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.

Tobu Department Store Ikebukuro: Ring in the Year of the Snake with Exciting New Year’s Events!

Kick off 2025 at the Tobu Department Store Ikebukuro Main Store with a serpentine celebration! Enjoy an expanded selection of lucky bags, a unique opportunity to interact with a live snake, a vibrant lion dance, and a chance to win big with our special gacha.

This year’s lucky bag selection is 110% larger than last year’s, with approximately 20,000 bags brimming with surprises available for purchase. Beyond the thrill of the lucky bag hunt, a host of engaging New Year’s events awaits.

Get Up Close and Personal with a Ball Python!🐍

Date & Time: January 2nd (Thursday), 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (with breaks for the snake)
Location: 2nd Floor, Area 5, Special Venue

Commemorate the Year of the Snake with a photo opportunity and a chance to interact with a beautiful ball python (approximately 1.2 meters long). Our trained staff will hold the snake for a safe and memorable experience. The first 150 participants can capture a photo with their smartphone or other device, and afterwards, gently touch the python under staff supervision.

To participate, simply present your Tobu Card or display the Tobu Department Store Ikebukuro Main Store official LINE friend screen.

Catch the Lively Lion Dance Parade 🦁

Date & Time: January 2nd (Thursday), 11:00 AM & 3:30 PM (approximately 25 minutes each)
Location: Starts at B1F, Area 3 Entrance

Experience the energy and excitement of a traditional lion dance parade! The procession will wind its way through the department store, starting from the B1F Area 3 entrance and moving to the B1F Area 6 entrance, the 7F Children’s Clothing Floor, the 8F Event Space, and other locations. (Route subject to change.)

Test Your Luck with the Tobu Card Member Exclusive Gacha! 🍀

Date & Time: January 2nd (Thursday), starting at 9:30 AM
Location: 2nd Floor, Area 5, Special Venue

Tobu Card members can try their luck at our New Year’s gacha for a chance to win shopping vouchers worth between ¥1,200 and ¥10,000! Each try costs ¥1,000 and vouchers can be used for Tobu Card credit payments from January 2nd to 29th, 2025 (some exclusions and conditions apply). This opportunity is limited to the first 200 participants (one try per person) and is cash only. Receipts will not be issued.

Event Details

• Venue: Tobu Department Store Ikebukuro Main Store
• Nearest Station: Ikebukuro Station
• Address: 〒171-8512 Tokyo, Toshima-ku, Nishi-Ikebukuro 1-1-25
• Map
• Date: January 2nd, 2025 (Thursday)
• Official Website: https://www.tobu-dept.jp/ikebukuro/

Please note that event details are subject to change. Always check the official website for the latest information.

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What is a Lucky Bag (Fukubukuro)?

A Lucky Bag, or Fukubukuro, is a Japanese New Year custom where retailers sell sealed bags containing various products at a discounted price. Customers purchase these bags without knowing their contents, which can include anything from clothing and accessories to electronics and household items. The combined value of the items inside typically exceeds the purchase price, making Fukubukuro a sought-after deal. This practice helps retailers manage inventory and entices shoppers with the prospect of a bargain and the intrigue of mystery. Fukubukuro events are popular, often drawing crowds eager to participate in this annual tradition.

Ring in 2025 in Style at Shangri-La Tokyo’s New Year’s Eve Countdown Party 🎉

Usher in the new year with a sophisticated celebration at the Shangri-La Tokyo. Enjoy an electrifying evening of free-flowing champagne, delectable cuisine, and pulsating DJ beats as you countdown to 2025. This exclusive party promises an unforgettable start to the year.

What sets this New Year’s Eve apart? Indulge in a live carving station featuring mouthwatering beef Wellington, alongside a luxurious spread of finger foods and desserts. Elevate your experience with a choice of two premium champagne free-flow options: Ruinart or Dom Pérignon. Red and white wine, as well as soft drinks, are also included for your enjoyment.

