Experience the Magic of a New York Holiday Market at PLAZA Tokyo!

Get Ready to be Enchanted! PLAZA Tokyo Transforms into a Festive Holiday Wonderland!

This holiday season, skip the flight to New York and experience the magic right here in Tokyo! PLAZA Tokyo is transforming into a vibrant New York-inspired holiday market, inviting you to immerse yourself in the festive spirit with all your senses. From the scent of fir trees in the air to the twinkling lights and cheerful sounds, prepare to be transported to a winter wonderland.

Forget the usual PLAZA experience; this year, they’re pulling out all the stops. Imagine a giant Christmas tree adorned with unique PLAZA ornaments, market-style stalls, dimmed lighting, and sparkling string lights creating a magical atmosphere. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the sounds of New York City and Santa’s jolly laughter, while the aroma of fir trees fills the air. And yes, your taste buds are invited to the party too! The adjoining ‘Brooklyn Roasting Company’ cafe will be serving up delicious seasonal treats to complete your holiday experience.

But that’s not all! This immersive experience offers a range of exciting activities:

Exclusive Holiday Fun:

• Meet & Greet Santa! (December 14th, 15th, 21st, and 22nd): Grab a photo with Santa and create a lasting memory. You can even don an American ugly sweater for the occasion! (Numbered tickets required; see the official website for details.)
• Find a Mini Santa!: Embark on a scavenger hunt to find a designated mini Santa hidden amongst many. A special PLAZA treat awaits those who succeed! Listen closely; Santa’s voice might guide you…
• DIY Gift Magic!: Create personalized gifts with exclusive "Super Joyful Holiday Market" gift boxes and cards. Fill them with your favorite items and decorate a unique Christmas card for a truly special touch.
• A Christmas Tree Spectacle: Behold a magnificent 3-meter Christmas tree, a symbol of the market, decked with unique PLAZA ornaments and filling the air with festive scents and sounds.
• Toy Time!: Unleash your inner child (or let your actual children loose) at the toy experience corner. From hilarious games to zippy radio-controlled cars, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
• Holiday Treats: Indulge in seasonal delights at the ‘Brooklyn Roasting Company’ cafe. Don’t miss the American favorites like the Golden Latte and Cranberry Cake.

Event Details:

• Venue: PLAZA Tokyo (Yurakucho Station)
• Address: 〒100-0005 Tokyo, Chiyoda-ku, Marunouchi 3-5-1 Tokyo International Forum Building A 1F MAP
• Dates: November 30th, 2024 – December 25th, 2024 (Note: Specific event dates may vary.)
• Hours: 11:00 – 20:00
• Official Website: https://www.plazastyle.com/topics/detail/?id=1943&press=xm241025

Plan Your Visit:

• Check the official website for the latest information and event updates.
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What is PLAZA Tokyo?

PLAZA Tokyo is a well-known retail chain in Japan, recognized for its vibrant stores that offer a unique blend of international and domestic lifestyle products. Originating as a hub for trendy, fashionable, and often whimsical items, PLAZA Tokyo has become a beloved destination for both locals and tourists seeking an eclectic shopping experience. The stores are characterized by their colorful displays and an array of products that include cosmetics, home goods, stationery, fashion accessories, and an assortment of imported snacks and candies. This retailer curates a selection of items that often can’t be found in typical Japanese shops, consistently introducing global trends to its customers. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect gift or looking to indulge in some retail therapy, PLAZA Tokyo offers a little something for everyone, making it a fitting host for a holiday market that channels the festive spirit of a New York Christmas right in the heart of Japan.

Indulge Your Sweetest Cravings at the 2nd Annual Sweet Potato, Chestnut, and Red Bean Paste Festival!

Get ready to embark on a delicious journey at the 2nd Annual Sweet Potato, Chestnut, and Red Bean Paste Festival, held at the Tobu Department Store Ikebukuro Main Store. From October 17th to 22nd, 2024, prepare your taste buds for an explosion of autumnal flavors! Forty-seven vendors will showcase a delectable array of treats featuring seasonal stars like sweet potatoes and chestnuts, alongside the quintessential Japanese ingredient: red bean paste.

