10th (Friday) to January 13th (Monday/Holiday), 2025
• Event Time & Price: The schedule and pricing vary for each performance. Detailed information is available on the official website, which is linked below.
• Venue: COOL JAPAN PARK OSAKA TT Hall, located at 3-6 Osakajo, Chuo-ku, Osaka City.
• Contact: For inquiries, please contact FANY Ticket at 0570-550-100. Their reception hours are from 10:00 to 19:00.
• Website: https://laughfes.jp/

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Understanding Osaka’s Comedy Culture

Osaka is widely recognized as Japan’s comedy hub, with a long-standing tradition that has significantly influenced the country’s humor. Central to this is "manzai," a form of stand-up comedy featuring a duo engaged in quick-witted exchanges, wordplay, and physical humor. This style has evolved from its Edo period origins into a cherished contemporary art form.

Comedians in Osaka are celebrated for their sharp humor and ability to engage audiences with relatable scenarios. The city’s comedy scene thrives in venues like the Namba Grand Kagetsu, where both established and new performers entertain eager audiences. Comedy in Osaka extends beyond entertainment; it permeates local television and street performances, reflecting its integral role in the city’s culture.

Osaka’s residents are known for their friendly demeanor and appreciation for humor, evident in the city’s festivals and events focused on comedy. The Petit Laugh Festival exemplifies this, featuring a variety of acts that highlight the distinctive and lively nature of Osaka’s comedic tradition. Whether you’re familiar with Japanese humor or new to it, experiencing comedy in Osaka provides insight into the city’s cultural essence.

Meijo Line 20th Anniversary Loop Completion Stamp Rally

This event celebrates two milestones: the 20th anniversary of the Meijo Line loop’s completion and the release of the movie "The Lion King: Mufasa." Participants can engage in a stamp rally, collecting stamps from designated stations along Nagoya’s Meijo Line.

Participation Details

To begin, acquire a stamp sheet, which is available at all subway stations. The objective is to collect at least three stamps from the five designated Meijo Line stations. These stations are Sakae, Kamenozue, Yagoto, Nagoya University, and Ozone. Specific stamp locations within these stations are as follows:

• Sakae Station: Outside the East Exit
• Kamenozue Station: Outside the South Exit
• Yagoto Station: Inside the North Exit
• Nagoya University Station: Outside the Ticket Gate
• Ozone Station: Inside the West Exit

Prize Redemption

Once three stamps have been collected, participants can proceed to one of two goal points to redeem their prizes. The first option is the Midland Square Cinema, where prizes can be claimed from December 13th, 2024, to January 30th, 2025, between 8:30 AM and 9:30 PM, aligning with the cinema’s operating hours. It is important to note that prize redemption is not available at Midland Square Cinema 2.

Alternatively, a special booth outside the South Exit of Kamenozue Station will be available on weekends, holidays, and during the New Year’s period from December 30th, 2024, to January 3rd, 2025. This booth will operate from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Please be aware that prize redemption at this location is not available on weekdays.

Regardless of the chosen goal point, the prizes offered are identical.

Prizes

The first 5,000 participants to collect three stamps will receive an original "The Lion King: Mufasa" A5 notebook. ©2024 Disney

Furthermore, a lottery will be held for those who collect all five stamps and complete a questionnaire. Thirty winners will be selected to receive "The Lion King: Mufasa" merchandise. The specific prizes available through this lottery include a blanket, a pen holder, a bracelet, and a wooden keychain featuring Mufasa. Please note that these prizes are not for sale and cannot be chosen by the winners. ©2024 Disney

Tie-in Movie: "The Lion King: Mufasa"

This stamp rally coincides with the release of Disney’s "The Lion King: Mufasa," which is scheduled to premiere on December 20, 2024. This film explores the origin story of King Mufasa, the father who sacrificed his life to protect his son, Simba. The narrative delves into Mufasa’s childhood encounter with Scar, the antagonist responsible for Mufasa’s demise, and how this encounter shaped the orphaned Mufasa’s destiny. The story highlights the bond between Mufasa and Scar, a connection that transcends blood ties, as they embark on a journey to a new land to safeguard their pride. The film promises to reveal the "secret" within their bond that contributed to Mufasa’s rise as a great king. Presented in live-action and accompanied by a moving musical score, "The Lion King: Mufasa" is poised to be a cinematic experience.

