Needle Festival at Kamimikoromo Shrine: A Celebration of Craft and Connection

Kamimikoromo Shrine, a subsidiary shrine within the larger Wakamiya Hachimansha complex, is renowned as a place to seek success in matters of the heart. This reputation is further cemented by the annual Hari-kuyo Festival, a unique event that blends traditional craftsmanship with the pursuit of meaningful relationships.

Hari-kuyo Festival: Honoring Needles and Weaving Bonds

Held each year on February 8th, the Hari-kuyo Festival, also known as the Needle Festival, is a ceremony dedicated to expressing gratitude for the service of sewing needles. Participants show their appreciation by gently embedding their used needles into soft tofu or konnyaku, a traditional Japanese jelly. This act symbolizes the culmination of countless hours spent in the art of sewing, while simultaneously offering a prayer for the continued improvement of one’s skills.

Beyond its practical significance, the Hari-kuyo Festival carries a deeper, more romantic meaning. The act of sewing, stitch by stitch, is seen as a metaphor for the careful cultivation of relationships. Attendees take this opportunity to reflect on their feelings for loved ones, pray for successful matches, and hope for enduring bonds. This connection between needlework and love is further emphasized by the shrine’s enshrined deity, Kinunui no Mikoto, who is believed to enhance handicraft skills and foster happiness through the forging of strong connections.

A Vibrant Marche: Complementing the Festival

Adding to the festive atmosphere, a lively marché will be held concurrently with the Hari-kuyo Festival. This market offers a diverse array of goods and experiences, including food trucks serving delectable treats, stalls brimming with fresh, locally-sourced vegetables, and vendors showcasing a variety of handmade crafts. The marché provides an excellent opportunity to explore the local culture and find unique souvenirs, all while enjoying the vibrant energy of the festival.

For the most up-to-date information regarding the event, please refer to the official social media channels of Wakamiya Hachimansha:

• Wakamiya Hachimansha Official Instagram
• Wakamiya Hachimansha Official Facebook

Wakamiya Hachimansha: A Historical Landmark

Wakamiya Hachimansha, the parent shrine of Kamimikoromo Shrine, is a significant historical site in Nagoya. Established in 1610 by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the shrine was designated as the general guardian shrine of the city. It enshrines Emperor Nintoku, Emperor Ojin, and Takenouchi no Sukune. In addition to the Hari-kuyo Festival, Wakamiya Hachimansha hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the annual Wakamiya Festival held on May 15th and 16th.

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Event Details

• Date: February 8, 2025
• Time:
  • Hari-kuyo Festival: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Marche: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Location: Kamimikoromo Shrine (within Wakamiya Hachimansha)
• Contact: Wakamiya Hachimansha
• TEL: 052-241-0810
• Access:
  • 7-minute walk from Osu Kannon Station on the Tsurumai Subway Line
  • 5-minute walk from Yabacho Station on the Meijo Subway Line

Planning Your Visit

For those planning to attend the Hari-kuyo Festival and explore the surrounding area, a variety of accommodation options are available. You can find a suitable hotel near the event through this link: 🛏️ See hotels near the event.

What is Hari-kuyo (Needle Festival)?

Hari-kuyo, or the Needle Festival, is a Japanese ceremony held annually on February 8th to honor old and broken needles. This tradition reflects a cultural appreciation for craftsmanship and the tools that make it possible. During the festival, seamstresses, tailors, and craft enthusiasts gather at shrines, such as Nagoya’s Kamimikoromo Shrine, to pay tribute to the needles that have served them over the past year.

Participants bring their worn-out needles and place them into a soft block of tofu or konnyaku, symbolizing a respectful retirement for these tools. This act acknowledges the service of the needles and provides a moment for reflection and gratitude for the skills they have supported. Hari-kuyo is not just a farewell to old tools; it celebrates the connection between artisans and their craft, encouraging mindfulness and respect for the materials and instruments that aid their work.

Hankyu Valentine’s Chocolate Expo 2025: A Confluence of Cocoa

From January 20th to February 14th, 2025, the Hankyu Umeda Main Store in Osaka will transform into a veritable chocolate emporium, hosting what is slated to be Japan’s most expansive chocolate festival. This event promises an immersive experience, showcasing approximately 3,000 varieties of chocolate from 300 domestic and international brands.

