Suica Penguin Strawberry Sweets Buffet

Indulge in a Unique, Limited-Edition Strawberry-Themed Extravaganza at Hotel Metropolitan

The highly anticipated annual Suica Penguin Strawberry Sweets Buffet returns to the Hotel Metropolitan in Ikebukuro, Tokyo. This year’s event promises an array of approximately 20 different hotel-made sweets, each meticulously crafted to showcase the versatility of strawberries. Guests can expect to find familiar favorites alongside innovative new creations, ensuring a delightful experience for both returning attendees and newcomers.

Among the many delectable offerings are the ever-popular strawberry tart, generously adorned with fresh, ripe strawberries, and the decadent strawberry and cherry Black Forest cake. Other highlights include a visually stunning strawberry naked cake, a delicate sakura weekend cake, and a classic strawberry Paris-Brest. For those seeking more adventurous flavors, the buffet features strawberry canelé, a unique strawberry and rhubarb fruit gratin, and a sophisticated strawberry and pistachio fraisier cake. The selection is further enhanced by the inclusion of fresh strawberry Mont Blanc, a rich strawberry flan, and even strawberry churros.

What truly sets this buffet apart is the availability of limited-edition Suica Penguin-themed sweets. These adorable treats, featuring the beloved penguin mascot of the Suica transit card, are not typically sold in the hotel’s cake shop, making this a rare opportunity to savor them. This year, the Suica Penguin macarons will boast a new flavor profile, combining orange-flavored black tea cream with a tangy strawberry confiture. The Suica Penguin glass sweets will feature a luxurious ruby chocolate milk pudding complemented by a refreshing strawberry jelly.

In addition to the abundance of sweets, the buffet also offers a selection of light savory options, such as sandwiches, soup, and salad, providing a welcome balance to the sugary indulgence. Each adult guest will also receive a complimentary strawberry mocktail, adding a touch of elegance to the experience.

Suica Penguin Mini Strawberry Parfait

As a special treat, each attendee will be presented with a complimentary Suica Penguin Mini Strawberry Parfait. This charming dessert features a base of cranberry jelly, studded with blueberries and raspberries, layered with a light strawberry mousse, and topped with fresh strawberries, strawberry cream, and a delicate strawberry macaron.

Essential Information for Your Visit

• Location: Hotel Metropolitan, Ikebukuro Station
• Address: 1-6-1 Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 171-8505 (MAP)
• Venue: Banquet Hall Sakura, 4th Floor
• Event Dates: March 8th (Saturday) – March 9th (Sunday), 2025
• Session Times: Two sessions daily, 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM, each lasting 100 minutes
• Reservations: Online reservations open at 12:00 PM on February 5th (Wednesday), 2025.
• Pricing:
  • Adults: 8,000 yen
  • Elementary School Students: 3,500 yen
  • Children aged 4-6: 1,500 yen (Please note that this price does not include the special dessert. If desired, the elementary school student price will apply.)
• Note: Prices include consumption tax and a 13% service charge.
• Cancellation Policy: A 50% cancellation fee applies from 7 days prior to the event, increasing to 100% from 3 days prior.
• Inquiries: Hotel Metropolitan (direct line): 03-3980-7601
• Official Website: https://ikebukuro.metropolitan.jp/banquet/plan/plan/strawberry_sweets_buffet_2025.html

Please be aware that the availability of ingredients may necessitate changes to the menu. For the most up-to-date information, please consult the official website.

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What is Suica Penguin?

The Suica Penguin is the mascot of the Suica card, a widely used rechargeable contactless smart card for transportation and shopping in Japan. Created by JR East (East Japan Railway Company), the Suica card is a common tool for commuters and travelers in Tokyo and other regions. The penguin character, designed by illustrator Chiharu Sakazaki, is recognized for its simple design. It appears in promotional materials and merchandise, representing the convenience of the Suica card for travel and transactions. At the Hotel Metropolitan’s 2025 Suica Penguin Strawberry Sweets Buffet, the character is featured in a selection of themed treats that highlight both the penguin and strawberry flavors.

