Imprint of Beauty: An Art Exhibition Weaving Past, Present, and Future

A Century of Art: From Picasso to Banksy

"Imprint of Beauty: An Art Exhibition Weaving Past, Present, and Future" brings together approximately 100 pieces, ranging from masterpieces by luminaries such as Picasso, Rousseau, and Chagall to works by contemporary artists who are currently making waves in the art world. This exhibition, centered around the theme of "time," offers a comprehensive journey through the evolution of artistic expression.

Visitors will encounter a diverse array of over 100 artworks, spanning from 19th-century European paintings, including Impressionism and École de Paris, to modern Western-style and Japanese-style paintings, culminating in the vibrant realm of contemporary art. The exhibition showcases works by both established masters who have indelibly shaped art history and emerging artists who are actively shaping its future. The diverse expressive techniques employed in these works, including oil painting, watercolor painting, drawing, and printmaking, serve as a reflection of the spirit unique to each era.

For those accustomed to experiencing contemporary art at Ginza Tsutaya Books, this exhibition offers a unique opportunity to engage with masterpieces that have left an enduring mark on art history. It invites viewers to reflect on the trajectory of art, as woven by artists from the past, through the present, and into the future.

Featured Artists

The exhibition features works by a distinguished roster of artists, including:

• Henri Rousseau
• Auguste Renoir
• KAWS
• Ryuzaburo Umehara
• Yayoi Kusama
• Morikazu Kumagai
• Tatsuo Takayama
• Toko Shinoda
• Banksy
• Pablo Picasso
• Tsuguharu Foujita
• Bernard Buffet
• Marc Chagall

Exhibition Details

• Location: Ginza Tsutaya Books, accessible via Ginza Station.
• Address: GINZA SIX 6F, 6-10-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061. A map is available for your convenience.
• Venue: Ginza Tsutaya Books GINZA ATRIUM.
• Dates: February 1, 2025 (Saturday) – February 12, 2025 (Wednesday).
• Hours: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily, with a closing time of 6:00 PM on the final day.
• Admission: Free.
• Official Website: For the most up-to-date information, please visit the official website.

Please note that the published content is subject to change. Always consult the official website of the venue or organizer for the latest information.

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What is Ginza Tsutaya Books?

Ginza Tsutaya Books is a bookstore situated in Tokyo’s Ginza district, known for its stylish and contemporary design. It offers a carefully selected range of books, art, and lifestyle products aimed at a discerning audience. As part of the Tsutaya brand, which operates numerous bookstores and rental shops throughout Japan, Ginza Tsutaya Books distinguishes itself with a strong emphasis on art and culture. The store frequently hosts exhibitions, events, and collaborations with artists and designers, providing a space where literature, art, and design intersect. This approach creates an environment that invites visitors to explore and engage with cultural content.

Regional Ice Cream Festival in Winter

Indulge in Japan’s Local Ice Cream at Shibuya PARCO’s "Hobonichi"

The "Winter Local Ice Cream Festival" is being held at "Hobonichi" on the 8th floor of Shibuya PARCO. This unique event offers a delightful opportunity to savor a wide variety of local ice creams from across Japan, even during the colder months. Enjoying cold ice cream in a warm room presents a different kind of charm compared to the summer experience.

The festival showcases a curated selection of ice cream recommended by writer and essayist Minori Kai. Ms. Kai’s choices are characterized not only by their delicious taste but also by their adorable shapes and packaging, reflecting the unique character of each region they represent. The event features over 70 kinds of ice cream, including ice candy, ice cream manjū, ice cream sandwiches, shaved ice, and frozen yogurt, with various flavors available for purchase and on-site consumption.

