Author: Ben Jolley

Find Your Zen in the Heart of Tokyo with YAESU Wellness Weeks 2024

Escape the city bustle without leaving Tokyo at YAESU Wellness Weeks 2024. This unique event invites you to rejuvenate with a variety of free wellness programs hosted at the stunning YAESU TERRACE, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Yaesu district.

Event Highlights:

• Dates:
  • Wednesday, July 10th – Friday, July 12th, 2024
  • Tuesday, July 16th – Thursday, July 18th, 2024
• Location: Tokyo Midtown Yaesu, conveniently located near Tokyo Station.

Why You Should Attend:

YAESU Wellness Weeks offers a rare opportunity to unwind and recharge amidst the vibrant energy of Tokyo. Imagine practicing yoga with the cityscape stretched out before you or enjoying a relaxing meditation session as the sun sets over the horizon.

Stay Tuned for More Details:

Keep an eye out for program announcements and further details on the official Tokyo Midtown Yaesu website. Don’t miss this chance to experience a touch of tranquility in the heart of Tokyo!

Experience the Magic of TOKYO TOWER Washi LED Candle Night 2024

Prepare to be enchanted as Tokyo Tower sets the stage for a mesmerizing illumination event, the TOKYO TOWER Washi LED Candle Night 2024. This captivating spectacle will take place at the main entrance of the iconic landmark on Saturday, July 6th, and Sunday, July 7th, 2024.

Event Highlights:

• Dates: Saturday, July 6th – Sunday, July 7th, 2024
• Location: Tokyo Tower
• Nearest Station: Akabanebashi Station

This unique event beautifully blends tradition and modernity. Experience the warm glow of countless LED candles delicately encased in traditional Japanese washi paper. These illuminated wonders will be artfully arranged, creating a magical atmosphere at the base of the majestic Tokyo Tower. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the captivating charm of TOKYO TOWER Washi LED Candle Night 2024.

Immerse Yourself in Korean Culture at the Icheon Rice Culture Festival

Date: October 16th – 20th, 2024

Celebrate the heart of Korean cuisine at the Icheon Rice Culture Festival! This vibrant festival takes place in Icheon, a city renowned for producing some of the highest quality rice in Korea. With a diverse range of activities and events, the festival offers a unique opportunity for visitors of all ages to delve into Korean culture and traditions.

Experience the Journey of Rice

Witness the spectacle of the “2,000 Won for 2,000 Servings of Iron Pot Rice” event, where you can savor a generous portion of freshly cooked Icheon rice prepared in a massive iron pot. Don’t miss the creation of the awe-inspiring 600-meter-long rainbow Garaetteok (rice cake), a testament to the abundance of the harvest and the warmth of rural life.

Discover Korean Arts & Culture

Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural performances scheduled throughout the festival. Experience the energy of the opening and closing ceremonies, enjoy traditional Korean folk play (Madangguk), be entertained by captivating puppet shows, and appreciate the talents of local cultural arts groups.

Explore exhibitions showcasing the journey of Icheon rice from field to table, admire displays of agricultural artifacts, and discover the artistry of traditional Korean food and natural dyeing techniques. Capture picture-perfect memories at the festival’s beautifully designed photo zones, including a mesmerizing LED Milky Way and picturesque terraced rice paddy fields.

Engage & Participate

Indulge your taste buds with free samples of freshly made puffed rice and traditional Korean sweets. Roll up your sleeves and participate in hands-on activities at the Icheon Rice Culture School, where you can try your hand at rice planting, threshing, and straw craft workshops. Immerse yourself in the past with a visit to a traditional Korean school. Engage in friendly competitions like tug-of-war and test your skills at Yut Nori, a traditional Korean board game.

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the spirit of Korea at the Icheon Rice Culture Festival!

Event Details:

• Location: 48, Gongwon-ro, Icheon-si, Gyeonggi-do
• Admission: Free
• Contact: +82-31-644-4135~7
• Website: http://www.ricefestival.or.kr
• Instagram: –

Siheung Youth Club Festival: A Celebration of Talent and Community

Mark your calendars! On October 19, 2024, the Siheung Youth Club Festival returns, promising a day of vibrant energy, youthful spirit, and community engagement. Join over 7,500 young individuals from 532 Siheung youth clubs as they showcase their passions and talents.