A Multi-Sensory Chocolate Experience

The expo extends beyond a simple marketplace, offering a deep dive into the world of chocolate. The main venue, located on the 9th floor, will be complemented by satellite shops throughout the building, effectively creating a "Hankyu Chocolate Department Store." Attendees can expect a diverse array of offerings, including:

• Unique Tablet Chocolates: Discover a wide selection of artisanal tablet chocolates, each with its own distinct flavor profile and origin story.
• Cacao Adventurers’ Corner: Delve into the narratives of the individuals involved in the cacao industry, gaining insight into the journey from bean to bar.
• Freshly Baked Chocolate Sweets: Indulge in the aroma and taste of freshly baked chocolate confections, prepared on-site for immediate enjoyment.
• Bonbon Chocolate Tasting Counter: Savor individual bonbons, allowing for a nuanced appreciation of each piece’s craftsmanship and flavor.

Beyond the 9th Floor: A Building-Wide Celebration

The 9th floor’s Festive Square will feature specialized areas, including:

• Cup Ice Cream Extravaganza: Choose from 50 varieties of cup ice cream, representing 19 different brands.
• Chocolate Sandwich Showcase: Explore a collection of approximately 240 types of chocolate sandwiches, a testament to the versatility of this beloved treat.
• Macaron Laboratory: Immerse yourself in the delicate world of macarons, with 78 varieties from 17 brands on display.

The festivities extend beyond the 9th floor, with each cafe from the 4th to the 12th floors offering limited-time Valentine’s Day parfaits. Additionally, talk events featuring renowned chefs and chocolatiers will provide further insight into the artistry and passion behind chocolate creation.

Supporting Local Producers: A Focus on Ishikawa and Noto

The expo will also highlight chocolates crafted with ingredients from the Ishikawa and Noto regions. Notably, attendees can sample bonbons made with sake from Noto Peninsula breweries, as well as those featuring "Tsuru to Fuku," a Junmai Daiginjo sake collaboratively brewed using sake rice salvaged from a brewery in Oku-Noto that was impacted by a recent earthquake. This initiative offers a tangible way to support the recovery efforts in the region through the enjoyment of these unique confections.

Event Details

• Dates: January 20th (Monday) – February 14th (Friday), 2025
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM on each floor (excluding restaurant floors)
  • The 9th floor (excluding cafes) and the 10th floor "Umeda Souq" central area will close at 7:00 PM on February 14th.
  • Koto Coto Stage 111/112 and the Kids Event Space on the 11th floor will close at 6:00 PM on February 14th.
• Location: Hankyu Umeda Main Store, 9th floor and other event spaces on each floor (8-7 Kakudacho, Kita-ku, Osaka)
• Admission: Free
• Contact: 06-6361-1381 (main)
• Website: Hankyu Valentine’s Chocolate Expo 2025

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What is Hankyu?

Hankyu is a Japanese department store chain, originating in Osaka, known for its diverse range of high-quality products. It serves as a cultural and commercial center, drawing both locals and tourists. The store is notable for events like the annual Valentine’s Chocolate Expo, featuring a variety of chocolates from different countries. Hankyu combines traditional Japanese hospitality with contemporary shopping experiences, maintaining a significant presence in the retail industry.

Delicious Botanical Art at the Matsuzakaya Museum: Stories of Plants that Enrich Our Cuisine

During the 18th and 19th centuries, as Britain modernized through the Industrial Revolution, the plants and food ingredients imported from around the world captivated people and greatly expanded the diversity of British food culture. This exhibition, held at the Matsuzakaya Art Museum, delves into this fascinating period of culinary and botanical exploration.

With the cooperation of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, which is known for housing the world’s largest botanical art collection of over 200,000 items, this exhibition showcases approximately 200 works. These include botanical art of vegetables, fruits, herbs, and spices drawn in the 18th and 19th centuries, along with furniture, tableware, and recipes that adorned dining tables of the era. The exhibition offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of art, science, and gastronomy during a time of significant cultural change.

