Strawberry Fortune Afternoon Tea Buffet at the Grand Hyatt Tokyo

Indulge in an All-You-Can-Eat Selection of Sweets and Savories Featuring Premium Japanese Strawberries

The Grand Hyatt Tokyo, a dynamic luxury hotel towering over the bustling city, is offering a unique "Strawberry Fortune Afternoon Tea Buffet" at its all-day dining establishment, the "French Kitchen."

This buffet-style afternoon tea is a celebration of domestic brand strawberries, such as "Nyoho" and "Amaou." The event also incorporates sweets with a motif of the 2025 zodiac sign, the Snake, to bring good fortune in the new year.

The buffet showcases a variety of strawberry-centric sweets. The classic strawberry shortcake features "Nyoho" strawberries, known for their intense sweetness and balanced acidity. The light whipped cream and moist, rice flour-infused sponge cake serve to enhance the strawberries’ natural sweetness and freshness. The Paris-Brest, a crispy choux pastry filled generously with cream, is paired with the fragrant "Amaou" variety, which offers a harmonious blend of sweetness and acidity. The glossy, bright red ripe "Amaou" strawberries add a jewel-like aesthetic to this visually appealing dish. For the Crème d’Anjou, a rich fromage blanc dessert, carefully selected seasonal domestic strawberries are pureed into a luxurious sauce.

In addition to these, the buffet includes a selection of zodiac-themed sweets. A snake-shaped brioche filled with strawberries and cream is sure to be a conversation starter, with each snake sporting a unique, playful expression. A chocolate mousse adorned with a dynamically shaped snake made of coconut jelly is another eye-catching offering. This dessert combines the rich flavors of raspberry-flavored chocolate mousse and crème brûlée.

A highlight of the buffet is the chocolate fountain featuring the hotel’s original "Grande H" chocolate. Pastry Chef Kaneko journeyed to France to create this exclusive blend, which boasts a rich, powerful cacao flavor with spicy, woody undertones. Guests can indulge in this special chocolate by dipping strawberries and other ingredients of their choice.

The savory selection includes five types of dishes. Among them are sandwiches made with strawberry-flavored melon bread filled with Iberian ham and cream cheese, a quiche featuring winter vegetables, and tartines of house-smoked salmon (smoked slowly for 7-8 hours with cherry wood smoke chips) and rapeseed blossoms on baguettes.

This all-strawberry afternoon tea, featuring sweets crafted by a world-champion pastry team and savories reflecting the passion of the "French Kitchen" chef, offers a luxurious way to celebrate the start of the new year.

Menu Highlights

Sweets

• Nyoho Strawberry Shortcake
• Amaou Strawberry Paris-Brest
• Strawberry Crème d’Anjou
• Strawberry White Chocolate Mousse
• Snake Strawberry Brioche
• Fortune Chocolate Mousse
• Hotel Original Chocolate "Grande H" Chocolate Fountain

Savories

• Strawberry Melon Bread Sandwich with Iberian Ham and Cream Cheese
• Quiche with Bacon, Lotus Root, and Salsify
• Tartine with Smoked Salmon, Mimosa, and Rapeseed Blossoms
• Chicken Tortilla Wrap with Celeriac and Spinach
• Tartlet with Pork Rillette and Walnuts

Scones

• Strawberry and Chocolate Scone
• Plain Scone
• Clotted Cream / Strawberry Jam

Tea

• Selection from Los Angeles-based premium organic tea brand "ART OF TEA"
• Cafe Latte (iced/hot) and Cappuccino (iced/hot) are also available.

Event Details

• Venue: Grand Hyatt Tokyo (3-minute walk from Roppongi Station)
• Address: 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 〒106-0032 (MAP)
• Event Period: December 26, 2024 (Thursday) – January 31, 2025 (Friday)
• Time: Ends at 5:00 PM (Last Entry 3:30 PM)
  • Weekdays: 2-hour time limit
  • Weekends & Holidays: 90-minute time limit
• Price:
  • Weekdays: 7,150 yen
  • With a glass of champagne: 8,800 yen
  • Prices include tax and a 15% service charge
• Inquiries: Grand Hyatt Tokyo French Kitchen (Direct Line) – 03-4333-8781
• Official Website: https://www.tokyo.grand.hyatt.co.jp/restaurants/recommended/french-kitchen-sweetsfesta-afternoontea/#strawberry

Please note that the content is subject to change. Check the official website for the latest information.

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What Makes Japanese Strawberries Unique?