Calling All Sweet Potato Lovers!

Don’t miss the chance to sample five different varieties of baked sweet potatoes, each boasting unique sweetness and texture. Freshly baked on-site, these warm, comforting treats are the perfect autumn indulgence.

But the sweet potato fun doesn’t stop there! Explore a wide variety of innovative sweet potato creations, from creamy gelato to fluffy pastries:

• Oimo Biyori: Indulge in the "Honey Sweet Potato Two-Tone Mont Blanc Gelato" (¥800 eat-in) featuring a swirl of Shinshu Silk Sweet cream and vibrant purple Beni-imo cream from Okinawa, all atop a refreshing scoop of Shinshu milk gelato.
• Super Honey Baked Sweet Potato Pukupuku: Sink your teeth into the "Imo Kawayaki" (¥378), a crispy, fish-shaped waffle overflowing with luscious Silk Sweet potato paste.
• Sweet Potato Sweets Specialty Store Flanders Fritz: Treat yourself to the "Sweet Potato Mont Blanc Fresh Cream Puff" (¥451 each) in your choice of Beni-imo or Silk Sweet. These delightful puffs are filled with sweet potato custard and cream and topped with a decadent Mont Blanc swirl.
• Organic Sweet Potato Cafe Imoka: Experience the ultimate sweet potato extravaganza with the "Sweet Potato Filled Imoka Crepe" (¥1,300 eat-in). This gluten-free crepe is a masterpiece of flavor and texture, featuring purple sweet potato Mont Blanc, maple cream cheese, sweet potato custard, sweet potato brûlée, sweet potato chips, and candied sweet potato.

Roasted Chestnuts and Chestnut Delights

Experience the rich, nutty aroma and satisfying warmth of roasted chestnuts and chestnut-infused sweets:

• Tanba no Sachi: Enjoy freshly steamed "Tanba Roasted Chestnuts" featuring premium Tanba chestnuts from Hyogo Prefecture (¥1,620 for 230g, ¥3,240 for 500g).
• Fukudaya Kumamoto Waguri-an: Savor the "Freshly Picked Japanese Chestnut Cheese Cream Mont Blanc" (¥1,600 for a box of 3; limited to 50 boxes daily). Smooth cheese cream complements the exquisite flavor of Kumamoto chestnuts in this elegant, three-layered dessert.
• Shimanto Drama: Delight in the "Kinton Kuribayashi Tsubuiri" (¥1,296 for 3 pieces, ¥2,376 for 6 pieces), bite-sized mashed sweet potato confections filled with chopped domestic chestnuts and wrapped in Shimanto chestnut paste, each individually presented in a charming tea cloth.
• Kyoto Katsura Tsuruya Yoshinobu: Experience the delicate texture of the "Chestnut Warabi Mochi" (¥864; limited to 40 pieces daily), a bracken-starch dumpling meticulously kneaded for over an hour to achieve its signature soft and chewy consistency.

Red Bean Paste Perfection: From Classic to Cutting-Edge

From traditional favorites to modern interpretations, discover the versatility of red bean paste:

• Akafuku: Experience the timeless elegance of "Akafuku Mochi" (¥1,300 for 12 pieces; limited quantity daily). These soft mochi topped with smooth, strained red bean paste are a testament to the beauty of simplicity.
• Anko no Kachi: Explore the fusion of Japanese and Western flavors with the "An-shu Cream Trio" (¥1,501 for 3 pieces). These cream puffs feature three distinct layers of red bean paste – coarse, strained, and peeled – combined with creamy custard and fresh cream for a delightful interplay of textures and sweetness.
• Nikko Natural Ice Kuramoto Shogetsu Himuro: Cool down with the "Azuki Milk (Uji Matcha)" shaved ice (¥2,001 eat-in; limited to 30 servings daily), a refreshing treat made with azuki beans from Tochigi’s renowned Koun-do Honten and premium Uji Matcha.