Scheduled Ice Cream Arrivals

The festival boasts an impressive lineup of ice cream from various prefectures, including:

• Aomori Prefecture: Kalan Kalan Ice, Jumbo Ice (Fujita Ice Shop)
• Akita Prefecture: Baba Hera Ice Baramori Cup (Kodama Reika)
• Fukushima Prefecture: Handmade Ice Cream Manjū (Matsunaga Milk)
• Tochigi Prefecture: Lemon Milk Cup/Soft (Futaba Foods)
• Gunma Prefecture: Ice Cream Manjū (Shirofuji)
• Tokyo: Ring Tarts Sandwich Ice Cream (Izumiya Tokyo)
• Niigata Prefecture: Momotaro (Seihyo)
• Yamanashi Prefecture: Kikyo Shingen Mochi Ice Cream Premium (Kikyo-ya)
• Aichi Prefecture: Chuo Frozen Yogurt (Chuo Dairy)
• Mie Prefecture: Frozen Pudding Soft (Frozen Pudding Soft Co., Ltd.), Ofuku Ice Mac (Ofuku Mochi Honke)
• Hyogo Prefecture: Jersey Ice Cream (Tango Jersey Farm Milk Kobo Sora)
• Wakayama Prefecture: Kuzubā, Ice Cream that Doesn’t Melt (Kashō Ninomiya)
• Kyoto Prefecture: Fruit Ice Bar (Fruit Parlor Cricket)
• Osaka Prefecture: Hokkyoku Ice Candy (Hokkyoku Arctic)
• Tottori Prefecture: Shirobara Milk Bar (Daisen Dairy Agricultural Cooperative Association)
• Hiroshima Prefecture: Tamago Ice (Handmade Ice Cream Karasawa)
• Kochi Prefecture: Oppai Ice Milk (Kubota Foods)
• Fukuoka Prefecture: Kaba Brand Ice Candy (Kabashima Hyōka Honten), School Lunch Mousse (Celia Loir)
• Nagasaki Prefecture: Nagasaki Castella Ice Cream (New York-do)
• Kumamoto Prefecture: BLANCO ICE CREAM (BLANCO)
• Kagoshima Prefecture: Shirokuma (Tenmonkan Mujaki)

Please note that the lineup may be expanded during the exhibition period, and some items may be sold out due to limited quantities. Insulated bags and ice packs are available for purchase, but bringing your own cooler bag is recommended.

"Warm Cafe" and Eat-in Space

A spacious eat-in area within the venue allows visitors to enjoy their purchased ice cream immediately. Additionally, the "Hobonichi" cafe, known for its rotating themes, will be offering a selection of "warm drinks" during the festival. This allows for a pleasant contrast, pairing the cold ice cream with warm coffee or tea.

Exclusive Ice Cream Talk Event

A special one-night-only talk event featuring Minori Kai and singer-songwriter Moka Sato will be held on February 13th at 7:00 PM (doors open at 6:45 PM, scheduled to end at 8:30 PM). Moka Sato, a close friend of Minori Kai, is known for her love of ice cream, even composing a song titled "Ice Cream Mambo." This event promises a lively discussion centered around the theme of ice cream. Tickets for the talk event are priced at 2,000 yen (tax included) and can be purchased in advance.

Ice Cream-Related Merchandise

The festival also offers a selection of ice cream-related goods curated by Minori Kai. These include unique items such as non-melting wooden ice cream by woodworker Ryota Nishimoto, as well as recommended bowls and ice cream spoons. The popular original cooler bag, created to commemorate the publication of "Ice Cream Journey," will also be restocked. Furthermore, Ms. Kai has supervised a series of "Local Ice Cream Miniature Figures," which will be sold in capsule toy machines (only the 3rd and 4th series will be available).

Event Details

• Event Name: Winter Local Ice Cream Festival
• Location: Hobonichi, Shibuya PARCO 8th floor
• Address: 15-1 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-8377 (MAP)
• Nearest Station: Shibuya Station (5-minute walk) (Shibuya PARCO)
• Dates: February 7, 2025 (Friday) – March 9, 2025 (Sunday)
• Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Closes at 5:00 PM on February 13th)
• Admission: Free (Ice cream is sold individually, with eat-in available)
• Official Website: https://www.1101.com/hobonichiyobi/exhibition/6906.html

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 Shibuya PARCO?