Japanese strawberries are known for their high quality, achieved through careful cultivation techniques. They are often grown in controlled environments like greenhouses, where conditions such as temperature, humidity, and sunlight are precisely managed. This results in strawberries that are consistently sweet, juicy, and aromatic.

Farmers in Japan blend traditional methods with modern technology to improve the flavor and texture of their strawberries. The soil is enriched with organic matter, and hand-pollination is used to maintain uniformity and quality. This dedication is reflected in the strawberries’ appearance, which are typically larger, more vibrant, and conically shaped.

Certain varieties, like Amaou and Tochiotome, are particularly prized and can be quite expensive. These strawberries are often given as gifts and are featured in high-end culinary settings.

In summary, the combination of precise farming practices and cultural significance contributes to the reputation of Japanese strawberries as a premium product.

DESIGNS: A Mamoru Nagano Retrospective

From January 17th to February 11th, 2025, the Grand Front Osaka North Building will host a comprehensive exhibition dedicated to the work of Mamoru Nagano, a designer renowned for his contributions to the worlds of manga and anime. This event, titled "DESIGNS," offers a rare opportunity to delve into the creative process behind Nagano’s most iconic works, including "The Five Star Stories," "Heavy Metal L-Gaim," and "Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam."

A Unique Opportunity for Fans and Design Enthusiasts

The exhibition will showcase approximately 380 items, carefully selected to represent the breadth and depth of Nagano’s career. Visitors can expect to see original drawings, illustrations, setting materials, and rough sketches, providing an intimate look at the evolution of his designs. The collection spans from pieces predating his commercial debut to his more recent work on "Gothicmade," offering a comprehensive overview of his artistic journey.

Unlike previous exhibitions that may have focused on a single title or period, "DESIGNS" presents a holistic view of Nagano’s oeuvre. This approach allows attendees to appreciate the interconnectedness of his various projects and to trace the development of his distinctive style over time.

Event Details

The exhibition will be held at the Knowledge Capital Event Lab, located on the B1 floor of the Grand Front Osaka North Building (3-1 Ofukamachi, Kita-ku, Osaka). The venue is easily accessible and provides ample space to comfortably view the extensive collection.

Dates: January 17th (Friday) to February 11th (Tuesday/Holiday), 2025

Hours: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Last entry at 6:30 PM)

Admission Fees:

• General: 2,300 yen (2,000 yen for advance tickets)
• University/Vocational/High School Students: 2,100 yen (1,800 yen for advance tickets)
• Junior High/Elementary School Students: 1,000 yen (800 yen for advance tickets)

Advance tickets can be purchased until 11:59 PM on January 16th.

Additional Information

In addition to the exhibited works, the event will feature a selection of original merchandise available for purchase. This provides an opportunity for fans to acquire unique items related to Nagano’s designs.

For inquiries, please contact Hello Dial at 050-5542-8600. The service is available daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Further details about the exhibition can be found on the official website: https://naganomamoru-osaka-exhibition.com/

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What is Five Star Stories?

"Five Star Stories" is a manga series by Mamoru Nagano, first serialized in 1986. It is set in the Joker System, a distant galaxy with diverse star systems, each featuring unique cultures and political dynamics. The series is known for its detailed storytelling, complex characters, and Nagano’s distinctive art style.

Central to "Five Star Stories" are the Mortar Headds, large, intricately designed mecha piloted by knights called Headdliners. These machines are both technological and artistic achievements, showcasing Nagano’s expertise in mechanical design. The narrative explores themes of power, loyalty, and destiny, focusing on characters like the enigmatic Amaterasu and the Fatima, genetically engineered beings who assist in piloting the Mortar Headds.

Nagano’s world-building is thorough, featuring a detailed setting with a complex history and diverse societies. "Five Star Stories" is more than a tale of battles and political intrigue; it also reflects on beauty, the passage of time, and the balance between order and chaos. The series has a dedicated following and is considered a classic in the mecha genre, influencing both manga and anime with its innovative approach and artistic vision.

Art Golden Gai by Nox Gallery x Superchief x Brillia

A Unique Immersive Art Experience in a Soon-to-be-Demolished Tokyo Apartment Building

"Art Golden Gai by Nox Gallery x Superchief x Brillia" is a large-scale immersive art festival that will take over an entire abandoned apartment building in the heart of Tokyo. Scheduled for demolition in February 2025, this 10-story building, situated at the nexus of Shibuya, Ebisu, and Daikanyama, will be transformed into a dynamic hub of artistic expression. The event, running from January 19th to January 28th, 2025, promises to deliver a unique blend of cutting-edge art, music, and technology to a global audience.