For more information about the movie, please visit the "The Lion King: Mufasa" Official Website.

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Event Information

• Dates: December 13, 2024 (Friday) – January 30, 2025 (Thursday)
• Fee: Free
• Contact: Nagoya City Transportation Bureau Passenger Attraction Promotion Division
  • TEL: 052-972-3928
  • FAX: 052-972-3817

What is the Meijo Line?

The Meijo Line is a subway line in Nagoya, Japan, notable for its circular route that links various parts of the city. It is part of the Nagoya Municipal Subway system and provides essential transportation for residents and visitors. The line connects key locations such as Nagoya Castle, several universities, and major commercial areas. Known for its reliable service and frequent trains, the Meijo Line is a practical choice for both daily commutes and sightseeing. As it approaches its 20th anniversary in 2024, the Meijo Line remains an integral part of Nagoya’s transit network, contributing to the city’s connectivity and accessibility.

Hokkaido Nouveau "Winter": A Limited-Time Culinary Event

Indulge in Winter Sweets at Tobu Department Store, Ikebukuro

The Tobu Department Store in Ikebukuro will host "Hokkaido Nouveau: Winter," a new brand showcasing the appeal of seasonal ingredients, with a particular focus on the winter season. This limited-time event, part of the Hokkaido Products Exhibition, will feature a selection of sweets that capture the essence of Hokkaido’s harsh yet beautiful winter landscape. The event will run from January 9th to January 17th, 2025, on the 8th-floor event space.

Hokkaido, known for its pristine snowy landscapes, serves as the inspiration for these delectable treats. "Hokkaido Nouveau: Winter" presents delicate madeleines and soufflés, crafted with Hokkaido milk, that showcase the skills of experienced artisans. The special packaging, designed with a beautiful winter landscape in mind, further enhances the experience.

Featured Products

Yukimushi Soufflé Snow Fromage

This special winter-only "Yukimushi Soufflé" is delivered directly from Hokkaido. Each day, 600 pieces of this unique sweet will be available for purchase at 421 yen per piece. This new sensation sweet features a slice of baked cheesecake sandwiched between fluffy, pure white soufflé dough, resembling a cheeseburger. Artisans will be on-site to finish and serve these treats fresh at the venue. Individually wrapped packages for takeout are also available, requiring refrigeration, at 1,381 yen for a set of four.

Yukimushi Soufflé Milky Snow

Another winter-exclusive, the Yukimushi Soufflé Milky Snow is made with rich Hokkaido milk and cheese. This dessert consists of fluffy white soufflé dough enveloping a rich and creamy cheese filling. It is available in limited quantities, priced at 1,181 yen for a box of four individually wrapped pieces. This product requires refrigeration.

Snow Madeleine

The newly released Snow Madeleine is a crisp madeleine that sandwiches Hokkaido butter cream and cheese cream. These madeleines, shaped like snowballs, are adorably sized to fit in your hand. They are sold at room temperature, individually wrapped and boxed, at 961 yen for a set of four.

Powder Snow Cheesecake

Available exclusively through the online shop, the Powder Snow Cheesecake is a set of three small cheesecakes designed to resemble trees covered in powder snow. The creamy, smooth texture is complemented by haskap jam, which provides a perfect balance of moderate sourness and sweetness. These cheesecakes are sold frozen and boxed, priced at 1,500 yen.

Event Details

• Location: Tobu Department Store Ikebukuro Main Store
• Nearest Station: Ikebukuro Station
• Address: 〒171-8512 Tokyo, Toshima-ku, Nishi-Ikebukuro 1-1-25, MAP
• Venue: Tobu Department Store Ikebukuro 8th floor Event Space
• Event Period: January 9th (Thursday) – January 17th (Friday), 2025
• Time: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Inquiries: Morimoto Customer Service Center, 0120-24-4181 (Monday-Friday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
• Official Website: https://morimoto-hokkaidonouveau.com/location

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

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What is Hokkaido Nouveau?