Shibuya PARCO is a shopping complex in Shibuya, Tokyo, known for its fashion-forward stores and cultural events. It offers a mix of high-end boutiques and unique concept shops, alongside a variety of dining options that appeal to both local and international visitors. The complex also hosts art exhibitions and live performances, providing a glimpse into contemporary Japanese culture. With its modern design and diverse offerings, Shibuya PARCO remains a notable part of Tokyo’s urban scene.

Kouta Hirano ★ Grand Exhibition

Manga Artist Kouta Hirano’s Exhibition "Kouta Hirano ★ Grand Exhibition" Will Be Held at Sunshine City

Manga artist Kouta Hirano, beloved by enthusiastic readers for his compelling drawing power and unique dialogue, will hold the exhibition "Kouta Hirano ★ Grand Exhibition" at Sunshine City. This original drawing exhibition will be held in a large venue exceeding 1,500 square meters. It will feature valuable original drawings from both "HELLSING" and "DRIFTERS", as well as reproduced famous scenes using models, audio, video, and various other methods for a multifaceted approach. Numerous original exhibition commemorative goods will also be available for purchase. This original drawing exhibition has been wholeheartedly crafted to allow visitors to enjoy the world of his works.

About Kouta Hirano

Kouta Hirano debuted in 1994 with "COYOTE," published in COMIC Papipu (France-Shoin). In 1997, he began the serialization of "HELLSING" in Young King OURs (Shonengahosha), which was subsequently adapted into an anime series in both 2001 and 2006. In 2009, Hirano started the serialization of "DRIFTERS" in the same magazine. "DRIFTERS" received its own anime adaptation in 2016 by NBC Universal Entertainment Japan LLC, and the manga series is currently ongoing.

Event Details

• Venue: Sunshine City World Import Mart Building 4F Exhibition Hall A
• Nearest Stations: Higashi-Ikebukuro Station / Ikebukuro Station
• Address: 〒170-8630 Tokyo, Toshima-ku, Higashi-Ikebukuro 3-1 (MAP)
• Event Period: March 27, 2025 (Thursday) – April 13, 2025 (Sunday)
• Official Website: https://s.mxtv.jp/event/HiranoKohtaExpo/

Published content may be subject to change. Please check the venue and organizer’s official website for the latest information.

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What is Hellsing?

"Hellsing" is a Japanese manga series by Kouta Hirano. It follows the Hellsing Organization, a group tasked with defending England from supernatural threats, mainly vampires. Central to the organization is Alucard, a powerful vampire who aids the Hellsing family.

The series combines horror, action, and drama, delving into themes like power and immortality. It is known for its artwork and character depth, integrating historical and supernatural elements. Alucard, with his formidable abilities and mysterious history, is a notable character in the vampire genre.

"Hellsing" has been adapted into anime series and films, broadening its audience. Its distinctive approach to vampire lore and action has garnered a global fanbase, establishing it as a significant work in manga and anime culture.

Black Thunder Grab Dream: Special Valentine’s Event

Seize the Chocolate: Black Thunder’s "Grab Dream" Event at Tokyu Plaza Harajuku "Harakado"

In celebration of the 30th anniversary of the launch of the popular chocolate confectionery "Black Thunder," Yuraku Confectionery Co., Ltd. is hosting a special Valentine’s Day event titled "Black Thunder Grab Dream." This event, taking place at Tokyu Plaza Harajuku "Harakado" from February 10th to 14th, 2025, is part of the brand’s "30 Raku-Rai" (30 Thunders of Fun) project, which aims to deliver 30 lightning-fast fun projects throughout the year. The event’s theme, "Waku-Waku ga, Zaku-Zaku" (Exciting and Crunchy), perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Black Thunder.

The centerpiece of this event is a dream opportunity for Black Thunder enthusiasts: a chance to grab as many Black Thunder bars as they can from a giant box filled with various types of the beloved treat. This interactive experience is designed to evoke a sense of excitement and joy, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the world of Black Thunder.