LaLaport Toyosu × Bright-Eyed Friends/Companions

Mitsui Shopping Park Urban Dock LaLaport Toyosu and the "Bright-Eyed Friends/Companions" Series’ First Collaboration Event

Mitsui Shopping Park Urban Dock LaLaport Toyosu is partnering with the "Bright-Eyed Friends/Companions" series for their first-ever collaboration event. This series, which has gained popularity through word-of-mouth and social media, features a cast of charming characters that will be the centerpiece of this unique event.

Visitors can look forward to a variety of engaging activities, including workshops, stamp rallies, and original photo spots. In addition, exclusive "Bright-Eyed Friends/Companions" merchandise will be available, along with special shopping campaigns that are only accessible during the event period. This collaboration offers a unique opportunity to interact with the "Bright-Eyed Friends/Companions" at the Urban Dock LaLaport Toyosu, making it a perfect way to start the new year.

Event Highlights

[Mitsui Shopping Park Kids Club] Create a Bright-Eyed Oyster Original Snow Globe!

Date: January 12, 2025 (Sunday)
Location: LaLaport Toyosu 1, 1F North Port Event Space
Time: ①11:00 AM ②1:00 PM ③2:00 PM ④3:00 PM ⑤4:00 PM

This one-day-only workshop invites participants to create their own snow globe featuring the adorable Oyster character from the "Bright-Eyed Friends/Companions" series. The event will be held at the Urban Dock LaLaport Toyosu North Port Event Space. All necessary materials, including the acrylic "Bright-Eyed Oyster," will be provided, ensuring that even young children can enjoy this activity with their families.

• Limited to 100 participants (20 per session).
• Open to Mitsui Shopping Park Kids Club members.
• Non-members can participate after registering for the Kids Club.
• Numbered tickets will be distributed starting at 10:00 AM.

Bright-Eyed Friends/Companions Stamp Rally

Dates: January 11, 2025 (Saturday) – February 2, 2025 (Sunday)

Embark on a scavenger hunt to locate the "Bright-Eyed Friends/Companions" hidden at four different locations within the building. Collect stamps of the characters on a special card, and upon completion, present it at the General Information Desk to receive a limited edition Urban Dock LaLaport Toyosu "Bright-Eyed Friends/Companions" original sticker. This offer is available to the first 3,000 participants.

Bright-Eyed Friends/Companions Photo Spot

Dates: January 11, 2025 (Saturday) – February 2, 2025 (Sunday)
Location: LaLaport Toyosu 3, 2F in front of Yurindo

A vibrant and whimsical photo spot featuring the "Bright-Eyed Friends/Companions" will be set up at LaLaport Toyosu. The installation will feature a 2.7-meter-high wall adorned with "Bright-Eyed Friends/Companions" plushies, providing a unique backdrop for photos. Visitors are encouraged to share their pictures on social media, creating lasting memories with family and friends.

Purchase Gift Campaign

Dates: January 11, 2025 (Saturday) – January 13, 2025 (Monday/Holiday)

During this period, shoppers who present a purchase receipt of 3,000 yen or more (including tax, single receipt only) from eligible stores within the building at the General Information Desk will receive an "Urban Dock LaLaport Toyosu Dressed-up Oyster Acrylic Keychain." This exclusive item is limited to the first 100 customers each day, for a total of 300 recipients.

• Please refer to the official website for further details.

Basic Information

• Venue/Nearest Station: Urban Dock LaLaport Toyosu, Toyosu Station
• Address: 〒135-8614 Tokyo, Koto-ku, Toyosu 2-4-9 (MAP)
• Event Period: January 11, 2025 (Saturday) – February 2, 2025 (Sunday)
  • Note: Event dates may vary. Please check the official website for specific details.
• Time: According to the facility’s business hours.
• Inquiries: Mitsui Shopping Park Urban Dock LaLaport Toyosu, 0570-077-732 (Reception hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
• Other URL: Urban Dock LaLaport Toyosu

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

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What is LaLaport Toyosu?

LaLaport Toyosu is a shopping and entertainment complex in the Toyosu district of Tokyo, Japan. It features modern architecture and waterfront views. The complex includes a variety of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities, appealing to both locals and tourists. Visitors can find a mix of international and Japanese brands, as well as cinemas, children’s play areas, and seasonal events. Its location and amenities make LaLaport Toyosu a notable destination in Tokyo.

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.