Discover the Diverse World of Siheung’s Youth

Whether your interests lie in the arts, social activism, technology, or sports, the Siheung Youth Club Festival has something for everyone. Explore a wide range of activities and immerse yourself in the energy of this exciting event:

• Interactive Exploration: Discover 391 interactive booths representing diverse clubs and activities.
• Performance Extravaganza: Be captivated by 141 performances showcasing the talents of young artists, musicians, dancers, and more.
• Live Music Buzz: Enjoy the lively atmosphere created by buskers stationed throughout the festival grounds.
• Laser Tag Challenge: Test your skills and strategy in a thrilling laser tag survival game.
• E-sports Arena: Cheer for your favorite teams in the exhilarating League of Legends tournament.
• Festive Fun: Capture memories at photo zones, share your thoughts and messages, and celebrate the spirit of the festival.

Event Details

• Date: October 19, 2024
• Location: Siheung City Hall, 20, Sicheong-ro, Siheung-si, Gyeonggi-do
• Admission: Free

Connect and Learn More

• Contact: 031-315-1890
• Instagram: [Link to Instagram Page](Insert Instagram Link Here)
• Website: Siheung Youth Club Festival

Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the creativity, passion, and community spirit of Siheung’s youth!

Escape the Heat and Immerse Yourself in the Ham Baek Mountain Wildflower Festival

📅 July 27th – August 4th, 2024

Escape the sweltering summer heat and treat yourself to a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers at the Ham Baek Mountain Wildflower Festival. Held at Manhangjae, South Korea’s highest paved mountain pass (1,330m above sea level), you’ll be greeted by temperatures 10℃ cooler than the city and breathtaking panoramic views.

This natural amphitheater, nestled amidst cool, misty air and dappled sunlight filtering through ancient larch trees, boasts over 350 wildflower species.

Festival Highlights:

Immerse Yourself in Nature:

• Opening Ceremony (July 29th): Witness the traditional Ham Baek Mountain Guardian Mountain Ritual, a captivating ceremony for peace and prosperity.
• Guided Nature Walks: Explore the mountain’s diverse flora and fauna with experienced guides.
• Forest Concerts: Relax and enjoy live music performances surrounded by the beauty of nature.
• Pop-Up Forest Library: Discover a haven for bookworms amidst the trees.
• Water Play Areas: Cool off and have fun in the refreshing mountain water.
• Local Food Stalls: Indulge in delicious local cuisine and refreshments.

Experience Art and Culture:

• Ham Baek Mountain Wildflower Photo Exhibition: Admire stunning photography capturing the beauty of the wildflowers.
• Wildflower Arrangements & Succulents: Purchase unique and beautiful floral arrangements and succulents.
• LED Wildflower, Diffuser, & Handmade Soap Exhibition: Discover local crafts and artistry.

Delight Your Taste Buds:

• Wildflower-Themed Meals: Savor the flavors of the mountain with dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients.
• Outdoor Cafe: Sip on refreshing drinks while enjoying the scenic views.
• Exhibition Hall Cafe: Unwind and refuel at the cafe located within the exhibition hall.
• Forest Cafe: Experience the tranquility of the forest while enjoying a cup of herbal tea.

Family Fun for Everyone:

• Tiny Post Office: Write letters to loved ones (to be delivered a year later!)
• Forest Water Play Zone: Let the little ones splash and play in the refreshing mountain water.
• Family-Friendly Guided Forest Walks: Embark on guided walks suitable for all ages.

Special Events Not to Be Missed:

• GoHan Coal Market & Grilled Alley: Immerse yourself in local culture and savor delicious grilled dishes.
• Jeongamsa Temple Events (August 4th-6th): Witness the temple’s reconstruction ceremony, memorial service, performances, mountain music concert, Diversity Day, and installation art exhibition.
• Starlight Journey: Gaze at the stars through telescopes and share stories under the night sky.
• Ham Baek Mountain Sunrise: Witness the breathtaking sunrise from the mountaintop.
• Samtan Art Mine: Explore a unique art space housed in a former coal mine.
• Walking the Coal Road: Embark on a scenic trekking course through the village.