Project ①: The Ultimate Black Thunder Grab

A massive box, standing 2.4 meters high and 5.1 meters long, will be the focal point of the event space. Inside, participants will find a treasure trove of 14 different Black Thunder products. This assortment includes not only the classic Black Thunder but also a variety of other flavors and limited editions. Among these are the revived "Choco Nut 3," the popular "Kaki no Tane Thunder" typically found in 100-yen shops, and even regional limited-edition products.

Event Details:

• Dates: February 10th (Monday) – 14th (Friday), 2025
• Time: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Location: Tokyu Plaza Harajuku "Harakado," 2nd floor COVER
• Participation Fee: 40 yen (tax included) per try

Note: Participation is limited to one try per person. While ample quantities of products have been prepared, the event may conclude early if the daily supply is exhausted.

Project ②: Exclusive Valentine’s Day Limited Edition Products

In addition to the grabbing experience, the event will also feature the sale of two special Valentine’s Day limited-edition Black Thunder products. These items, currently available at the Yuraku Confectionery official online shop and directly managed stores, will be offered in limited quantities at the event venue.

Limited Edition Product 1: "Raw Black Thunder Supreme Trio"

This exquisite creation combines the signature crunchy texture of Black Thunder with the smooth, rich flavor of raw chocolate. The "Supreme Trio" refers to the three distinct chocolate elements that make up this treat: coating chocolate, chocolate chips, and raw chocolate. It’s a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, crafted specifically to commemorate Black Thunder’s 30th anniversary.

Limited Edition Product 2: "Red and White Strawberry Thunder"

Celebrating the number 15, which can be read as "ichigo" (strawberry) in Japanese, this special edition offers a delightful strawberry experience. The "Red and White Strawberry Thunder" allows you to compare two distinct strawberry flavors: "Red Strawberry," with its rich strawberry taste, and "White Strawberry," featuring a condensed milk-like strawberry flavor. This product is designed to be both visually appealing and delicious.

Project ③: Win a "Black Thunder Grab Dream BOX" at Home!

For those unable to attend the event in person, there’s still a chance to experience the thrill of the Black Thunder Grab Dream. A special campaign on Black Thunder’s official X (formerly Twitter) account will offer participants the opportunity to win a "Black Thunder Grab Dream BOX." A total of 39 lucky winners will be selected by lottery.

Campaign Details:

• Period: January 30th (Thursday), 2025, 12:00 PM – February 14th (Friday), 2025, 11:59 PM
• Prize: Black Thunder Grab Dream BOX (approximately 22cm cube, made of cardboard) containing a total of 100 Black Thunder bars. The assortment includes:
  • Black Thunder (20 bars)
  • Arigato Thunder (20 bars) – a limited-edition package expressing gratitude for the 30th anniversary (same taste as regular Black Thunder)
  • Black Thunder Blissful Butter (20 bars)
  • Black Thunder Moist Gateau Chocolat (20 bars)
  • A new product scheduled for release in late February (20 bars)

How to Participate:

1. Follow Black Thunder’s official X account: "Black Thunder-san [Official] (@Black_Thunder_)"
2. Repost the relevant campaign post.

Note: Only winners will be contacted via direct message. Prizes are scheduled to be shipped at the end of February 2025. For further details, please refer to the official website.

Event Information

• Venue: Tokyu Plaza Harajuku "Harakado"
• Nearest Stations: Meiji-jingumae <Harajuku> Station, Harajuku Station, Omotesando Station
• Address: 6-31-21 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0001
  MAP
• Event Period: February 10th (Monday) – 14th (Friday), 2025
• Time: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Fees: 40 yen (tax included) per try for the Black Thunder Grab Dream
• Official Website: https://yurakuseika.co.jp/blackthunder-30th-minasamano-okagedesu/valentine2025-yokukokomadeyondane/

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

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What is Black Thunder?

