Discover the Flavors of Kumamoto: A Culinary Journey with Kensamu (November 13th-18th)

Ready to tantalize your taste buds? From November 13th to 18th, embark on a delectable journey through the culinary landscape of Kumamoto Prefecture, the "Land of Fire and Water," at the Hanshin Umeda Main Store’s Shokusai Terrace. Guided by Kumamoto expert and popular blogger, Kensamu, this food trip promises an unforgettable experience for every foodie.

What awaits you?

Prepare for a symphony of flavors, featuring Kumamoto’s most celebrated dishes and exciting new culinary creations making their Osaka debut:

• Akaushi-don: Indulge in the rich, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of Akaushi beef, a rare delicacy, served atop a bed of fluffy rice. This specialty comes from Akaushi Shokudo Yokayoka, nestled within the vibrant Tazaki Market, known as "Kumamoto’s Kitchen."
• Nodogoshi Namamen: Experience the refreshing sensation of this popular noodle dish from Fuki Seimen Kenkyujo, a third-generation ramen shop run by Seiichiro Murakami.
• Niramenko: Discover the unique flavors of Kosa Town’s newest specialty: minced meat cutlets infused with locally grown Chinese chives.
• Kinkamanjū: Treat yourself to these delectable manjū, a rising star in Kumamoto’s confectionery scene, making their first appearance in Osaka.

From savory bowls and comforting noodles to tantalizing side dishes and sweet treats, this event offers a diverse culinary adventure that will satisfy every craving.

Meet Kumamon!

Mark your calendars! On Wednesday, November 13th, at 11:00 AM, Kumamon, Kumamoto Prefecture’s beloved Sales and Happiness Manager, will grace the Shokusai Terrace with his presence for approximately 30 minutes. Rumor has it he’ll be sporting a special costume just for this occasion! Don’t miss this rare opportunity to meet this iconic character.

As a testament to the solidarity between disaster-stricken areas, the event will also feature a PR booth for both Kumamoto and Ishikawa Prefectures.

*Please note that some products may contain ingredients sourced from outside Kumamoto Prefecture.
*Photo Credit: KKR Hotel Kumamoto

Event Details:

• Dates: November 13th (Wednesday) – November 18th (Monday), 2024
• Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily
• Location: Hanshin Umeda Main Store, 1st Floor Shokusai Terrace (1-13-13 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka City)
• Admission: Free
• Website: https://web.hh-online.jp/hanshin/contents/str/20241113.html

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What is Kumamoto known for in Japanese cuisine?

Kumamoto, located on the island of Kyushu in Japan, is renowned for several distinctive culinary specialties. One of the most famous is "basashi," or raw horse meat sashimi, which is celebrated for its delicate flavor and tender texture. Kumamoto is also known for "karashi renkon," which is lotus root stuffed with mustard miso, a dish that combines a spicy kick with a savory filling. Additionally, the region is famous for its high-quality ramen, particularly "Kumamoto ramen," characterized by a rich, creamy pork broth and the use of garlic chips. These dishes, among others, highlight the unique and rich culinary heritage of Kumamoto Prefecture.

Blue Cave SHIBUYA: Immerse Yourself in a Winter Wonderland of Light

Experience the Magic of "Blue Grotto – THE SNOW DOME -" at Japan’s Largest Illumination Event

Get ready to be mesmerized by the dazzling display of "Blue Grotto SHIBUYA," Japan’s largest illumination event, returning for its 10th anniversary with a spectacular new centerpiece: the "Blue Grotto – THE SNOW DOME -." This massive, luminous spherical balloon will captivate visitors with its breathtaking scale and enchanting projected imagery, creating a truly unforgettable winter experience.

This year’s event promises to be even more magical than ever before, building on the legacy of "Nakameguro Blue Grotto" and its cumulative 15 million visitors. The "Blue Grotto – THE SNOW DOME -" located on Yoyogi Park’s Zelkova Tree-lined Avenue, adds a unique twist to the already stunning display. The snow globe-themed projections dancing across the dome’s surface will evoke the wonder and beauty of Christmas, offering captivating visuals both before and after the main illumination begins.

As dusk descends, prepare to be transported to a fantastical realm bathed in the soft glow of blue light. "Blue Grotto SHIBUYA" has become a cherished winter tradition, transforming the city into a breathtaking spectacle. This year, the shimmering blue expanse promises to create another season of unforgettable memories. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic and create a special moment that will stay with you long after the lights fade.