The exhibition will be held at the Matsuzakaya Art Museum, located on the 7th floor of the South Building of the Matsuzakaya Nagoya Store. It runs from January 3, 2025 (Friday) to February 9, 2025 (Sunday), giving visitors ample time to immerse themselves in the world of botanical art. The museum is open daily from 10:00 to 18:00, with the last admission at 17:30, ensuring that even those with busy schedules can find a convenient time to visit.

Admission to the exhibition is priced at 1,200 yen for the general public, with a discounted rate of 1,000 yen available for advance or group bookings. High school and university students can enjoy the exhibition for 900 yen, or 700 yen with the discount. Notably, junior high school students and younger are granted free entry, making this an accessible cultural experience for families. For those interested in further discounts, the Matsuzakaya Art Museum website provides detailed information on various offers.

The Matsuzakaya Art Museum is conveniently located and easily accessible by public transportation. Visitors can take the Meijo Subway Line to Yabacho Station, which offers a direct connection to the museum via an underground passage from Exits 5 and 6. Alternatively, those arriving at Sakae Station on the Higashiyama and Meijo Subway Lines can reach the museum with a short 5-minute walk south from Exit 16.

For any inquiries, the Matsuzakaya Art Museum can be contacted at TEL: 050-1782-7000.

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Dates: January 3, 2025 (Friday) – February 9, 2025 (Sunday)

Hours: 10:00-18:00 (Last admission at 17:30)

Venue: Matsuzakaya Art Museum (Matsuzakaya Nagoya Store, South Building 7th floor)

Fee: Paid

Fee Details:

• General: 1,200 yen (1,000 yen with advance/discount)
• High school/University students: 900 yen (700 yen with advance/discount)
• Junior high school students and younger: Free
• Prices in parentheses ( ) are advance/discount prices.
• For information on Matsuzakaya’s various discount offers, please check the Matsuzakaya Art Museum website.

Contact: Matsuzakaya Art Museum, TEL: 050-1782-7000 (Main)

Access:

• Yabacho Station (Meijo Subway Line): Directly connected to the underground passage (Exits 5 & 6)
• Sakae Station (Higashiyama and Meijo Subway Lines): 5-minute walk south from Exit 16

What is Matsuzakaya Museum?

The Matsuzakaya Museum, situated in Nagoya, Japan, is a cultural institution focused on art and history. Initially part of the Matsuzakaya department store, one of Japan’s oldest retail establishments, the museum has become a notable cultural venue. It hosts a variety of exhibitions, including traditional Japanese art, contemporary pieces, and international displays.

The museum is recognized for its exhibitions that connect historical and modern themes. For instance, "Delicious Botanical Art" highlights the beauty of botanical illustrations while examining their historical and cultural contexts. Such exhibitions offer visitors a chance to engage with art in an educational manner, enhancing their understanding of the links between art, nature, and history.

New Year’s Buffet at Hotel Metropolitan

Exquisite Japanese, Western, and Chinese Dishes to Celebrate the New Year

Hotel Metropolitan, conveniently located near Ikebukuro Station, will be holding a special "New Year’s Buffet" from January 1st to January 5th, 2025. This buffet offers a luxurious spread of Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisine, providing a unique opportunity to indulge in a variety of flavors to welcome the new year.

One of the highlights of the buffet is the "Juicy Roast Beef, Low-Temperature Cooked at 64℃," a signature dish of the hotel’s restaurant "Crossdine." For this special occasion, the roast beef will be prepared using Japanese Wagyu beef, known for its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Guests can watch as this premium roast beef is carved right before their eyes, adding a touch of spectacle to the dining experience.

In addition to the Wagyu roast beef, the buffet will feature an extensive selection of dishes, including "Shark Fin Ramen" and "Nigirizushi," along with a wide array of other Japanese, Western, and Chinese delicacies. A dessert selection will also be available, ensuring a sweet ending to your meal. This diverse menu caters to a wide range of palates, making it an ideal choice for families and groups with varying preferences.

