Chacha’s Tea – A Tour of Tea Places

The interplay of flavors present in a cup of tea, ranging from bitter to sweet, can be a profound experience — a life without tea would be missing one of its most interesting aspects.

The main types of Japanese tea; matcha, sencha, bancha and gyokuro, all share a brown and playful color. They are also a deeply ingrained part of Japanese culture, as exemplified by the ancient proverb "Morning tea wards off the day’s troubles." Originally a custom of the upper class, tea drinking spread to the common people during the Edo period. This was a time of increased development of infrastructure and economic activity throughout Japan, which allowed for tea cultivation to expand nationwide.

Tea has fascinated everyone, from commoners to the shogun, soothing the mind and body, creating social occasions, and nurturing people’s sensibilities.

This exhibition traces tea-related culture, such as tea-producing areas and teahouses along the Tokaido, famous sweets of the highway, signboard girls, and the tea color popularized by kabuki actors, alongside the works of Utagawa Hiroshige.

Why not join us for tea time, indulging in its rich aroma and beautiful water color?

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Dates: February 13 (Thurs), 2025 – May 11 (Sun/Holiday), 2025

Closed on: National Holidays (February 23, March 20, April 29, May 3-5)

Hours: 9:00-16:00 (Last entry at 15:30)

Venue: Mitsubishi UFJ Bank Currency Museum and Ukiyo-e Museum

Fee: Free

Contact: Mitsubishi UFJ Bank Currency Museum and Ukiyo-e Museum

TEL: 052-300-8686 (English inquiries not accepted)

Website URL: https://www.bk.mufg.jp/currency_museum/index.html

Access: A brief, five-minute walk from either Exit 3 of Fushimi Subway Station, or Exit 8 of Sakae Subway Station.

Notes:

• There is no parking available, so visitors are kindly requested to use public transportation.
• The event may be cancelled, postponed, or changed at any time, without prior notice.

What is the Mitsubishi UFJ Bank Museum?

The Mitsubishi UFJ Bank Museum, located in Tokyo, is dedicated to the history of Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, a significant player in Japan’s financial sector. The museum provides insights into the development of banking and finance in Japan, emphasizing Mitsubishi UFJ’s role in the country’s economic growth.

Visitors can explore a range of exhibits, including historical documents, artifacts, and interactive displays. These exhibits cover the bank’s journey from its inception in the late 19th century to its current global presence. The museum also offers a perspective on Japan’s economic history, including its industrialization and modernization.

Beyond its permanent collection, the museum hosts special exhibitions and events focused on Japanese culture and history. These programs often feature lectures, workshops, and cultural demonstrations, offering an educational experience for visitors.

The Mitsubishi UFJ Bank Museum is a resource for those interested in the connections between culture, history, and economics in Japan.

Rurouni Kenshin 30th Anniversary Exhibition: The Makoto Shishio Saga

Celebrating Three Decades of a Legendary Manga

The Rurouni Kenshin 30th Anniversary Exhibition, focusing on the Makoto Shishio Arc, offers a unique journey through one of the most iconic sagas in manga history. Unlike typical anniversary events, this exhibition provides an immersive experience centered around a specific, fan-favorite storyline, allowing for a deeper dive into the world of Rurouni Kenshin.

Highlights of the Exhibition

What sets this exhibition apart is its dedication to both the original manga and its anime adaptation. Visitors can expect:

• Original Drawings: A vast collection of Nobuhiro Watsuki’s original artwork, providing a rare glimpse into the creation of the Makoto Shishio arc.
• "Double Extreme" Photo Spot: An opportunity for fans to photograph themselves within a memorable scene.
• Life-Size "Sakabatou": A meticulously crafted replica of Kenshin’s reverse-blade sword, offering a tangible connection to the series’ central themes.
• Anime Materials: A curated selection of production materials from the TV anime, showcasing the adaptation process.
• Commemorative Colored Papers: A special display of colored papers contributed by 39 renowned artists, including a newly added piece by Nobuyuki Anzai at the Tokyo venue, each offering a unique tribute to Rurouni Kenshin‘s enduring legacy.

Event Details

The exhibition is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all visitors, with clear and concise information provided:

• Location: Animate Ikebukuro Main Store, 8F Space Galleria, easily accessible from Ikebukuro Station.
• Address: 1-20-7 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 170-0013 (MAP)
• Exhibition Period: January 10, 2025 (Friday) – February 10, 2025 (Monday).
• Hours:
  • Weekdays: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Weekends & Holidays: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Last entry is 30 minutes before closing.
  • On the final day (February 10th), the exhibition closes at 5:00 PM, with the last entry at 4:30 PM.
• Note: Business hours may be subject to change. Admission is not timed.

For the most up-to-date information, including ticket details and commemorative goods, please refer to the official website.