Event Details:

• Location & Access:

  • Shibuya Koen-dori: Shibuya Station
  • Yoyogi Park: Meiji-jingumae ‘Harajuku’ Station / Harajuku Station / Yoyogi-Koen Station / Yoyogi-Hachiman Station

• Venue: Shibuya Koen-dori to Yoyogi Park Zelkova Tree-lined Avenue (approximately 900m)

• Dates: December 6th (Fri), 2024 – December 25th (Wed), 2024

• Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

• Official Website: https://shibuya-aonodokutsu.jp/

• Weather Notice: Opening hours and event details are subject to change due to rain or unforeseen circumstances. Please check the official website for the latest information.

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Sparkle and Shine at Nagoya Lucent Tower’s Winter Illumination

Get ready to be dazzled! The Nagoya Lucent Tower is transforming into a winter wonderland with a vibrant and dynamic illumination display. This year’s show promises a captivating spectacle of light and color, featuring regularly scheduled illumination shows that will take your breath away.

What Makes This Year’s Illumination Special?

While details on what sets this year’s display apart are scarce, the promise of a "dynamic and colorful" presentation suggests an enhanced experience compared to previous years. Keep an eye out for more updates as the event draws closer! We’ll be sure to share any news on specific themes, new lighting technologies, or special show elements as soon as it’s released.

Featured Highlight:

Nagoya Illumination Feature 2023-2024

Plan Your Visit:

Make the most of your visit with this essential information:

• Illumination Hours: Daily from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM (17:00～23:00)
• Location: Nagoya Lucent Tower
• Contact: 052-589-0631
• Website: http://www.lucent-tower.jp/
• Getting There: A short 5-minute walk from the Sakura-dori Exit of JR Nagoya Station.

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Experience the Magic of Towers Gate Tower Christmas

Get ready to be dazzled! The Towers Gate Tower Christmas returns to Nagoya, bringing with it one of the region’s largest Christmas trees, shining brightly under the theme "The Wonder Gift of Christmas."🎁 This isn’t just any Christmas tree – it’s a vibrant symbol of holiday joy, adorned with a striking red ribbon and illuminated in a breathtaking display of light and color. The "Linear GATE Vision" combined with a corridor of light creates a truly unforgettable spectacle that will surprise and delight.

Nagoya Illumination Feature 2023-2024

This stunning display is easily accessible, located directly at JR Nagoya Station, making it the perfect addition to your holiday plans. Imagine experiencing this magical atmosphere after a day of shopping or sightseeing!

Here’s what you need to know:

• Illumination Hours: 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM (Night version starts at 5:00 PM) Catch the daytime sparkle or the full magic of the nighttime illumination.
• Location: Directly connected to JR "Nagoya" Station – no complicated directions or transfers needed!
• Learn More: https://www.towers.jp/

Planning your visit?

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Experience the Magic of Autumn at Showa Kinen Park

Immerse yourself in the vibrant hues of fall at Showa Kinen Park’s Yellow Leaves & Autumn Leaves Festival and Autumn Night Walk. Crisp air, fiery foliage, and enchanting illuminations await you. Whether you prefer a daytime stroll amidst colorful trees or a magical evening bathed in light, Showa Kinen Park has the perfect autumn experience for you.

Discover Your Autumn Oasis

During the Yellow Leaves & Autumn Leaves Festival, explore the park’s numerous foliage hotspots. Find your perfect spot to relax and savor the beauty of the season. From golden gingko trees to crimson maples, every corner of the park offers a unique autumnal vista.

Wander Through an Illuminated Wonderland

As dusk descends, the Autumn Night Walk unveils a different kind of magic. The "Katara no Icho Namiki" (Ginkgo Avenue of Conversations) glows with a golden aura, while the reflections of the illuminated night scenery dance on the water’s surface in the "Japanese Garden." Follow the park paths, adorned with captivating light displays, and feel transported to another world.

Event Details

• Location: Showa Kinen Park
• Nearest Stations: Nishi-Tachikawa, Tachikawa, Tachikawa-Kita
• Address: 3173 Midoricho, Tachikawa City, Tokyo 〒190-0014
• Map
• Autumn Night Walk Area: Select areas including the Japanese Garden and Katara no Icho Namiki.
• Dates: November 2nd – December 1st, 2024
• Park Hours: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM (Lights out at 8:30 PM)
• Illumination Period: November 2nd – December 1st, 2024
• Illumination Hours: 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM (Free admission to the Japanese Garden on October 31st and November 1st during pre-illumination.)
• Admission:
  • Adults (High School and above): ¥450
  • Children (Junior High and below): Free
  • Seniors (65 and older): ¥210
  • Separate fees apply for the Japanese Garden after 4:30 PM.
• Contact: 042-528-1751
• Rain or Shine Event

Important Note: Event details are subject to change. Please visit the official website for the latest information.

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