Event Details:

• Dates: October 17th (Thursday) – October 22nd (Tuesday), 2024
• Time: 10:00 – 19:00 (Last order for eat-in is 30 minutes before closing)
• Location: Tobu Department Store Ikebukuro Main Store, 8th Floor Event Space
• Address: 1-1-25 Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 〒171-8512
• Nearest Station: Ikebukuro Station
• MAP
• Tobu Department Store Ikebukuro Main Store
• Official Website: https://www.tobu-dept.jp/ikebukuro/event/detail/7214

Prices include consumption tax (10% for eat-in). Please note that event details are subject to change. Refer to the official website for the latest information.

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Indulge in a White Christmas Dream: Noël Blanc Afternoon Tea Buffet at Grand Hyatt Tokyo

This year, experience the magic of a White Christmas at Grand Hyatt Tokyo’s "Noël Blanc" Afternoon Tea Buffet. Inspired by the hotel’s holiday theme, "Love for Our Future," this isn’t your typical afternoon tea. Instead of a tiered stand, a decadent buffet awaits, overflowing with sweet and savory treats, all centered around the pristine beauty of white.

Imagine a pistachio-scented Christmas tree mousse, delicate snowflake-shaped white chocolate mousse, and a signature Buche de Noel featuring the hotel’s exclusive "Grande H" chocolate blended with tangy raspberries. But the star of the show? A cascading chocolate fountain, overflowing with the rich, intensely flavorful Grande H chocolate. Dip fresh strawberries and other treats to your heart’s content, savoring a unique flavor experience only found at the Grand Hyatt Tokyo.

Beyond the sweets, indulge in savory delights like prosciutto and pumpkin nestled in yuzu-scented melon bread, among other delectable options. Complete your festive experience with traditional European Glühwein (hot mulled wine) and creamy eggnog, adding a warm, comforting touch to your afternoon.

What Makes This Afternoon Tea Unique?

Unlike traditional afternoon tea sets, the Noël Blanc buffet offers unlimited access to a wide variety of both sweet and savory items. This year’s highlight is the Grande H chocolate fountain, a unique opportunity to experience this exclusive chocolate in a truly indulgent way.

Event Details:

• Location: Grand Hyatt Tokyo (3-minute walk from Roppongi Station)
• Address: 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 〒106-0032 Map
• Venue: French Kitchen (All Day Dining)
• Dates: December 1st (Sunday) – December 25th (Wednesday), 2024
• Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Last Entry: 3:30 PM)
  • Weekdays: 2-hour limit
  • Weekends & Holidays: 90-minute limit
  • December 23rd – 25th: 90-minute limit starting at 3:00 PM
• Price: ¥7,150 (tax included, 15% service charge separate)
• Contact: 03-4333-8781 or [email protected]
• Website: Grand Hyatt Tokyo Noël Blanc Afternoon Tea

Important Notes:

• Menu and prices are subject to change.
• Photos are for illustrative purposes only.
• For the most up-to-date information, please visit the official website.

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What is Noël Blanc?

Noël Blanc, translating to "White Christmas" in English, evokes the enchanting ambiance of a winter wonderland, capturing the spirit and elegance of a classic white Christmas. This concept is embraced by Grand Hyatt Tokyo to create a luxurious and festive atmosphere throughout their holiday offerings. The Noël Blanc theme is characterized by the use of pristine whites, shimmering silvers, and frosty accents, transporting guests into a serene and magical winter scene. Through tasteful decorations, exquisite culinary creations, and a serene ambiance, Noël Blanc at Grand Hyatt Tokyo invites guests to indulge in the joy and tranquility of the season, making it an ideal setting for celebrating Christmas with sophistication and style.