The festival’s name, "Art Golden Gai," pays homage to Shinjuku Golden Gai, a renowned cultural enclave that has long attracted artists, writers, and filmmakers from around the world. This event seeks to capture a similar spirit of creativity and collaboration, offering a platform for both established and emerging artists to showcase their work in an unconventional setting.

Exhibition Highlights

Apartment Common Areas

The building’s common areas, including the entrance, will be completely reimagined by scenic artist Amanda Hagy, known for her work on Hollywood films such as "JOKER" and "WEST SIDE STORY." Each floor will feature a distinct theme, ranging from cyberpunk aesthetics to the vibrant world of Dekotora (decorated trucks), creating an immersive environment reminiscent of a cinematic universe.

NOX Gallery EBISU Powered by Brillia (1st – 2nd floor)

The first two floors will house NOX Gallery EBISU, which will feature three distinct experiences:

• IMMERSIVE ART & SOUND: This section will host immersive audio-visual art shows and events, providing a sensory feast for attendees.
• FUTURE ART AT HOME & OFFICE: NOX GALLERY will present "Dynamic Art," an innovative art form that evolves over time, offering a glimpse into the future of art in everyday spaces.
• ART x SHORT FILM Gallery: In collaboration with "ShortShorts," organizers of the Short Shorts Film Festival & Asia, this gallery will showcase short films from around the world. Multiple monitors will allow visitors to enjoy these cinematic works in a gallery-like setting. Plans are also in place for performance collaborations with visual artists and the development of a community space for creators during the exhibition.

Art Apartment (3rd – 10th floor)

The residential areas from the third floor upwards will be transformed into individual art spaces. Each of the 50 apartments will be occupied by a different artist, who will decorate their space using a variety of techniques, including traditional painting and digital signage. This diverse approach ensures that each apartment will offer a unique artistic experience. The participating artists include a mix of internationally recognized figures and up-and-coming talents, such as:

• Parker Day
• Claire Silver
• Shintaro Kago
• IDerec
• ClownVamp
• Aerosynlex Maestrovic
• Rax On Chain
• Snipe1
• Alligator Jesus
• VMO
• Pol Kurucz
• Vandalo Ruins

The varied themes and worldviews created on each floor are a major highlight of the festival, promising a journey through diverse artistic landscapes.

Event Details

• Venue: Saison Daikanyama
• Nearest Station: Daikanyama Station
• Address: 2-5-1 Ebisu Nishi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0021, Japan (MAP)
• Event Period: January 19th, 2025 (Sunday) – January 28th, 2025 (Tuesday)
• Hours: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Price: Please check the official website for details.
• Official Website: https://www.artgoldengai.com/

Please note that the published content is 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 is Golden Gai?

Golden Gai is a district in Tokyo, known for its distinctive nightlife and atmosphere. Located in Shinjuku, this small neighborhood features narrow alleyways and closely packed buildings, each housing small bars and eateries. With over 200 establishments in a compact area, Golden Gai offers a variety of themed bars, each with its own character.

Historically, Golden Gai has been a gathering place for artists, writers, and musicians, maintaining a creative spirit that continues to draw people from around the world. The area is noted for its retro feel, with many bars preserving their post-war architecture and decor, providing a look into Tokyo’s past. Despite its somewhat worn exterior, Golden Gai is a welcoming place where both locals and tourists can enjoy conversations and unique experiences.

As Tokyo changes, Golden Gai remains a part of the city’s cultural history, preserving a piece of the past in a modern setting. However, with some buildings facing demolition, the future of Golden Gai is uncertain. The upcoming "Art Golden Gai 2025" event will celebrate its legacy.

60th Original Famous Ekiben and National Delicious Foods Fair

A 19-Day Celebration of Japan’s Culinary Heritage

The Keio Department Store in Shinjuku is set to host its annual signature event, the "Original Famous Ekiben and Nationwide Delicious Foods Fair," for an unprecedented 19 days, from January 4th (Saturday) to January 22nd (Wednesday), 2025. This year marks the 60th anniversary of this iconic fair, making it a particularly special occasion for both the organizers and attendees.

A Legacy of Culinary Excellence

The "Ekiben Fair," as it is commonly known, has been a continuous tradition since 1966. It stands as one of the largest department store exhibitions in Japan, both in terms of scale and sales. While the original purpose of ekiben—boxed meals sold at train stations—has evolved with advancements in transportation, the fair has adapted, showcasing the rich diversity of regional Japanese cuisine.