Black Thunder is a well-known Japanese chocolate bar, appreciated for its distinctive taste and texture. Launched in 1994 by the Yuraku Confectionery Company, it combines chocolate, cocoa cookie pieces, and rice puffs. This combination has made it a favorite among many, thanks to its affordability and convenience. Over time, Black Thunder has become a staple in Japan, with various limited-edition flavors and collaborations enhancing its appeal. Its straightforward composition and consistent quality have solidified its place in Japanese confectionery.

Blue Lock × and ST Collaboration Event

Merchandise Featuring Newly Drawn Illustrations of Characters in "and ST" Outfits

A collaboration between the TV anime "Blue Lock" and "and ST (and EST)," the official web store of the Adastria Group, which operates casual fashion specialty stores, will result in the sale of a variety of apparel items. In addition to the apparel, various goods featuring the "Blue Lock × and ST" collaboration illustrations will be sold at a limited-time pop-up shop located within the "A-on STORE Pop-up Shop" space on the 6th floor of the Shinjuku Marui Annex.

Purchase Limits

To ensure fair access to the merchandise, purchase limits will be enforced per transaction. For items sold in random assortments, a limit of 20 items per transaction will be in place. For items sold openly, allowing customers to choose specific designs, the limit will be set at 3 items per transaction. It is important to note that these purchase limits are subject to change.

Advance Lottery for Entry During Peak Days

Due to anticipated high demand, entry to the pop-up shop will be restricted via an advance lottery system from Friday, January 17th to Sunday, January 19th, 2025.

Advance Lottery Schedule:

• Target Dates: January 17th (Fri) – January 19th (Sun), 2025
• Application Period: January 7th (Tue), 2025, 10:00 – January 9th (Thu), 2025, 23:59
• Results Announcement: Sequentially from January 10th (Fri), 2025, 18:00

Application Process:

Interested individuals must apply through the designated "Application Form." A free membership registration with "Livepocket-ticket-" is required to apply. Applications are not processed on a first-come, first-served basis, so applicants are encouraged to submit their entries anytime within the application window. Due to system limitations, late applications cannot be accepted. Cancellations can be made via the "Application Status/History" section on the applicant’s "My Page" before the lottery results are announced. Further details and precautions are available on the application form.

Free Admission and Numbered Tickets (January 17th – 19th)

Detailed information regarding free admission times and the distribution of numbered tickets for the period from January 17th to 19th will be provided following the announcement of the lottery results.

Entry from January 20th Onward

From January 20th onward, visitors can directly access the pop-up shop on the 6th floor of the Shinjuku Marui Annex. It is advised not to line up or gather before the opening time. Depending on the level of congestion, entry restrictions or the distribution of numbered entry tickets may be implemented. Please refer to the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Event Details

• Venue: Shinjuku Marui Annex
• Nearest Stations: Shinjuku Station / Shinjuku-Sanchome Station
• Address: 〒160-0022 Shinjuku 3-1-26, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo (MAP)
• Event Period: January 17th (Fri) – February 2nd (Sun), 2025
• Operating Hours: 11:00 – 20:00 (Last day until 19:00)
• Note: Business hours are subject to change in accordance with the Shinjuku Marui Annex’s schedule. On January 18th (Sat) and 19th (Sun), the operating hours will be from 10:30 to 20:00.
• Official Website: Shinjuku Marui Annex

Please note that the information provided is subject to change. Always consult the venue’s and organizer’s official websites for the latest updates.

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What is Blue Lock?

"Blue Lock" is a Japanese manga and anime series created by Muneyuki Kaneshiro and illustrated by Yusuke Nomura. It debuted in 2018 and has since attracted a global audience of sports and anime fans. The series centers on a training program aimed at developing the world’s best striker for Japan’s national soccer team.

Following Japan’s underwhelming performance at the 2018 World Cup, the Japanese Football Association launches the Blue Lock project. This initiative brings together 300 talented high school strikers from across Japan, placing them in a highly competitive environment. The story follows Yoichi Isagi, one of these athletes, as he faces the challenges of intense competition and personal growth.