Planning Your Visit

The exhibition’s central location in Ikebukuro makes it convenient for both local and international visitors. For those traveling from afar, consider exploring accommodation options in the area: 🛏️ See hotels near Tokyo.

The published content is subject to change, so it is always recommended to check the official website for the latest updates before your visit.

Gallery

What is Rurouni Kenshin?

"Rurouni Kenshin" is a Japanese manga and anime series by Nobuhiro Watsuki, set in the early Meiji period. It follows Himura Kenshin, a former assassin known as "Hitokiri Battosai," who now wanders as a swordsman committed to protecting the innocent without taking lives. He wields a reverse-blade sword, symbolizing his vow to never kill again.

The series is noted for its storytelling, character development, and historical setting, combining elements of action, drama, and romance. Kenshin’s struggle with his past and his pursuit of redemption are central to the story. He encounters a range of characters, including allies and foes like Makoto Shishio, as he navigates a Japan in transition between tradition and modernity.

"Rurouni Kenshin" has been adapted into various formats, including anime series, films, and live-action movies, maintaining its appeal across different media. Its exploration of themes such as atonement, honor, and the consequences of one’s actions continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.

Japan Castle Festival 2025

The Nippon Castle Festival Executive Committee has announced that it will hold the "Nippon Castle Festival 2025," an event that introduces the multifaceted charm of various castles located both inside and outside of the Aichi prefecture. The Committee is composed of the Aichi Historical Tourism Promotion Council (with its Secretariat in the Aichi Prefecture Tourism Promotion Division), among others.

The event, scheduled for March 1st and 2nd, 2025, promises a rich array of content designed to appeal to a broad audience. The festival will feature a "Castle Information Area," showcasing information and limited-edition goods from castles across the nation. Attendees can also look forward to engaging talk shows by castle specialists, dynamic performances by warrior and ninja groups, and a tempting selection of meals, snacks, and local sake.

Notably, 2025 marks the 450th anniversary of the Battle of Nagashino-Shitaragahara. In commemoration, the festival will include a variety of exhibits and talks related to Nagashino Castle and the Shitaragahara battlefield.

Nippon Castle Festival 2025

Featured Events

• Castle Information Area: An exhibition booth area where one can discover information and purchase goods from various castles nationwide.
• Castle Enthusiasm Workshop/Seminar: In-depth discussions about castles, led by curators, and hands-on workshops.
• Nippon Sake Festival: A large gathering of Japanese sake with connections to castles and warlords.
• East-West Delicious Food Battle: A selection of meals and snacks.
• Aichi Historical Tourism Panel Exhibition: An introduction to Aichi’s castles and locations associated with historical warlords.

Castle Love Stage

The Castle Love Stage will feature talk shows brimming with passion for castles, presented by castle specialists and other notable figures.

March 1st (Saturday)

• Chris Glenn: Radio DJ known for his love of castles, Director of the Japan Castle Association.
• Yutaka Shiba: Part-time lecturer at Toyo University Faculty of Letters and Komazawa University Faculty of Letters.
• Hitoshi Nakai: Councilor of the Japan Castle Association.
• Masaru Hirayama: Historian, Specially Appointed Professor at Health Sciences University.

March 2nd (Sunday)

• Masayuki Miura: Professor Emeritus, Hiroshima University.
• Keiji Maeda: Nagoya Omotenashi Bushoutai(R).
• Asami Kuboi: Castle-loving weather forecaster and disaster prevention specialist.
• Tetsuo Owada: President of the Japan Castle Association.

Both Days

• MC: Rekishi-kun, a History Navigator.

*Please note that the contents are subject to change. For the latest information, please refer to the official website.

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Event Details

• Dates: March 1st (Saturday) and March 2nd (Sunday), 2025
• Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Venue: Nagoya City Small and Medium Enterprise Promotion Hall, Fukiage Hall, located at 6-3, Fukiage 2-chome, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya City
• Admission Fee (tax included):
  • Same-day tickets: 2,000 yen
  • Advance tickets: 1,800 yen

*High school students and younger individuals are granted free admission. Those possessing a disability certificate or rehabilitation certificate can purchase tickets at the advance price, even on the day of the event.

Ticket Sales: Tickets will be available for purchase starting December 20th, 2024, through Ticket Pia, eplus, Lawson Ticket, and other outlets.

Contact Information:

• Nippon Castle Festival Executive Committee
• TEL: 090-8667-4702 (Weekdays 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM)
• Website: https://shiromatsuri.com/

Organizers and Sponsors:

1. Organizer: Nippon Castle Festival Executive Committee, composed of the Aichi Historical Tourism Promotion Council (Secretariat: Aichi Prefecture Tourism Convention Bureau, Tourism Promotion Division), Dentsu Meitetsu Communications Inc., and others.
2. Sponsored by: ZIP-FM Co., Ltd.
3. In Cooperation with: Television Aichi Co., Ltd.