Creative Workshops:

• LED Wildflower Craft Workshops: Unleash your creativity and create beautiful LED wildflower crafts.
• Diffuser & Soap Making Classes: Learn the art of crafting fragrant diffusers and soaps.
• Painting Sessions: Express your artistic side by painting mugs, tumblers, and flower pots.

Musical Interludes:

• Forest Concert: Enjoy live music performances in a serene forest setting.
• Busking Events: Experience the vibrant street music scene in the city.

Closing Ceremony (August 4th): Celebrate the festival’s end with a special performance by local residents and a raffle drawing.

Don’t miss the GoHan Alley Garden Expo and the nostalgic Coal Briquette Night Market in nearby Gohan-eup!

📍 Location: 75 Gohan 2-gil, Gohan-eup, Jeongseon-gun, Gangwon-do
💰 Admission: Free
📞 Contact: +82-33-592-5455
⭐️ Instagram: [Instagram](insert Instagram link here)
🖥️ Website: Ham Baek Mountain Wildflower Festival

Immerse Yourself in Golden Hues at the Hongcheon Golden Barley Festival

🗓️ Dates: July 26th – August 18th, 2024

Prepare to be captivated by the shimmering beauty of the Hongcheon Golden Barley Festival, an annual celebration held in Hongcheon, South Korea. From late July to early August, immerse yourself in a world of golden barley fields, tantalizing aromas, and engaging cultural experiences.

Whether you’re a photography enthusiast seeking breathtaking backdrops or a foodie eager to savor unique barley-based delicacies, the festival offers something for everyone.

Festival Highlights:

1. Grand Opening Day Festivities

Kick off the festival with a day filled with vibrant performances, friendly competitions, and hands-on activities:

• Main Events: Witness the creativity of the Mugunghwa (Rose of Sharon) Drawing Contest and the competitive spirit of the Hongcheon River Kayak Competition.
• Free Activities: Engage your artistic side with Mugunghwa Sapling Bouquet Making or try your hand at crafting traditional Barley Rice Cakes.
• Stage Performances: Enjoy the lively Opening Ceremony & Celebration Performance, savor the flavors of local craft beers at the Craft Beer Tasting, and partake in the communal Barley Rice Cake Sharing Event.

2. Unforgettable Experiences Throughout the Festival

(1) Immersive Programs:

• Paddle Through Paradise: Embark on a scenic kayaking adventure down the Hongcheon River, surrounded by the beauty of the barley fields.
• Become a Brewmaster: Delve into the art of beer making with the Barley Village Beer Brewing Experience, learning the techniques behind crafting unique barley-based brews.

(2) Program Schedule:

• Evenings Alive with Festivities: Join the fun every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 6:00 PM, July 26th – August 18th.
• Free Experiences: Enjoy complimentary access to experience programs from 4:00 PM on July 26th, 27th, and 28th.

Plan Your Visit:

📍 Location: 126, Bambeol-gil, Seomyeon, Hongcheon-gun, Gangwon-do

💰 Admission: Free

📞 Contact: +82-33-436-8928

⭐️ Instagram: [Insert Instagram Handle Here]

🖥️ Website: Hongcheon Golden Barley Festival Official Website

Experience the Soul of Korean Dance: The 7th Annual Yeongnam Dance Festival

🗓️ Mark your calendars: July 13 – August 10, 2024

Prepare to be captivated by the beauty and power of Korean dance as the Yeongnam Dance Festival returns for its seventh year. Under the theme "Dance is Yeongnam," this vibrant festival promises a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of Korean dance traditions.

What Awaits You:

• Journey to the Roots: Immerse yourself in the artistry of traditional Korean dance, witnessing masterful performances by renowned artists who breathe life into ancient traditions.
• Witness Innovation in Motion: Experience the evolution of dance with mesmerizing contemporary works that push boundaries and ignite the imagination.
• A Grand Opening Spectacle: The festival commences with a breathtaking performance by the National Busan Gugak Center Dance Company. Titled "Yeongnam Essence," this special presentation pays homage to the enduring legacies of dance legends Ha Bo-kyung, Jeong Sun-nam, Kim Su-ak, and Hwang Mu-bong.
• Unveiling the Rhythms of Yeongnam: Embark on a captivating exploration of Yeongnam’s distinctive rhythmic traditions with "Dance Music," an insightful lecture-concert featuring expert commentary by Hwang Min-wang, interwoven with captivating performances.
• Celebrating Trailblazers: Join in honoring Chumpea Bae Gim Sae, Busan’s pioneering private dance company founded in 1985, as they grace the stage with a special performance entitled "Yeongnam Dance Exhibition."