"Blue Lock" distinguishes itself in the sports genre by emphasizing individualism and the psychological aspects of competition. It delves into themes such as ego, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence, offering a narrative that appeals to fans of both sports and character-driven stories. With its engaging artwork and storytelling, "Blue Lock" continues to captivate audiences in both manga and anime formats.

Odakyu Department Store Machida: "Chocolate x Chocolate"

A Confluence of Cocoa: 46 Chocolate Brands Converge at Odakyu Department Store Machida

From January 29th to February 14th, 2025, Odakyu Department Store Machida will host "Chocolat x Chocolat," a chocolate extravaganza featuring 46 distinct brands. This event, held on the 5th-floor event space, will showcase a wide array of chocolates, from renowned international chocolatiers, primarily hailing from Belgium and France, to innovative new creations and visually appealing confections. Additionally, the first basement floor’s food event space will offer a curated selection of domestic and international chocolates for a limited time.

Buyer’s Choice: Notable New Chocolate Offerings

This year’s event introduces several exciting new brands and products, handpicked by the store’s chocolate buyer.

• Cagui de Rêve’s "Caramel Cadenas" (8 pieces, 1,836 yen) presents an assortment of lock and padlock-shaped chocolates, inspired by the "Cadenas d’Amour" tradition, where lovers inscribe their names on a padlock, attach it to a bridge, and cast the key into the river below. This collection features four key-shaped and four padlock-shaped chocolates in orange, lime, passion fruit, and coffee flavors.
• Chocolatier Taka’s "10-piece Chocolate Assortment" (10 pieces, 5,562 yen) marks the debut of this Nakameguro-based chocolate specialty store at the event. The assortment offers a diverse range of flavors, including the fruity "Strawberry Champagne" and the rich "Praline Pistachio," presented in a variety of colors and shapes, reminiscent of a jewelry box.
• Nishikamakura Les Choux’s "Shonan Beer Truffles" (4 pieces, 972 yen) provides a unique tasting experience, allowing for a comparison of Shonan Beer flavors. This assortment combines three types of chocolate with local beer, featuring a white truffle with refreshing Pilsner, a bitter truffle with fragrant Schwarz, and a milk truffle with elegant Alt.

French Chocolates: A Celebration of Liqueur and Craftsmanship

The event also highlights the artistry of French chocolatiers, with a particular focus on liqueur-infused sweets.

• Cruisel’s "Cruisel Chardonnay 8" (8 pieces, 4,320 yen) is a luxurious offering from a brand with a four-generation history in the Normandy region of France. These colorful and visually appealing liqueur sweets are generously infused with alcohol.
• Maison Verdié’s "Grape Chocolate Kif-Kif Bottle" (95g, 2,268 yen) features golden raisins marinated in Sauternes, a noble rot wine from Bordeaux, France, meticulously coated in bitter chocolate. The aroma and flavor of this confection evolve over time, offering a unique sensory experience.
• Sébastien Bouillet’s "Biscuit Chocolat Assortment" (7 pieces, 1,836 yen) showcases the work of a renowned chocolatier from Lyon, France. This set includes charming tablet chocolates and bonbons shaped like biscuits.

Belgian Chocolates: New Collections from Established Masters

Belgium, a nation synonymous with chocolate excellence, is well-represented at the event, with several long-established brands unveiling new collections.

• DelReY’s "La Floraison" (5 pieces, 2,916 yen) is a new collection that captures the essence of Belgium’s four seasons through chocolate. Spring is represented by a refreshing jasmine & lemon, summer by subtly fragrant lavender, autumn by salted caramel with a balanced sweetness, and winter by spicy raspberry inspired by mulled wine. This assortment includes four unique chocolates representing each season, along with a heart-shaped chocolate.
• Benoît Nihant’s "Aphrodisiaque" (6 pieces, 3,456 yen) showcases the work of a Belgian cacao artisan with a unique background as a former engineer. These special bonbons, whose name translates to "love potion," are born from the fusion of cacao and spices, and come in three varieties: Pineapple & Cinnamon, Saffron & Vanilla, and Hazelnut Praline & Coriander Seed.
• Van Dender’s "Chocolate Assortment" (8 pieces, 3,780 yen) offers an assortment of chocolates crafted by a purveyor to the Belgian royal family, emphasizing the original flavor and aroma of cacao.