What is Nagoya Castle?

Nagoya Castle is a historically significant site located in Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan. Constructed in the early 17th century during the Edo period, it served as a military stronghold for the Tokugawa shogunate. The castle is notable for its architecture, including massive stone walls, a main keep, and the golden shachihoko (mythical tiger-fish) ornaments on its roof.

The castle has been reconstructed several times, particularly after damage in World War II. Today, it is a restored cultural landmark that offers insights into Japan’s feudal era. The grounds include gardens, historical exhibits, and a museum with artifacts from the castle’s history.

Nagoya Castle also functions as a cultural venue, hosting events and festivals throughout the year. Its historical significance and architectural features make it a worthwhile destination for visitors to Japan.

Oodaka Ryokuchi Plum Blossom Festival

The Oodaka Ryokuchi Park, boasting an impressive collection of approximately 400 plum trees spanning 15 distinct varieties, offers a breathtaking spectacle of plum blossoms typically reaching their peak viewing period between mid-February and early March. During this time, the park transforms into a vibrant tapestry of colors, and the vista from the pond — a harmonious blend of white, red, and light pink blossoms — is particularly recommended.

The "Plum Blossom Festival" is thoughtfully scheduled to coincide with this optimal viewing period. On Saturdays and Sundays, visitors can enjoy the added convenience of kitchen cars and a variety of special events. For detailed information on these events, please refer to the official website.

Introduced in this special feature!

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Event Details:

• Dates: Saturday, February 15, 2025 – Sunday, March 2, 2025
  • Please note that the festival events, including kitchen cars, are only held on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays during this period.
• Closed: Paid facilities within the park observe closures every Monday. Should Monday fall on a public holiday, these facilities will be closed on the following weekday instead.
• Hours: Festival events are scheduled from 10:00 to 15:00.
• Location: The festival primarily takes place within the Japanese Garden and Plum Grove areas of the park. Utilizing the second parking lot is recommended for convenient access.
• Fees: While entry to the park and festival is free, certain facilities within the park may have associated usage fees. Detailed information regarding these fees can be found on the park’s official website.
• Contact: For any inquiries, please reach out to the Oodaka Ryokuchi Park Management Office.
  • TEL: 052-622-2281
  • FAX: 052-622-2282
• Website URL: https://www.aichi-koen.com/odaka/
• Access:
  * A brief 10-minute walk from Sakyo-yama Station on the Meitetsu Nagoya Main Line will bring you to the park.
  * Alternatively, a 30-minute walk from Minami-Odaka Station on the JR Tokaido Main Line is another option.
• Parking: Ample free parking is available, accommodating approximately 1,300 cars and 10 buses.

What is Oodaka Ryokuchi?

Oodaka Ryokuchi is a park in Nagoya, Japan, known for its natural beauty and calm atmosphere. It is a popular local spot, offering a landscape that changes with the seasons. The park is well-known for its plum blossoms, which attract visitors each spring. These blossoms add vibrant colors to the park, providing a scenic setting for walks and photography. Besides its floral displays, Oodaka Ryokuchi includes walking paths, picnic areas, and traditional Japanese gardens, making it a suitable destination for families, nature lovers, and those looking for a quiet break from city life.

MARUNOUCHI Valentine Market 2025

A Confluence of Confectionery: 21 Unique Shops, Including 5 First-Time Vendors

The Marunouchi district, already renowned for its sophisticated culinary landscape, will further enhance its reputation with the MARUNOUCHI Valentine Market 2025. This year’s market features a curated selection of 21 distinct shops, showcasing the artistry and innovation of both established names and exciting newcomers. Five vendors will be making their debut appearance, adding a fresh dimension to the already impressive lineup of Marunouchi’s most popular and celebrated shops.

Among the notable participants, ‘ORANGE kikaki’ will present a specialty selection of orangettes, featuring the rich yet gently sweet "Tsunohikari" citrus fruit. ‘CACAObroma’, guided by a pharmacist’s focus on "deliciousness and health," will offer an assortment of carefully selected organic chocolate and cookies. These newcomers join established favorites such as ‘Chocolatier Pale d’Or’ and ‘Pierre Hermé’, ensuring a diverse and delectable range of chocolate creations.

Beyond the core market offerings, the event extends its reach with the "Marunouchi Sweets Lottery." Held for five days, from January 31st (Friday) to February 4th (Tuesday), this lottery offers the first 100 participants each day a chance to win petit sweets or coupons. Participation requires a purchase receipt of 2,000 yen or more (including tax, with same-day receipts combinable) from the "MARUNOUCHI Valentine Market 2025."