✨ Christmas at Le Ange Church 2024 ✨

Experience the magic of Christmas at Minami-Aoyama Le Ange Church in Tokyo! This year, we’re transforming the church into a winter wonderland with enchanting illuminations and the warm glow of candlelight. Join us for unique workshops, heartwarming concerts, and unforgettable candlelit evenings.

What’s in store for you?

This Christmas, Le Ange Church offers more than just beautiful decorations. Create lasting memories with loved ones at our special events:

• Craft unique Christmas ornaments: Work alongside a talented florist to design your own festive decorations. This workshop adds a personal touch to your Christmas celebrations, letting you create keepsakes to cherish for years to come.

• Experience the magic of a Candle Night: Bask in the soft glow of candlelight within the beautifully decorated church. This serene and intimate experience offers a moment of peace and reflection during the festive season. Reservation required.

• Enjoy a heartwarming Christmas Concert: Our choir will fill the church with joyous music, creating a magical atmosphere for both children and adults. This concert promises to be a highlight of your Christmas celebrations.

Event Schedule & Pricing:

Saturday, December 21st

• Chapel Candle Night:

  • Reception: 6:00 PM
  • End: 7:30 PM
  • Fee: ¥550 (free for preschoolers) Reservation required

• Workshop & Candle Night:

  • Reception: 6:00 PM
  • End: 7:00 PM
  • Fee: Adults ¥5,500, Children ¥550 (free for preschoolers) Reservation required

Sunday, December 22nd

• Workshop & Candle Night:

  • 1st Session: Reception 5:45 PM – 7:00 PM
  • 2nd Session: Reception 7:15 PM – 8:30 PM
  • Fee: Adults ¥5,500, Children ¥550 (free for preschoolers) Reservation required

• Chapel Christmas Concert & Candle Night:

  • 1st Session: Reception 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
  • 2nd Session: Reception 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM
  • Fee: Adults ¥3,850, Children ¥550 (free for preschoolers) Reservation required

Event Details:

• Location: Minami-Aoyama Le Ange Church
• Nearest Station: Omotesando Station
• Address: 〒107-0062 Tokyo, Minato-ku, Minami-Aoyama 3-14-23 Map
• Illumination Period: Until February 28th, 2025
• Illumination Hours: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Capacity: 120 people per session
• Inquiries: Minami-Aoyama Le Ange Church 03-3402-7222
• Official Website: Minami-Aoyama Le Ange Church
• Rain or Shine Event

Please note: Event details are subject to change. Check the official website for the latest information.

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What is Le Ange Church?

Le Ange Church is a picturesque and serene venue located in the heart of Tokyo, renowned for its beautiful architecture and tranquil ambiance. With its elegant, European-inspired design, Le Ange Church serves as a popular destination for weddings and special events, attracting visitors with its stunning interiors and lush gardens. During the Christmas season, the church becomes a captivating haven of festive decorations and spiritual celebrations, offering a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to creating memorable experiences make Le Ange Church a cherished landmark for both locals and tourists seeking a magical setting for their holiday festivities.

Dive into a World of Tomica Fun at the Nagoya Expo!

Get ready to experience the thrill of the "Twin Course Mountain Road Slider" and explore the all-new job experience corner at the Tomica Expo in Nagoya! This isn’t just any Tomica event; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in a world of miniature vehicles and exciting new attractions.

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Expo Hours:

• Weekdays: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Last entry at 3:30 PM)
• Weekends: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM (Last entry at 3:30 PM)

Location: Fukiage Hall (Nagoya City Small and Medium Enterprise Promotion Hall)

Getting There:

To avoid traffic congestion, we highly recommend using public transport. The venue is a quick 5-minute walk from Exit 5 of Fukiage Station on the Subway Sakura-dori Line. Please refrain from parking at neighboring businesses.

Tickets:

Tickets are exclusively available online. No tickets will be sold at the venue. For detailed pricing and purchasing information, please visit the official website.

Contact Information:

• Chukyo TV Broadcasting
• Tel: 052-588-4466 (Weekdays 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, closed weekends and holidays)

Official Website: https://www.ctv.co.jp/event/tomica/

What is Tomica?