In recent years, ekiben have garnered attention not just as convenient travel meals but as gourmet representations of local food cultures. Enthusiasts now enjoy them as culinary highlights at their destinations and even collect the unique containers as souvenirs. This shift in perception has broadened the appeal of ekiben, transforming them into a multifaceted culinary experience.

"Nostalgic Flavors, New Tastes"

The 60th iteration of the fair embraces the theme "Nostalgic Flavors, New Tastes," offering a curated selection of both time-honored classics and innovative new creations. This dual focus allows visitors to appreciate the enduring charm of beloved ekiben while also discovering new flavors born from the ingenuity of ekiben preparers.

The fair will be divided into three periods:

• Period ①: January 4th (Saturday) – January 8th (Wednesday)
• Period ②: January 9th (Thursday) – January 15th (Wednesday)
• Period ③: January 16th (Thursday) – January 22nd (Wednesday)

This extended duration, the longest in the fair’s history, provides ample opportunity for visitors to explore the offerings at their leisure. A remarkable 47 ekiben preparers will be present for live sales throughout the event, ensuring a vibrant and interactive atmosphere.

Event Details

• Venue: Keio Department Store Shinjuku
• Nearest Station: Shinjuku Station (1-minute walk)
• Address: 〒160-8321 Tokyo, Shinjuku-ku, Nishi-Shinjuku 1-1-4 (MAP)
• Event Period: January 4th (Saturday) – January 22nd (Wednesday), 2025
• Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Closing at 5:00 PM on January 15th (Wednesday), and at 6:00 PM on the final day, January 22nd (Wednesday))
• Fee: Free
• Inquiries: Navi Dial 0570-022-810

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

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What is an Ekiben?

An ekiben is a type of bento box meal available at train stations throughout Japan, providing travelers with a convenient way to enjoy regional cuisine. The word "ekiben" combines "eki," meaning station, and "bento," a packed meal. These meals offer a practical solution for travelers and a chance to experience local flavors and ingredients.

Each ekiben is designed to highlight local specialties, often using seasonal ingredients and traditional recipes that reflect the region’s culinary heritage. From fresh seafood in coastal areas to mountain vegetables in rural regions, ekiben showcase Japan’s diverse food landscape. They are presented in decorative boxes, making them visually appealing as well.

The tradition of ekiben began in the late 19th century and has become a cherished part of Japanese travel culture. Today, events like the Keio Department Store’s ekiben fair bring together a variety of these regional meals, allowing people to sample different ekiben without traveling far.

Indulge in the Matsuken Buffet: A Culinary Celebration of "Matsuken Samba II"

Experience the World of "Matsuken Samba II" at This Unique Hotel Buffet

Keio Plaza Hotel Hachioji presents a novel culinary experience: the world’s first hotel buffet dedicated to the vibrant and festive atmosphere of "Matsuken Samba II." This event celebrates the 20th anniversary of the song’s release, offering a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in its enduring charm.

As the infectious rhythms of "Matsuken Samba II" fill the air, guests will be transported to a golden-hued interior, a space meticulously designed to evoke the spirit of the Matsuken world. The buffet itself is a culinary journey inspired by the song, featuring a selection of dishes that are as playful as they are delicious. Highlights include the "Chonmage Ebi Fry Pilaf," a topknot-shaped shrimp fry pilaf, the luxurious "Golden Risotto with Truffle Oil," and the "Café au Lait! Chiffon Cake," a dessert directly inspired by the song’s lyrics.

In addition to the themed cuisine, guests will have the exclusive opportunity to purchase Matsuken merchandise. A special dinner buffet will also be available on November 27th and 28th, coinciding with Ken Matsuhira’s birthday, featuring a pre-sale of original mugs.

Pricing and Schedule

Lunch

• Weekdays: Adults 4,000 yen / Elementary School Students 2,500 yen / Children (4-5 years old) 1,200 yen
• Weekends & Holidays: Adults 4,500 yen / Elementary School Students 2,500 yen / Children (4-5 years old) 1,200 yen
• Hours:
  • Weekdays: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM [105 minutes]
  • Weekends & Holidays: 1st Seating 11:30 AM – 1:15 PM, 2nd Seating 1:30 PM – 3:15 PM [105 minutes]

Dinner

• Friday: Adults 6,000 yen / Elementary School Students 3,500 yen / Children (4-5 years old) 1,200 yen
• Weekends & Holidays: Adults 6,500 yen / Elementary School Students 3,500 yen / Children (4-5 years old) 1,200 yen
• Special: Dinner service will also be available every Wednesday and Thursday starting November 27th.
• Hours:
  • Wednesday-Friday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM [No time limit]
  • Weekends & Holidays: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM [120 minutes]

Note: Children 3 years old and younger dine for free. Both lunch and dinner include a selection of beverages (coffee, tea, and various soft drinks).