Compared to a similar New Year’s buffet held at the same hotel in 2024, the price for adults has increased by ¥500 for lunch and ¥700 for dinner. Despite this increase, the inclusion of Wagyu beef in the signature roast beef dish represents a significant upgrade in quality, justifying the price adjustment.

Event Details

• Venue: Hotel Metropolitan (Nearest Station: Ikebukuro Station)
• Address: 1-6-1 Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 171-8505 (MAP)
• Event Period: January 1st, 2025 (Wednesday/Holiday) – January 5th, 2025 (Sunday)
• Time:
  • Lunch: ① 11:30 a.m. – 1:10 p.m. / ② 1:45 p.m. – 3:25 p.m. (100 minutes, 2 seatings)
  • Dinner: ① 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. / ② 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. (120 minutes, 2 seatings)
• Price:
  • Lunch: Adult: ¥5,500 / Senior (65 and over): ¥5,000 / Child (Elementary School): ¥2,600 / Child (4-6 years old): ¥1,300
  • Dinner: Adult: ¥7,500 / Senior (65 and over): ¥6,700 / Child (Elementary School): ¥3,000 / Child (4-6 years old): ¥1,500
• Official Website: https://ikebukuro.metropolitan.jp/restaurant/list/crossdine/menu/new%5Fyear%5FSP%5Fbuffet.html

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

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What is Ikebukuro?

Ikebukuro is a district in the northwestern part of Tokyo, Japan, known for its lively atmosphere. It is a significant commercial and entertainment center, drawing both locals and tourists. At its heart is Ikebukuro Station, one of Tokyo’s busiest railway hubs, offering convenient access to various city areas.

The district is notable for its shopping opportunities, including large department stores like Seibu and Tobu, and the Sunshine City complex, which features an aquarium, a planetarium, and an observation deck with city views. Ikebukuro is also a cultural center, home to theaters, live music venues, and art galleries.

Dining in Ikebukuro is diverse, with options ranging from traditional Japanese dishes to international cuisine. The area is well-known for its themed cafes and active nightlife, appealing to both young people and families.

In summary, Ikebukuro is a vibrant part of Tokyo, combining modern attractions with traditional elements, making it a suitable location for events such as the Hotel Metropolitan’s New Year’s Buffet.

Usher in 2025 with Festivities at Isetan Shinjuku!

Kick off the new year in style at the Isetan Shinjuku New Year’s Festival 2025! Enjoy vibrant lion dances, delicious festival food, unique Isetan-patterned ema (prayer tablets), and exciting dream projects featuring Yoshimoto comedians.

This year’s dream projects offer truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences, including the "Isetan Yoshimoto New Year’s Gift Dream Project" with prizes like a personally cooked meal by Robert Baba and an exclusive "sweets assortment" curated by Horujuku Tanabe. There’s even a "Summer Special Project" with a chance to win a 3-night stay at the Disneyland Hotel and 6 days of baseball action at Dodger Stadium & Angel Stadium!

The main event, "New Year’s Festival 2025 – Start the New Year at ISETAN SHINJUKU -", takes place on the 6th floor of the Main Building. Get ready for a festive atmosphere complete with a dynamic lion dance parade, games, gourmet food stalls, and the chance to write your wishes on original ema.

Event Highlights:

Lion Dance Performance by "Edo Daikagura":

• Dates & Times:
  • January 2nd (Thursday): 3:00 PM~ (approx. 30 minutes)
  • January 3rd (Friday): 11:00 AM~ & 3:00 PM~ (approx. 30 minutes each)
• Route: Starts at the 1st Floor Main Entrance and proceeds to the 6th Floor Event Space (Baby/Children’s Clothing & Goods).

Make a Wish on a Limited-Edition Ema:

• Secure one of only 200 New Year’s Festival Original Ema for just ¥301.

Festival Gourmet:

• Details to be announced – check the official website for updates.