Visually Captivating Confections: Flower Motifs and Book-Shaped Packaging

The event also features a selection of chocolates that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate.

• Kissa Penguin’s "Travel and Diary (Sparkling Canal and Starry Terrace)" (10 pieces, 1,512 yen) is presented by "Kissa Penguin," a coffee shop run by a travel enthusiast. The owner transforms flavors encountered during their travels into chocolates, packaging them in a book-shaped box that narrates these travel stories.
• Parfait au Chocolat’s "Sunny Day Muscat (Muscat and Pear Parfait)" (9 pieces, 1,296 yen) is inspired by a vibrant parfait filled with refreshing muscat and juicy pear. This collection features the fragrant aroma of muscat fruit truffles and the sweet, rich flavor of La France pears.
• BEL AMER’s "Fruit Pops" (6 pieces, 2,808 yen) are adorable lollipop-shaped chocolates inspired by fruit, with a juicy flavor enhanced by fruit jelly inside.
• Le Pépin’s "Parterre de Chocolat" (9 pieces, 1,566 yen) features charming chocolates topped with two types of flowers, presented in a flowerbed-inspired box.

Valentine’s Day Exclusives in the Depachika

The department store’s basement, known as the "Depachika," will also feature exclusive Valentine’s Day chocolates.

• FOUCHER Olympus’ "Star Crystals/Space Mineral Specimens" (9 pieces, 2,700 yen) will be available from February 3rd in the Basement 1st Floor Food Event Space. These chocolates are inspired by planetary crystals, evoking the vastness of space, and are presented in a specimen-style package.
• Garnier’s "Garnier B" (6 pieces, 1,404 yen) will also be available from February 3rd in the Basement 1st Floor Food Event Space. This collection features small, meticulously crafted chocolates set in a tin adorned with Vincent van Gogh’s globally renowned painting, "Sunflowers."
• Kyo Yogashishi Jouvencelle’s "Aya L" (12 pieces, 2,268 yen) will be available from February 3rd in the Basement 1st Floor Food Event Space. This two-tiered box embodies Kyoto culture, featuring cherry blossom-flavored chocolates and chocolates topped with black beans, heralding the arrival of spring.

Event Details

• Location: Odakyu Department Store Machida
• Nearest Station: Machida Station
• Address: 〒194-8550 Tokyo, Machida, Haramachida 6-12-20, MAP
• Venue: Odakyu Department Store Machida, 5th Floor Event Space
• Event Period: January 29th (Wednesday) – February 14th (Friday), 2025
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
• Inquiries: Odakyu Department Store (Navi Dial) 0570-025-888
• Official Website: https://www.odakyu-dept.co.jp/machida/valentine/index.html?srsltid=AfmBOooQGXRUpyFxz1O2GKDf2FeCiKWaAxrN-uB9jfl3c932tNBeoX4j

Please note that the information provided is subject to change. It is recommended to check the official website of the venue or organizer for the most up-to-date details.

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What is Odakyu Department Store?

Odakyu Department Store is a prominent retail outlet in Japan, offering a diverse range of products and attentive customer service. Situated in urban locations like Machida, it provides a convenient shopping experience for those looking for fashion, beauty items, gourmet foods, and home goods. As part of the Odakyu Group, which also includes transportation and hospitality services, the store is well-integrated into the community. Odakyu Department Store blends traditional Japanese hospitality with contemporary retail practices, creating an inviting shopping environment. It also hosts various events and promotions throughout the year, such as the Chocolate x Chocolate event, which features a selection of chocolate brands for Valentine’s Day.