Hokkaido Nouveau is an event celebrating the culinary heritage of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island. Known for its natural landscapes and agricultural produce, Hokkaido offers a variety of seasonal ingredients. The term "nouveau," meaning "new" in French, reflects a fresh approach to presenting these ingredients. In winter 2025, Tobu Ikebukuro will feature Hokkaido Nouveau, focusing on limited-edition sweets that highlight the island’s winter produce.

Visitors can enjoy confections made from local ingredients like dairy products, fruits, and grains, which thrive in Hokkaido’s environment. These sweets showcase the region’s culinary skills and the artisans’ creativity. Hokkaido Nouveau at Tobu Ikebukuro provides an opportunity to explore the blend of tradition and innovation in Hokkaido’s food culture.

Harry Potter Mahou Dokoro POP-UP STORE in Tokyo Station

A Full Lineup of Official Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts Merchandise

From Thursday, October 10, 2024, until Sunday, March 30, 2025, a temporary Harry Potter-themed store will operate in Tokyo Station’s Ichibangai, a popular shopping destination. Located in the underground B1 level of Tokyo Character Street, the store will offer a comprehensive selection of official merchandise from both the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts franchises. The store’s operating hours will be from 10:00 to 20:30 daily.

New products will be pre-released at the venue to coincide with the opening day. Additionally, an exclusive, not-for-sale "Original Tote Bag" featuring a Hogwarts Express design will be available as a special purchase bonus. This presents a unique opportunity for fans to acquire items that bring the cinematic world into their daily lives.

Purchase Bonuses

Two distinct purchase bonuses will be offered:

Bonus 1

• Contents: One "Sticker" (out of eight possible designs, not for sale)
• Eligibility: Customers who spend 3,300 yen (tax included) or more in a single transaction.
• Period: Starting Thursday, October 10, 2024, and continuing while supplies last.
• Eligible Store: Harry Potter Mahou Dokoro POP-UP STORE in Tokyo Station
• Note: One sticker will be randomly selected and given per transaction.

Bonus 2

• Contents: One "Original Tote Bag" (not for sale)
• Eligibility: Customers who spend 7,700 yen (tax included) or more in a single transaction.
• Period: Starting Thursday, October 10, 2024, and continuing while supplies last.
• Eligible Store: Harry Potter Mahou Dokoro POP-UP STORE in Tokyo Station
• Note: One bag will be given per transaction. Customers spending 7,700 yen or more will receive both one sticker and one tote bag.

Basic Information

• Location/Nearest Station: Tokyo Station Ichibangai, Tokyo Station
• Address: 〒100-0005 Tokyo, Chiyoda-ku, Marunouchi 1-9-1, MAP
• Venue: Tokyo Station Ichibangai Tokyo Character Street B1
• Event Period: 2024/10/10(Thu) – 2025/03/30(Sun)
• Time: 10:00 – 20:30
• Official Website: Warner Bros. Wizarding World

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

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What is Tokyo Station’s significance as a retail destination?

Tokyo Station is a key transportation hub and a notable retail destination for both locals and tourists. Its importance stems from its central location and the variety of shopping experiences it offers. As one of Japan’s busiest stations, it serves as a gateway to the city, making it an attractive spot for retail businesses. The station hosts a network of shopping areas, including Tokyo Station City, which features a range of shops from luxury boutiques to specialty stores.

The station’s underground shopping streets, such as First Avenue Tokyo Station, are popular for their themed zones, including Character Street, where fans can find exclusive merchandise. This makes Tokyo Station an ideal location for pop-up shops, offering access to a high volume of foot traffic and a diverse customer base interested in unique and limited-edition items.

Additionally, Tokyo Station’s architectural features and historical significance enhance its appeal. The restored red brick facade of the Marunouchi Building and the modern GranTokyo North and South Towers offer a blend of old and new, enriching the shopping experience. This mix of convenience, variety, and cultural interest makes Tokyo Station a noteworthy destination for shopping in the heart of Tokyo.

Paella & Tapas Festival 2025 – 10th Anniversary –

Celebrating a Decade of Spanish Flavors: Japan’s Largest Spanish Food Festival Returns to Hibiya Park

The highly anticipated "Paella & Tapas Festival," the largest Spanish food festival in Japan, is set to take place once again in the vibrant setting of Hibiya Park. This year marks the festival’s 10th anniversary, promising an even more spectacular celebration of Spanish cuisine and culture.