Digital Target Shooting:

• Participation: Mitsukoshi Isetan App Members Only
• Fee: Free

Digital First Calligraphy of the Year:

• Participation: Mitsukoshi Isetan App Members Only
• Fee: Free

[MI Card Members Only] Isetan Yoshimoto New Year’s Gift Dream Project:

• Dream Project 1: "Robert Baba will cook for you"
• Dream Project 2: "Monopolize Yuriyan Retriever?"
• Dream Project 3: Sweets lover! Horujuku Tanabe’s selection of "This is what you must eat!" Isetan sweets assortment

Event Details:

• Venue: Isetan Shinjuku
• Nearest Stations: Shinjuku-Sanchome Station (1-minute walk), Shinjuku Station (5-minute walk)
• Address: 〒160-0022 Tokyo, Shinjuku-ku, Shinjuku 3-14-1
  • MAP
• Dates: January 2nd (Thursday) – January 3rd (Friday), 2025
• Official Website: https://www.mistore.jp/shopping/event/shinjuku_e/newyear_10

※ For the latest information and event details, please visit the official website. Content is subject to change.

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What is Isetan Shinjuku?

Isetan Shinjuku is a well-known department store in Tokyo, Japan, established in 1886. It is part of the Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings group and is recognized for its range of fashion items, premium foods, and beauty products. The store draws both locals and visitors interested in quality and style. Its building houses various departments, including designer clothing, accessories, and gourmet groceries. Isetan Shinjuku also hosts cultural events and festivals, offering a glimpse into both traditional and modern Japanese culture.

Whisky Lovers Nagoya 2025: Your Drams Come True

Whisky Lovers Nagoya returns! Crafted by whisky enthusiasts for whisky enthusiasts, this year’s event promises an unforgettable experience. Mark your calendars for Sunday, January 26, 2025, and prepare to immerse yourself in a world of amber delights at the Fukiage Hall within the Nagoya City Small and Medium Enterprise Promotion Hall.

Whether you’re just beginning your whisky journey or consider yourself a connoisseur, Whisky Lovers Nagoya has something to offer. Explore a vast selection of whiskies and expertly crafted cocktails, tantalize your taste buds with delicious food pairings, discover unique whisky-related goods, and enjoy captivating stage events and the stirring sounds of bagpipes.

This year’s event goes beyond the ordinary, offering:

• Dedicated information desks and beginner’s guides: New to whisky? No problem! Our friendly guides will help you navigate the world of whisky and discover your new favorite dram.
• A global gathering of distillers and importers: Meet the passionate individuals behind your favorite brands, both domestic and international. Discover their stories and sample their exceptional offerings.
• The "Deep Lover’s Corner": For the seasoned whisky aficionado, this dedicated area showcases rare and exclusive bottles, providing an opportunity to discover hidden gems and expand your collection.
• A culinary adventure: Complement your whisky tasting with a diverse selection of culinary delights, carefully curated to enhance your experience.

To make the most of your day, we recommend planning your route in advance. Check out the venue map and strategize your booth visits to ensure you don’t miss a drop.

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Event Details:

• Date: Sunday, January 26, 2025
• Time: 11:00 – 17:00
• Venue: Nagoya City Small and Medium Enterprise Promotion Hall, 1st Floor, Fukiage Hall (5-minute walk from Exit 5 of Fukiage Station on the Sakura-dori Line)
• Fee: ¥5,000 (tax included) – Advance Ticket Purchase Recommended
• Contact: Whisky Lovers Nagoya Executive Committee Office

Important Notes:

• This event is strictly for those 20 years of age and older. No minors will be admitted, even with a guardian.
• Please refrain from attending if you have a fever of 37.5°C or higher, or experience symptoms such as cough, sore throat, or general malaise. Entry may be refused to those exhibiting these symptoms.

What is Nagoya known for?

Nagoya, located in central Japan, is noted for its historical landmarks, industrial significance, and distinct cuisine. A key feature of the city is Nagoya Castle, which reflects the region’s samurai heritage and architectural history. Nagoya is also central to Japan’s automotive industry, home to the headquarters of prominent car manufacturers like Toyota. The city attracts food enthusiasts with dishes such as hitsumabushi, grilled eel served on rice, and miso katsu, a breaded pork cutlet topped with miso sauce. Modern attractions include Oasis 21, known for its contemporary design, and the lively Sakae district. These elements highlight Nagoya as a city where history and modern life intersect.