Miharashidai Archaeological Museum Plum Blossom Festival

The second annual Miharashidai Archaeological Museum Plum Blossom Festival will be held on February 22nd and 23rd, 2025, from 10:00 to 16:00 at Kasadera Park, located at 47 Miharashicho, Minami Ward. This event offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the full bloom of plum blossoms in a historically rich setting, alongside a variety of engaging activities and performances. The museum itself, which boasts a collection of historically valuable exhibits, will be open to the public free of charge during the festival.

Event Highlights

The festival features a diverse lineup of events spanning both days. For those seeking a bit of playful fun, inflatable playground equipment will be available for a fee, and a balloon artist will be present to entertain attendees of all ages.

Saturday, February 22nd

The festivities kick off on Saturday with an opening ceremony at 10:15. Following the ceremony, the children of Kasadera Gakudo Hoiku-jo will deliver a performance featuring tin can stilts and torches at 10:40. The day continues with a picture-story show by Sorairoshunsuke at 11:15 and 13:00, a performance by Monaka Samurai at 12:15, a kids’ dance showcase by Studio Echigo at 14:00, and a hula and posture demonstration by AnaPono & Le’a Hula Dance at 15:00.

Sunday, February 23rd

Sunday’s schedule includes a performance by the Domatsuri Team Iryase Nanto at 11:30, a calligraphy performance by Kana Yamauchi at 13:00, a breakin’ dance battle hosted by DANCE STUDIO STAR GATE at 14:00, and a candy toss for children 12 and under at 15:40 – participation in the candy toss is free.

Museum Exploration

A special highlight of the festival is the opportunity to explore the Miharashidai Archaeological Museum with a curator. These guided tours, which include a behind-the-scenes look at the museum’s operations, will be held on both Saturday and Sunday at 11:00 and 14:30. Numbered tickets will be distributed 30 minutes prior to each tour, and participation is free, with a capacity of 30 people per session. As an added bonus, children under 12 will receive a candy gift upon completion of the tour.

Food and Accommodation

A variety of food trucks will be on-site throughout the festival, offering a range of culinary options for purchase. For those planning to stay overnight, a selection of hotels near the event can be found 🛏️ here.

Access and Additional Information

Kasadera Park is easily accessible by public transportation. Visitors can take the Meitetsu Nagoya Main Line to Honkasadera Station (a 10-minute walk east) or the Subway Sakura-dori Line to Tsurusato Station (a 15-minute walk southwest). Alternatively, the park can be reached by city bus, with stops at Kasadera Nishimon (a 7-minute walk east) and Yayoi-cho (a 7-minute walk west). Please note that there is no parking available at the venue, so the use of public transportation is strongly encouraged.

The festival is organized by the Miharashidai Archaeological Museum Plum Blossom Festival Executive Committee, with sponsorship from the Minami Ward Office and the Minami Public Works Office. The Kasugano, Kasadera, and Kasato School District Liaison Councils are providing cooperation, and the event is operated by Eighties Inc. (contact: [email protected]).

Please be aware that the content of the stalls may be subject to change depending on weather conditions and other factors. Additionally, all purchased food items should be consumed promptly, and the actual offerings may differ from the photos due to stocking variations.

What is Miharashidai Archaeological Museum?

The Miharashidai Archaeological Museum, located in Nagoya, Japan, is dedicated to preserving and presenting the region’s archaeological heritage. It offers visitors an opportunity to explore the area’s ancient history through a collection of artifacts such as pottery, tools, and other items discovered at local archaeological sites. These exhibits provide insights into the lives and cultures of the region’s early inhabitants.

Beyond its permanent collection, the museum features temporary exhibitions and educational programs designed to engage the public and enhance understanding of archaeology and history. The museum’s architecture and tranquil setting also attract those interested in both history and the natural beauty of the area.

The Miharashidai Archaeological Museum contributes to the community by promoting cultural heritage and providing a space for learning and reflection. Its annual Plum Blossom Festival is a notable event, drawing visitors with its beautiful blossoms, free museum entry, and various performances and activities that celebrate both historical and contemporary culture.