The festival will feature the ever-popular "Paella Championship" and "Tapas Championship," where the best paella and tapas in Japan are determined by visitor votes—a heated competition that draws passionate participants and enthusiastic crowds each year. Adding to the excitement, the "Jamón Serrano Championship" will make its debut, showcasing the art of slicing jamón serrano right before the visitors’ eyes. Furthermore, to commemorate this milestone anniversary, the "Valenciana Paella Japan Competition" will be held, featuring paella made with authentic chicken and rabbit meat from the Valencia region. This is an unmissable opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culinary traditions of Spain.

Festival Highlights

• The Grand Prix Showdown: "Paella Championship" and "Tapas Championship"

  The festival will once again host the intense "Paella Championship" and "Tapas Championship," where restaurants will compete for the coveted title of best paella and tapas. A panel of judges, well-versed in Spanish cuisine, will conduct rigorous evaluations, and the top three places in each championship will be determined by a combination of the judges’ scores and visitor votes collected over the three days. The results will be announced on the final day, April 6th (Sunday). Each year, participating restaurants showcase their creativity and culinary skills, devising unique paella and tapas specifically for the event, all vying for victory. The winning restaurants will be awarded the festival’s original "Paella Pan Trophy," crafted using an actual paella pan.

• Debut of the "Jamón Serrano Championship"

  In a first for the festival, the "Jamón Serrano Championship" will be held with the full cooperation of the Japan Jamón Serrano Association. This unique competition will take place inside a super-large kitchen car, where the art of slicing jamón serrano will be on full display. Visitors will have the opportunity to witness the precise slicing techniques and enjoy the freshly cut jamón serrano before the fat melts—a truly sensory experience.

• "Valenciana Paella Japan Competition"

  A special domestic competition will be held, focusing on "Valenciana Paella," which is considered the origin of paella, made with chicken and rabbit meat. The competition will commence at 9:00 am on April 4th (Friday). Competitors will cook their paella over a wood fire, using the same ingredients and equipment, just as it is done in the Valencia region. The judges will taste and score the paellas on the spot. A special set allowing visitors to compare all the entries will be sold exclusively to members of the Japan Paella Association. The competition is primarily for restaurants participating in the Paella Championship. The winning restaurant will receive the championship trophy and a "training trip to Spain" as a supplementary prize from the Japan Paella Association—an incredible opportunity to further their culinary expertise.

• Support for Flood-Affected Areas in Valencia, Spain

  The festival will also be supporting flood-affected areas in Valencia, Spain, demonstrating a commitment to solidarity and community.

• Giant Paella

  A festival tradition, a giant paella, capable of serving up to 250 people, will be cooked in a 1.5m diameter pan. This culinary spectacle will be led by Yasutake Kurihara, owner-chef of El Tragón, who also serves as the secretary-general of the Paella & Tapas Festival Executive Committee and the Japan Paella Association. The sight of such a large paella being cooked is truly impressive, and the "paella art," decorated with paprika and green beans, will also be on display.

• Spanish Stage Performances

  The festival will feature a spectacular Spanish stage, with performances by the Flamenco Association, as well as venenciador performances pouring sherry. Hibiya Park will be transformed into a vibrant Spanish world, offering a complete cultural experience.

Please check the official website for further details.

Basic Information

• Venue: Hibiya Park
• Nearest Stations: Hibiya Station, Uchisaiwaicho Station, Yurakucho Station, Kasumigaseki Station
• Address: 〒100-0012 1-6 Hibiya Park, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo MAP
• Event Period: April 4th (Fri) – April 6th (Sun), 2025
• Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Last day: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
• Fees: Admission is free (Food and drink costs are separate)
• Payment Methods: Cash, Touch payment, Electronic money, QR code payment
• Inquiries: Paella & Tapas Festival Executive Committee Secretariat
  03-6811-1135
  [email protected]
• Official Website: https://www.ptfes.info/
• Rain Information: The event will be held rain or shine, but will be canceled in case of severe weather.

Please note that published content is subject to change. Please check the venue and organizer’s official website for the latest information.

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What is Hibiya Park?