Tomica is a well-loved brand of die-cast toy vehicles produced by Takara Tomy, a prominent Japanese toy company. Launched in 1970, Tomica quickly gained popularity for its high-quality, detailed miniature replicas of real-life cars, trucks, construction equipment, and other vehicles. Each Tomica model is crafted with precision to mimic the design and features of its full-sized counterpart, making it a favorite among collectors and children alike.

The allure of Tomica lies in its dedication to authenticity and variety. With a vast range of models inspired by vehicles from all over the world, Tomica offers something for every enthusiast, whether it’s a Japanese sports car, a European luxury sedan, or an efficient city bus. Over the decades, Tomica has expanded its lineup to include various themed series and special editions, often released to commemorate events or partnerships, further fueling the excitement among its fans.

In addition to the vehicles, Tomica has developed an expansive world of playsets and tracks, allowing children to create imaginative scenarios and mini-cities. With features like functioning roadways and interactive elements, these playsets encourage creativity and bring the miniature world of Tomica to life.

Overall, Tomica’s blend of quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and rich history has solidified its place as a beloved icon in the toy vehicle industry, continuing to captivate generations of collectors and young fans worldwide.

Hop Aboard the Kyoto Bread Bus! 🥐🚌

Discover Kyoto’s hidden bakery gems with the "Petit Journey" bus tour! Currently in its delicious second phase, the Bread Edition, this tour lets you explore delightful sweet shops and bakeries featured on a handy map available at subway stations. Use a special, discounted bus ticket to hop between locations and savor the city’s best baked goods. Even better, enter the Instagram hashtag campaign for a chance to win popular products!

What makes the Bread Edition special?

While the previous phase focused on general sweets, the Bread Edition zeroes in on Kyoto’s vibrant bread scene. From traditional Japanese bakeries to artisanal sourdough spots, this tour offers a unique way to experience the city’s baking culture.

How does it work?

Grab a "Petit Journey" map at any subway station. This map highlights participating bakeries and sweet shops across Kyoto. Then, purchase the special bus ticket, hop on, and start your bread adventure!

Key Details:

Tour Dates: October 11, 2024 – December 16, 2024

Ticket Price: ¥870 (Adult) – The same price as a regular one-day bus and subway pass!

Where to Buy Tickets:

• Subway Station Stationmaster’s Office (Excluding Kami-Otai and Kami-Iida Stations)
• Transportation Bureau Service Centers (Nagoya, Sakae, Kanayama)

Note: Tickets are limited and sold on a first-come, first-served basis. Payment is accepted via cash or transportation IC card only.

Participating Bakeries: Check the official website’s affiliated store list for specific locations.

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Contact Information:

City Bus/Subway Discount Tour Campaign Office (Organized by Nagoya City Transportation Bureau)

• Phone: 050-3205-1619
• Email: [email protected]
• Office Hours: 9:00 – 17:00
• Holiday Closure: December 28, 2024 – January 5, 2025

What are Kyoto’s hidden bakery neighborhoods?

Kyoto, renowned for its historic temples and serene gardens, also boasts a thriving bakery scene nestled within its less-traveled neighborhoods. These hidden gems offer a delicious fusion of traditional Japanese flavors and classic Western baking techniques.

One of these enclaves is the quaint district of Arashiyama. While tourists flock to its bamboo groves and monkey park, the local bakeries offer artisanal bread infused with unique, locally-sourced ingredients like yuzu and matcha. Tucked away in its narrow streets, you’ll find bakeries that surprise with inventive pastries showcasing Kyoto’s seasonal produce.

Another area that delights the senses is Shimogamo, located near the tranquil Kamo River. This neighborhood is home to boutique bakeries where warm, freshly baked goods are crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Here, the influence of Kyoto’s rich tea culture can be seen in their creations, often featuring hojicha and roasted walnut toppings.