Original Mug Pre-sale

• Dates: November 27th (Wednesday) and 28th (Thursday) during dinner service
• Price: 800 yen (tax included)
• Note: Limited to one per person, while supplies last.

Event Details

• Venue: Keio Plaza Hotel Hachioji
• Nearest Station: Hachioji Station
• Address: 〒192-0083 Tokyo, Hachioji City, Asahi-cho 14-1, 2nd Floor / Restaurant <Le Clair> (MAP)
• Event Period: November 1, 2024 (Friday) – January 5, 2025 (Sunday)
• Official Website: https://www.keioplaza.co.jp/hachioji/event/winter-buffet/

Disclaimer: Event details are subject to change. Please refer to the official website for the most up-to-date information.

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What is Matsuken Samba II?

"Matsuken Samba II" is a well-known Japanese song performed by actor and singer Ken Matsudaira. Released in 2004, it gained popularity in Japan for its samba rhythm and lively choreography. Matsudaira, in a samurai costume, combined traditional Japanese elements with Latin-inspired music, engaging audiences with his performances. The song’s style has made it a regular feature at festivals and events, maintaining its appeal even two decades later. To celebrate its lasting popularity, the Keio Plaza Hotel Hachioji offers a themed buffet, allowing fans to enjoy dishes and entertainment inspired by "Matsuken Samba II."

Usher in the New Year at Rikugi-en Garden 🎊

Kick off 2025 with a serene and culturally enriching experience at Rikugi-en Garden, one of Tokyo’s eight metropolitan gardens. For the first two days of the new year, this historical landscape will be adorned with traditional kadomatsu (gate pines) and other festive decorations. This year, Rikugi-en offers unique experiences not found at other metropolitan gardens celebrating the New Year, including kimono-clad visitor perks and special photo opportunities.

Special New Year’s Activities:

• Kimono Perk: Arrive in traditional kimono and receive an exclusive Rikugi-en postcard as a memento of your visit.
• Auspicious Flowerbeds: Admire vibrant displays of good-luck flowerbeds, adding a touch of color to the winter scenery.
• Commemorative Photo Booth: Capture the moment in a happi coat with a Rikugi-en lantern. (Cancelled in case of rain.)
• Guided Garden Tours: Volunteer guides offer insightful tours of the garden, revealing its history and hidden gems. (Cancelled in case of rain.)

Essential Information:

• Venue: Rikugi-en
• Nearest Stations: Komagome Station / Sengoku Station
• Address: 6-16-3 Honkomagome, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 〒113-0021
• Map: Google Maps
• Dates: January 2nd (Thursday) – January 3rd (Friday), 2025
• Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry: 4:30 PM)
• Admission:
  • General: ¥300
  • Seniors (65+): ¥150
  • Free for elementary school students and younger, and Tokyo junior high school students (living or attending school in Tokyo).
  • Group Discount (20+ people):
    • General: ¥240
    • Seniors (65+): ¥120
• Free Admission: Visitors with a physical disability certificate, an Ai-no-techo, a Ryoiku-techo, or a mental disability certificate, and their accompanying person (one person in principle).
• Contact: Rikugi-en Service Center 03-3941-2222
• Official Event Website: New Year’s Start of the Year at the Metropolitan Gardens
• Weather Note: The event is held rain or shine, but some activities are cancelled in case of rain.

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Please note that event details are subject to change. Always check the official website for the latest information.

Rikugi-en Garden Overview

Rikugi-en Garden is a historic Japanese garden in Tokyo, known for its landscape and traditional design. Established during the Edo period in the early 18th century for the 5th shogun, Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, the garden reflects the aesthetic of a typical Edo-period strolling garden. "Rikugi-en" means "Garden of the Six Principles," embodying the elements of waka poetry in its layout.

Visitors can explore its winding paths that guide them through a carefully tended landscape of hills, pruned trees, peaceful ponds, and stone bridges. The garden’s central feature is a large pond, surrounded by dense foliage and teahouses, providing scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere within the city’s hustle.

Rikugi-en is notably recognized for its seasonal beauty, especially the cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage, which attract locals and tourists alike. Its historical value and refined design mark it as a significant cultural site in Tokyo, highlighting the integration of nature and art typical of Japanese gardens.