Hibiya Park is a public park in central Tokyo, Japan, established in 1903 as the country’s first Western-style park. Covering over 16 hectares, it features landscaped gardens, ponds, and diverse plant life that changes with the seasons. The park serves as a cultural venue, hosting events, concerts, and festivals that attract both locals and tourists. Its location near the Imperial Palace and districts like Ginza and Marunouchi makes it a convenient spot for a stroll, a picnic, or enjoying cultural activities.

Handmade in Japan Fest Winter (2025)

Japan’s Largest Festival for Creators Returns to Tokyo

The Handmade in Japan Fest Winter (2025) is set to return to Tokyo Big Sight (Tokyo International Exhibition Center) on January 18th and 19th, 2025. This event, the largest of its kind in Japan, will showcase the talents of 3,000 creators from across the country. Attendees can expect a diverse range of offerings, including a market, workshops, live music, and handmade food.

Market

The market will feature a wide array of creative works, showcasing the originality and attention to detail that Japanese artisans are known for. Visitors can browse and purchase fashion items like accessories and bags, interior goods, furniture, tableware, stationery, and art. The sheer variety of items on display ensures that there will be something to pique the interest of every attendee.

Workshops

For those looking to get hands-on, the festival offers approximately 70 types of crafting experiences led by popular creators. These workshops provide a unique opportunity to learn traditional and modern Japanese crafts. Participants can try their hand at making Japanese paper cord lanterns, traditional craft つまみ細工 (tsumami zaiku – decorative hair ornaments), kintsugi (gold repair), moss terrariums, and botanical candles.

Music

The festival will also feature a live music stage with performances by six up-and-coming artists, including Sora Tomonari and Shota Araya. This provides a platform for emerging musicians to showcase their talents to a large audience, adding a vibrant auditory dimension to the event.

Food

Food enthusiasts will be delighted by the offerings from 90 vendors, who will be presenting a wide selection of carefully selected handmade sweets, bread, and other food items from all over Japan. The emphasis is on both the quality of ingredients and the methods of preparation. Additionally, visitors can enjoy specially selected coffee beans and seasonings, further enhancing the culinary experience.

Special Contents

A new addition to the festival this year is a comedy live show, featuring three Yoshimoto comedians, including Danbiramucho and Takion. This performance is scheduled for Sunday, January 19th, at 11:30 AM, and promises to add a humorous touch to the event.

Special Project Area "Wagokoro" (Japanese Spirit)

The "Wagokoro" area is dedicated to celebrating Japanese aesthetics and traditions. Highlights include:

• Exhibition of 100 works expressing "Japanese beauty": Original works created by exhibiting creators specifically for the Handmade in Japan Fest will be displayed, offering a unique visual treat.
• Japanese tea tasting: Visitors can savor the profound flavors of Japanese tea, brewed in a teapot with carefully selected tea leaves from Uji, Kyoto.
• Collaborative pinwheel wall art: A participatory art installation where attendees can contribute to a collective piece. Participation is free.
• Fortunate stamp rally: An engaging activity for visitors of all ages, with free participation.

Basic Information

• Venue: Tokyo Big Sight (Tokyo International Exhibition Center)
• Nearest Stations: Tokyo Big Sight Station / Kokusai-Tenjijo Station
• Address: 〒135-0063 Tokyo, Koto-ku, Ariake 3-11-1, MAP
• Event Period: January 18th (Saturday) – January 19th (Sunday), 2025
• Time: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Fees:
  • Advance tickets: 1-day ticket: 1,300 yen / 2-day ticket: 2,000 yen
  • Same-day tickets: 1-day ticket: 1,500 yen / 2-day ticket: 2,500 yen
  • Prices include tax. Elementary school students and younger enter for free.
• Official Website: HMJ Official Website

Please note that the published content may be subject to change. It is recommended to check the venue’s and organizer’s official websites for the latest information.

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What are traditional Japanese handmade crafts?

Traditional Japanese handmade crafts, or "kogei," reflect the country’s cultural heritage and skilled craftsmanship. These crafts include ceramics, textiles, lacquerware, and paper crafts, each with distinct techniques and historical roots.

Japanese ceramics, known as "yakimono," are valued for their beauty and utility. Styles like Arita, Kutani, and Bizen pottery exhibit regional traits and are used in tea ceremonies and daily life. The process of shaping, glazing, and firing these ceramics shows a respect for nature and tradition.