Event Details:

• Date: December 31, 2024 (Tuesday) – January 1, 2025 (Wednesday/Holiday)
• Time: 10:00 PM – 1:00 AM
• Venue: Piacere, 28th floor, Shangri-La Tokyo
• Address: Marunouchi Trust Tower Main Building, 1-8-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8283
• Nearest Stations: Tokyo Station, Nihonbashi Station, Otemachi Station
• Dress Code: Black & Gold Dress to impress and embrace the festive atmosphere!
• Age Restriction: 20 years and older (ID may be required)

Ticket Options:

• Ruinart Free Flow Plan: ¥60,500
• Dom Pérignon Free Flow Plan: ¥99,000

(Prices include tax, but a 15% service charge will be added.)

Don’t miss this chance to celebrate the New Year in style. Reservations are required, so book your spot now!

Contact & Booking:

• Restaurant Reservations: 03-6739-7264 or [email protected]
• Official Hotel Website: Shangri-La Tokyo
• Location Map: Google Maps
• Find Hotels Near Tokyo Station: Expedia 🛏️

Please note that event details are subject to change. Always check the official website for the latest information.

What is Shangri-La Tokyo?

Shangri-La Tokyo is a luxury hotel situated in Japan’s capital. It is part of the Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts group, offering both Asian hospitality and modern conveniences. The hotel is located near Tokyo Station, providing excellent city views and convenient access to key attractions, suitable for leisure and business visitors alike.

Dining at Shangri-La Tokyo includes both Japanese and international cuisines, with meals crafted by reputed chefs. Facilities include a spa, a fitness center, and an indoor swimming pool. Rooms and suites are designed for comfort and equipped with modern technology.

Shangri-La Tokyo extends beyond being a mere accommodation. It offers an environment of calm and elegance in the vibrant city of Tokyo. Regardless of your reason for visiting, Shangri-La Tokyo offers a remarkable experience.

Indulge in a Strawberry Dream at Anniversaire Cafe Omotesando 🍓

This winter, treat yourself to a luxurious strawberry-themed afternoon tea at Anniversaire Cafe Omotesando. From January 9th to February 18th, 2025, savor the taste of Japan’s finest in-season strawberries, bursting with sweetness and juicy perfection. This isn’t just any afternoon tea; it’s a carefully curated experience designed to delight your senses.

What sets this Strawberry Afternoon Tea apart? It’s the delicate balance of sweet and savory, the playful textures, and the sheer abundance of fresh, premium strawberries. Think delicate strawberry tarts and shortcakes, complemented by rich praline and cheese mousse. Lighter bites like ginger ale jelly and raspberry macarons add a refreshing touch. And because a perfect afternoon tea needs a savory counterpoint, the third tier offers exquisite treats like chilled mushroom and consommé royale, duck and seasonal fruit skewers, and other visually stunning delicacies.

A Three-Tiered Symphony of Flavors

Here’s a glimpse of what awaits you:

Tier 1: Sweet Beginnings

• Strawberry Shortcake
• Strawberry Tart
• Passion Fruit Chocolate
• Praline Mousse

Tier 2: A Playful Mix

• Cheese Mousse
• Ginger Ale Jelly
• Raspberry Cream Puff
• Raspberry Macaron
• Crème brûlée

Tier 3: Savory Delights

• Chilled Mushroom and Consommé Royale
• Shrimp, Avocado, and Basil Tartine
• Prosciutto and Raisin Cream Gougère
• Duck and Seasonal Fruit Skewers

Beyond the three-tiered stand, you’ll also enjoy plain scones served with rose honey, and two types of grissini. Complete your experience with unlimited refills from a selection of 20 beverages, including a limited-edition specialty drink, coffee, and a variety of teas.