In addition to the treats available at the event venue, the wider Marunouchi area will also participate, offering drinks perfect for enjoying while strolling around the city, as well as Marunouchi-limited sweets. This coordinated effort promises to envelop the district in a sweet fragrance, creating a truly special Valentine’s Day experience.

Participating Shop Lineup:

• The Peninsula Boutique & Cafe Shin-Marunouchi Building Store
• dari K Marunouchi Oazo Store
• DEMEL
• La Boutique de Joël Robuchon Marunouchi Store
• BENOIT NIHANT
• SILSMARIA
• ★CACAObroma
• ★Cocolo kitchen KYOTO
• Koiwai Farm TOKYO
• ★HINEMOS
• Chocolatier Pale d’Or
• hotel the progress
• Pierre Hermé
• CHEESE GARDEN
• pure coco TOKYO
• ICONIC STAGE marunouchi
• ★ORANGE kikaki
• Gion Kitagawa Hanbee Tokyo Marunouchi Building Store
• marl
• ★Keikidokoro Mioya
• Tachimachi Canelé MARUNOUCHI

(★ denotes first-time appearance at MARUNOUCHI Valentine Market)

Marunouchi Sweets Lottery Details:

• Date and Time: January 31, 2025 (Fri) – February 4, 2025 (Tue), 11:00-17:00 (Ends as soon as prizes run out)
• Venue: Marunouchi Building 1F Mar Cube Special Counter
• Participation: Present a purchase receipt (2,000 yen or more including tax / same-day receipts can be combined) from "MARUNOUCHI Valentine Market 2025"
• Prizes: Petit sweets or coupons, awarded by lottery.

(Please refer to the official website for complete details.)

Basic Information:

• Venue / Nearest Station: Maru Building
  • Tokyo Station (1-minute walk)
  • Nijubashimae <Marunouchi> Station (1-minute walk)
  • Otemachi Station (3-minute walk)
  • Yurakucho Station (9-minute walk)
• Address: 〒100-6390 Tokyo, Chiyoda-ku, Marunouchi 2-4-1 (MAP)
• Event Period: January 31, 2025 (Fri) – February 14, 2025 (Fri)
• Time: 11:00 – 21:00 (Marunouchi Building 1F Mar Cube)
• Official Website: https://www.marunouchi.com/lp/valentine2025/

Published content is subject to change. Please check the official website of the venue/organizer for the latest information.

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What is Marunouchi?

Marunouchi is a prominent commercial district in central Tokyo, situated between the Imperial Palace and Tokyo Station. It is a key area for business, housing the headquarters of major corporations and serving as a significant center for finance and commerce in Japan. The district also features a lively shopping and dining scene, with a variety of boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. Cultural attractions, such as art galleries and theaters, add to the area’s appeal. Marunouchi’s strategic location and diverse offerings make it an interesting destination for both locals and visitors looking to explore Tokyo’s urban landscape.

Christmas Rose in Bloom: A Year in Panels

For those interested in cultivating Helleborus, commonly known as the Christmas Rose, an informative panel exhibition will be held at the Todagawa Ryokuchi Flower Center, located within the larger Agricultural Culture Park. The exhibition, presented by prominent Hellebore enthusiast Ms. Kaoru Aoshima, promises to deliver valuable insights into the "methods to keep Hellebores healthy and blooming profusely".

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Duration:

The exhibition will run from January 21st (Tuesday), 2025, to March 2nd (Sunday), 2025. Please note that the Flower Center is closed every Monday. In the event that a Monday falls on a national holiday, the Center will remain closed on the following weekday.

Opening Hours:

Visitors are welcome between the hours of 9:00 and 16:30.

Location:

The exhibition will take place at the Todagawa Ryokuchi Flower Center, a part of the Agricultural Culture Park in Nagoya, Japan.

Admission:

Admission to the panel exhibition is free of charge.

Contact Information:

For inquiries, please contact the Todagawa Ryokuchi Management Center at TEL: 052-302-5321. Please note that English language inquiries are not accepted at this number.

What are Christmas Roses (Hellebores)?

Christmas Roses, or Helleborus niger, are perennial plants known for blooming in winter, around Christmas. They belong to the Ranunculaceae family and originate from the mountainous regions of Europe, especially the Alps.

These plants are valued for their cup-shaped flowers, which vary in color from white to soft pink, sometimes with a green tint. Their dark green foliage remains attractive year-round, enhancing any garden.

Christmas Roses are resilient, thriving in shaded or partially shaded areas with well-drained, humus-rich soil. They can withstand cold temperatures and snow, making them a preferred choice for adding color to winter gardens.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Hellebores have historical and cultural significance. They have been used in traditional medicine and are linked to various myths and legends. Today, they continue to attract gardeners and plant enthusiasts with their unique charm and durability, making them a popular choice for winter gardens and floral displays.