Textiles, such as silk weaving and dyeing techniques like "kimono" and "yukata," emphasize the elegance of Japanese fashion. Methods like "shibori" (tie-dye) and "kasuri" (ikat weaving) create intricate patterns and textures.

Lacquerware, or "urushi," involves coating objects with lacquer for a glossy, durable finish. This craft produces bowls, trays, and decorative items, with techniques like "maki-e" adding gold or silver designs.

Paper crafts, including "origami" and "washi" (Japanese paper), showcase the creativity in Japanese artistry. Origami turns paper into sculptures, while washi is used in traditional screens and modern stationery.

These crafts are artistic expressions that embody patience, precision, and harmony with nature. At the Handmade in Japan Fest Winter 2025, visitors can explore these crafts, meet artisans, and try creating their own pieces.

Special Exhibition: Sample Return from Asteroids – "Hayabusa," "Hayabusa2," and on to "MMX"

A Unique Opportunity to View Asteroid Samples

The National Museum of Nature and Science in Tokyo will host a special exhibition titled "Sample Return from Asteroids – ‘Hayabusa,’ ‘Hayabusa2,’ and toward ‘MMX’." This exhibition offers a unique opportunity for visitors to witness, for the first time ever, samples from three different asteroids displayed together. These samples were collected by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency’s (JAXA) "Hayabusa" and "Hayabusa2" missions, which retrieved materials from asteroids Itokawa and Ryugu respectively, and NASA’s "OSIRIS-REx" mission, which brought back a sample from asteroid Bennu.

The exhibition will not only showcase these invaluable extraterrestrial materials but also provide insights into the scientific findings derived from their analysis. Visitors can expect to see a variety of related materials, including operation logs from the missions. Additionally, the exhibition will delve into the scientific significance of the upcoming "MMX" (Martian Moons eXploration) mission, which aims to further our understanding of the solar system through sample return.

Exhibition Details

• Location: National Museum of Nature and Science, Japan Gallery, accessible via Ueno Station.
• Address: Japan Gallery 2nd floor, Permanent Exhibition Room, Ueno Park 7-20, Taito-ku, Tokyo, 110-0007. MAP
• Exhibition Period: December 17th, 2024 (Tuesday) to January 13th, 2025 (Monday/Holiday).
  • Closed: December 28th, 2024 (Saturday) to January 1st, 2025 (Wednesday/Holiday), and January 6th, 2025 (Monday).
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Please note that the last admission is 30 minutes before closing time.
• Admission Fees:
  • General/University Students: 630 yen (510 yen for groups of 20 or more).
  • High school students and younger, and seniors aged 65 and older: Free.
  • The exhibition can be accessed with the permanent exhibition admission fee.
• Official Website: https://www.kahaku.go.jp/event/2024/12hayabusaMMX/

Please Note: The information provided here is subject to change. It is recommended to check the official website of the venue or organizer for the most up-to-date details before your visit.

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What is the Hayabusa Space Mission?

The Hayabusa space mission, managed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), focused on studying asteroids to understand the early solar system. Launched in 2003, the original Hayabusa mission targeted the near-Earth asteroid Itokawa. Its main goals were to test new space technologies and collect samples from the asteroid’s surface. Despite technical challenges, such as a malfunctioning sampling mechanism and communication issues, Hayabusa returned to Earth in 2010 with asteroid dust, marking the first successful return of asteroid material for analysis.

Following this, the Hayabusa2 mission launched in 2014 to explore the asteroid Ryugu. This mission aimed to collect more substantial samples and conduct detailed scientific observations. Hayabusa2 used advanced techniques, including deploying small rovers and creating an artificial crater to access subsurface material. In December 2020, the spacecraft returned to Earth with a significant cache of samples, expected to provide insights into the building blocks of planets and the origins of water and organic compounds in the solar system.

Both missions have enhanced our understanding of asteroids and demonstrated the feasibility of sample-return missions, setting the stage for future exploration and study of these ancient celestial bodies.