Schedule of Events:

• July 13 (Saturday), 5:00 PM: Grand Opening Performance
• July 18 (Thursday), 24 (Wednesday), 26 (Friday), August 1 (Thursday), 8 (Thursday), 7:30 PM: Korean Traditional Dance Performances
• July 20 (Saturday), 5:00 PM: Korean Dance Choreographers Showcase
• July 27 (Saturday), 6:00 PM: Yeongnam Dance Fringe Outdoor Performance
• July 31 (Wednesday), 7:30 PM: "Dance Music" Lecture-Concert
• August 3 (Saturday), 5:00 PM: Yeongnam Music and Dance
• August 6 (Tuesday), 7:30 PM: "Yeongnam Dance Exhibition" by Chumpea Bae Gim Sae
• August 10 (Saturday), 5:00 PM: Closing Performance
• July 13, 20, August 3, 10: Yeongnam Dance Festival Busking "Gugak-ro" Outdoor Performances

Ticket Information:

• Grand Theater: S Seat ₩20,000, A Seat ₩10,000
• Small Theater: All Seats ₩10,000

Location:

• 2, Gugak-ro, Busanjin-gu, Busan

Connect with Us:

• Phone: +82-51-811-0114
• Instagram: Follow us on Instagram @busan.gugak2008
• Website: Visit the official Yeongnam Dance Festival website here

Get Moving at the Anyang Dance Festival 2024!

Prepare to be swept away by the rhythm of the Anyang Dance Festival, taking place from September 27th to 29th, 2024, in the heart of Anyang, South Korea. Pyeongchon Central Park and Samdeok Park will transform into vibrant stages celebrating the universal language of dance.

Since its inception in 2000, this annual festival has become a cherished tradition, drawing over 300,000 visitors each year. More than just a celebration of dance, it’s a testament to the power of community, where locals and visitors unite to experience a diverse tapestry of performances and activities.

This year’s theme, "Walk, Run, Dance!", is an exhilarating invitation to embrace movement in all its forms. The festival aims to uncover the hidden dance potential within every individual, providing a dynamic platform for both seasoned professionals and enthusiastic amateurs to share their talent and passion.

Experience the Pulse of the Festival:

• Mesmerizing Performances: Prepare to be captivated by renowned dancers and musicians gracing the main stage each evening with their artistry.
• Environmental Harmony: Engage with thought-provoking programs that raise awareness about pressing environmental concerns, including climate change.
• Community Spotlight: Witness the diverse talents of Anyang residents as they take center stage throughout the festival, showcasing the heart and soul of the community.
• Interactive Delights: Immerse yourself in a variety of hands-on activities and workshops, offering something for all ages and interests.
• Flea Market Treasures: Discover unique crafts and support local artisans at the bustling flea market, a treasure trove of one-of-a-kind finds.
• K-POP Dance Competition (Crown Competition): Feel the energy surge as talented dancers battle it out in a K-POP remake all-genre performance competition, showcasing their skills and creativity.
• Street Dance Showdown: Experience the raw talent and electrifying energy of street dancers at the "Stain to Groove" dance battle, where passion ignites the stage.
• Dance Workshops: Learn from acclaimed choreographers through engaging workshops, offering a unique opportunity to refine your skills or try something new.
• And much more! The festival promises a vibrant tapestry of exhibitions, participatory programs, and exciting surprises, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all.

Mark Your Calendars:

• Opening Ceremony: Friday, September 27th
• Closing Ceremony: Sunday, September 29th

Location:

Pyeongchon Central Park Management Office, 149, Gwanpyeong-ro, Dongan-gu, Anyang-si, Gyeonggi-do

Admission:

Free!

Connect and Learn More:

• Phone: +82-31-687-0545
• Instagram: @anyang_dance_festival
• Website: Anyang Dance Festival

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the joy of dance and experience the vibrant spirit of Anyang!