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.

🛏️ Find accommodation near the bakeries!

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.

Glide into Winter at Nagoya’s Oasis 21 Ice Rink! ⛸️

Get ready to experience the magic of ice skating under the stars! For its 16th season, the Toyoda Gosei Link at Oasis 21 returns, offering a unique semi-outdoor skating experience in the heart of Nagoya. Whether you’re planning a fun family outing, a romantic date, or simply seeking a unique photo opportunity, this dazzling rink is the perfect winter destination. After dusk, the illuminations transform the space into a magical wonderland, making it an especially enchanting spot for couples.

Featured in the Nagoya Illumination Special Feature 2024-2025!

About Oasis 21

Oasis 21 is more than just an ice rink; it’s a vibrant, three-dimensional park featuring the iconic "Spaceship-Aqua," a massive glass roof filled with water. Explore the ground-level "Green Earth" park, browse the 30 shops in the underground "Galaxy Square," or simply marvel at the illuminated Spaceship-Aqua – a true Nagoya landmark.

See Oasis 21 details

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Toyoda Gosei Link: Know Before You Go

Opening Hours:

• Weekdays: 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• Weekends/Holidays/Winter Vacation (December 23rd – January 7th): 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Last entry is 30 minutes before closing.

Location: Oasis 21 Galaxy Square

Pricing (including skate rental):

• Weekdays: Adults (Junior High and above) ¥1,200, Children (Elementary and below) ¥600
• Weekends/Holidays/Winter Vacation (December 23rd – January 7th): Adults (Junior High and above) ¥1,400, Children (Elementary and below) ¥600

Important Information:

• Gloves Required: Gloves are mandatory on the rink and are available for purchase on-site.
• Skate Rental Only: Personal skates are not allowed. Rental skates are available in sizes 16cm to 30cm (in 1cm increments; availability may be limited).
• No Re-entry: Once you leave the rink, re-entry is not permitted.
• Adult Supervision: Preschool children must be accompanied by a guardian.
• Limited Liability: First aid is provided for injuries, but further responsibility cannot be assumed.
• Entry Restrictions: Admission may be temporarily restricted during peak times. Management reserves the right to refuse entry for operational reasons.
• Clothing Advisory: The rink’s special resin flooring material may leave residue on clothing that can be difficult to remove depending on the fabric.
• Operational Changes: Operating days and hours are subject to change due to weather or special events.

Contact: Me～Tele (052-331-9966, Weekdays 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)

Getting There:

• Train: Direct access from Sakae Station (Exit 4A, Higashiyama and Meijo Subway Lines) and Sakaemachi Station (Meitetsu Seto Line).
• Bus: "Chubu Electric Power MIRAI TOWER" bus stop on the Nagoya Sightseeing Route Bus Me～guru.
• Car: 500m west on Nishiki-dori from the Higashi-Shinmachi Exit of the Nagoya Expressway Inner Circular Route.

What is Oasis 21?

Oasis 21 is a modern architectural marvel located in the heart of Nagoya, Japan. Opened in 2002, this multi-purpose complex is not just a hub for shopping and dining but also a popular tourist attraction known for its unique design and vibrant atmosphere. The centerpiece of Oasis 21 is the "Spaceship-Aqua," a stunning glass structure that appears to hover above the complex. This elliptical water-filled roof offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city below and provides stunning reflections of the surrounding urban landscape, creating the illusion of skating under the stars during winter events like the ice rink.

The facility seamlessly integrates a variety of spaces, including a bustling bus terminal, shops, restaurants, and open areas for events and gatherings. Its innovative design emphasizes harmony with the environment, featuring lush greenery and open-air spaces that promote relaxation and leisure. Especially during the winter season, Oasis 21 transforms into a magical winter wonderland, drawing both locals and tourists to experience its seasonal charm. Whether visiting for a leisurely skate or simply to enjoy the architectural beauty, Oasis 21 offers a unique blend of entertainment, culture, and natural beauty in the heart of Nagoya.