Bread Thief Cafe with Sunday Brunch in Shimokitazawa

Keiko Shibata’s "Bread Thief" Series Celebrates its 6th Installment with a Themed Cafe Menu

Fans of Keiko Shibata’s popular picture book series, "Bread Thief," will be delighted to learn that a special themed menu is being offered at the Sunday Brunch cafe in Shimokitazawa, Tokyo. This limited-time event celebrates the release of the series’ sixth installment, "Bread Thief and the Apple Gang." The cafe is offering a unique menu inspired by the book, featuring five cafe items and two Christmas cakes, each adorned with carefully hand-drawn art cookies that pay homage to the beloved characters and scenes from the series.

Cafe Menu

All prices include tax

• Apple Gang Stew Rice (With Drink Set: 2,970 yen) – This dish features the main character of the new book, creatively rendered with turmeric rice and tomato powder for the body. The character’s eyes, beak, wings, and feet are made of icing cookies. It’s served with a mushroom cream stew, enriched with bacon and apples.
• Bad Hot Dog (With Drink Set: 2,750 yen) – A renewed version of a previously popular menu item, this "Bad Hot Dog" is topped with meat sauce and cheese, finished with a drizzle of orange mustard mayonnaise sauce. It comes with a side of salad and potatoes.
• Grape Bread Apple-Rich French Toast (With Drink Set: 2,530 yen) – Another returning favorite, this updated version of the "Grape Bread French Toast" features baked apple and raisin French toast, topped with ice cream. The Bread Thief’s entranced expression, depicted on the accompanying cookie, is sure to charm.
• Zukoo Fruit Koppe Bread (With Drink Set: 2,970 yen) – This fruit-filled Koppe bread includes seasonal fruits such as kiwi, apple, and strawberry, along with whipped cream. The "Zukoo" expression of the Bread Thief, as seen in the picture book, is replicated on a cookie served alongside. The dish is accompanied by a salad and potatoes.
• Onigiri Boy’s Creamy Fruit Ramune (Single Item: 1,980 yen) – This visually striking dessert features a cookie shaped like the rolling form of Suttenton Korokorokoro. It’s a Ramune soda combined with a medley of fruits (lemon, orange, kiwi, cherry, strawberry), ice cream, and whipped cream.

Please note that orders are limited to two items per person. Due to the hand-drawn nature of the art cookies, the number of items available each day is limited.

Christmas Cakes

Reservations for the limited-edition Christmas cakes will begin on Monday, November 18th at 11:00 AM. Reservations can only be made online through the Christmas cake reservation page on the official website and cannot be made by phone.

• Bad Gateau Chocolat (5,500 yen, tax included) – This 15cm diameter, 3cm high gateau chocolat is topped with an art cookie of the Bread Thief, sporting a comically "bad" expression. Pickup dates for this cake are December 6th-8th, 13th-15th, and 20th-25th. Please note that the red plate shown in the promotional images is not included.
• Beloved Fruit Short Tart (6,480 yen, tax included) – This shortcake-style tart, measuring 15cm in diameter, is filled with strawberries, kiwi, and yellow peaches. It features a Bread Thief art cookie with the adorable expression of "Beloved French Bread." Pickup dates for this tart are December 20th-25th. The red plate shown in the promotional images is not included.

Quantities for both cakes are limited.

Event Details

• Venue: Sunday Brunch Shimokitazawa
• Nearest Station: Shimokitazawa Station
• Address: 〒155-0031 Tokyo, Setagaya-ku, Kitazawa 2-29-2, Phoenicia Building 2F (MAP)
• Event Period: November 20th, 2024 (Wednesday) – February 17th, 2025 (Monday)
• Hours: 11:00 AM – 7:30 PM
• Official Website: https://www.sundaybrunch.co.jp/shimokitazawa/

Please note that the content published here may be subject to change. It is recommended to check the official website of the venue or organizer for the latest information.

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What is Shimokitazawa?

Shimokitazawa, or "Shimokita," is a neighborhood in Tokyo known for its unique blend of vintage shops, indie boutiques, and cafes. Situated near Shibuya, it offers a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere that attracts artists, musicians, and young trendsetters. The area features narrow streets filled with second-hand clothing stores, record shops, and small theaters, appealing to those interested in distinctive fashion and cultural experiences. Shimokitazawa is also recognized for its vibrant music scene, with various venues hosting performances by local and international artists. This creative and welcoming neighborhood is an ideal setting for events like the Bread Thief Cafe’s Sunday brunch, where visitors can enjoy a mix of food and art.