All the Details You Need

• Location: Anniversaire Omotesando (Nearest Station: Omotesando)
• Address: 〒107-0061 Tokyo, Minato-ku, Kita-Aoyama 3-5-30 Map
• Dates: January 9th (Thursday) – February 18th (Tuesday), 2025 (Irregular holidays; check the official website for details)
• Times: Lounge: 11:00 – 21:00 / Cake: 11:00 – 19:00 / Coffee: 11:00 – 20:00
• Price: ¥7,000 (tax included)
• Phone: 03-5411-5988
• Website: Anniversaire Cafe Omotesando

Important Note: Details are subject to change. Please refer to the official website for the latest information.

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What is Anniversaire Cafe Omotesando?

Anniversaire Cafe Omotesando is a café located in the Omotesando district of Tokyo, Japan. Known for its design that combines European charm with Japanese modernity, the café offers a menu featuring a mix of traditional Japanese and Western culinary techniques. This includes notable items such as afternoon teas, pastries, and seasonal dishes.

Situated in an area popular for its boutiques and architecture, Anniversaire Cafe provides a quieter retreat within the city. The café’s afternoon tea sets, which change with the seasons to incorporate fresh ingredients, are particularly appreciated. It is a destination for those who enjoy a refined setting with carefully crafted offerings, whether they are celebrating an occasion or simply looking for a pleasant experience.

Discover Your Sweet Potato Soulmate at the 4th Annual "Falling in Love with Sweet Potatoes" Festival!

Calling all sweet potato lovers! Get ready to indulge in a delicious celebration of everyone’s favorite root vegetable at the 4th annual "Falling in Love with Sweet Potatoes" festival. This year’s event promises to be even sweeter than before, with new vendors and exciting activities. Join us for 11 days of pure sweet potato bliss at the Hanshin Umeda Main Store’s 1st-floor Food Festival Terrace.

Returning this year are sweet potato aficionados Ayuki Hashimoto, representative director of the Sweet Potato Ambassador Association, and Yasuko Okuno, director in charge of "Daigaku Imo" (candied sweet potatoes). They’ve curated an impressive selection of sweet potato treats from 11 vendors across Japan, including four exciting newcomers:

• FLANDERS FRITES (Fukui): Discover delicious sweet potato fries with a unique twist.
• Tsuboyaki Imo Kyoto Yamashina Zento (Kyoto): Experience the traditional flavors of Tsuboyaki Imo, slow-roasted sweet potatoes.
• Kyoto Kinnohana Saga Arashiyama Store (Kyoto): Indulge in elegant sweet potato desserts.
• Imoya Itadaki (Osaka): Savor Osaka’s take on sweet potato specialties.

From classic baked sweet potatoes and crispy Imo-Kenpi (candied sweet potato strips) to the ever-popular honey sweet potato cheesecake, you’ll find a sweet potato treat to satisfy every craving.

New This Year: Discover your perfect sweet potato match with the "Sweet Potato Love Fortune"! Receive a personalized fortune and discover your ideal sweet potato pairing. Who knows, enjoying your recommended treat might just boost your romantic luck for the year! (Free paper fortunes available at the venue, limited to the first 6,000 people.)

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Event Details:

• Dates: January 3rd (Friday) – January 13th (Monday/Holiday), 2025
• Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (9:30 AM – 7:00 PM on January 3rd)
• Location: Hanshin Umeda Main Store 1st floor Food Festival Terrace (1-13-13 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka)
• Admission: Free
• Website: Hanshin Department Store

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Discovering Hanshin Umeda

Located in the bustling Umeda district of Osaka, Japan, Hanshin Umeda is a commercial complex renowned for its diverse shopping and dining options. As part of the Hanshin Department Store, a longstanding retail brand, it offers a wide variety of fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products. Both locals and tourists frequent the complex, drawn to its multiple floors of retail spaces that include gourmet food halls and specialty shops. Here, visitors can enjoy local and international cuisines. Positioned near key transportation hubs, Hanshin Umeda is an accessible meeting point within Osaka. The complex also hosts events like the "Falling in Love with Sweet Potatoes" Festival, where sweet potato enthusiasts can enjoy themed activities and unique culinary treats dedicated to this popular root vegetable.