Nishijin, the traditional weaving district, is also a must-visit for bakery enthusiasts. Known for its quieter, residential vibe, Nishijin houses quaint shops that serve up heartwarming shokupan (Japanese milk bread) and anpan (sweet red bean buns), drawing heavily from Kyoto’s rich culinary heritage.

Finally, the charming area of Yamashina offers a unique bakery experience away from the city’s hustle. Surrounded by picturesque hills, these bakeries integrate local flavors such as Uji matcha and black sesame, creating a delightful harmony of taste and tradition.

Exploring Kyoto’s hidden bakery neighborhoods unveils a delicious journey through the city’s rich culture, blending the time-honored with the modern, one flavorful bite at a time.

Journey Through Silk and Spirit: Rediscovering Ikuo Hirayama at the Meito Art Museum

Fifteen years after his passing, the luminous legacy of Ikuo Hirayama continues to inspire. This autumn, the Meito Art Museum invites you to embark on a captivating journey through the artist’s vibrant world, exploring his enduring fascination with Buddhism, the Silk Road, and the rich tapestry of Japanese cultural heritage. Hirayama’s influence extended far beyond his canvases; he served twice as president of the Tokyo University of the Arts, nurturing generations of artists, and championed cultural preservation and international exchange, culminating in his receipt of the prestigious Order of Culture in 1998.

This exhibition, drawn from the esteemed collection of the SAGAWA ART MUSEUM (Moriyama City, Shiga Prefecture), showcases over 70 paintings and sketches, offering an unparalleled glimpse into Hirayama’s artistic vision. Don’t miss this opportunity to reconnect with the work of a true master.

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Exhibition Details:

• Dates: (Please note the specific dates of the exhibition were not included in the original draft and should be added here for clarity.)
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM)
• Closed: Mondays (Open on October 14 (Monday/holiday) and November 4 (Monday/compensatory holiday), Closed on October 15 (Tuesday) and November 5 (Tuesday))
• Venue: Meito Art Museum
• Address: (The address of the museum should be added here)

Admission:

• General: ¥1,100
• High School and University Students: ¥800
• Junior High School Students and Younger: Free
• Return Visit Discount: ¥300 off the second half of the exhibition with your ticket stub from the first half (one-time use only).
• Accessibility: Free admission for visitors with a disability certificate, and half price for one accompanying person.
• Group Discount: 20% off for groups of 20 or more.
• Discounts cannot be combined.

Contact:

• Tel: 0561-62-8884
• Fax: 0561-62-7411
• Website: http://www.meito.hayatele.co.jp

Getting There:

A short 5-minute walk from Irigaike Koen Station on the Aichi Rapid Transit Tobu Kyuryo Line (Linimo). Exit the station via Exit 2, turn right onto the sidewalk, and then right again at the Higashihazama intersection.

Who is Ikuo Hirayama?

Ikuo Hirayama was a renowned Japanese painter celebrated for his evocative depictions of historical and spiritual themes, particularly focusing on the cultural exchanges along the ancient Silk Road and Buddhist-inspired art. Born in Hiroshima in 1930, Hirayama survived the atomic bombing in 1945, an experience that profoundly influenced his artistic vision and commitment to peace. He graduated from the Tokyo Fine Arts School (now Tokyo University of the Arts) and became known for his "Nihonga" style—traditional Japanese painting using mineral pigments on paper or silk.

Hirayama’s work often draws on the rich cultural and historical connections between East and West, showcasing the archaeological and spiritual wonders of the Silk Road. His travels to regions such as Central Asia, Afghanistan, and India inspired a series of paintings that vividly capture Buddhist relics and landscapes, seeking to preserve and document cultural heritage. As a cultural ambassador, Hirayama was passionate about promoting international peace and understanding through art. Over his lifetime, he received numerous accolades, including Japan’s Order of Culture, for his contributions to art and heritage preservation. His works continue to be highly acclaimed for their spiritual depth and historical narrative, inviting audiences to explore a harmonious vision of cultural interconnectedness.