Witness the Spectacular Osaka City Fire Department New Year’s Fire Review! 🔥

Get ready for an exhilarating display of firefighting prowess at the Osaka City Fire Department’s New Year’s Fire Review on Saturday, January 5, 2025! This isn’t your average New Year’s celebration; prepare to be amazed by a coordinated showcase of land, sea, and air rescue techniques.

The event kicks off with a grand procession of mechanized units, featuring fire helicopters soaring overhead, fire trucks rolling in formation, and fire boats navigating the waters. Following this impressive display, local disaster prevention leaders and fire department personnel will parade, demonstrating the city’s commitment to safety and preparedness.

The highlight of the event? A breathtaking, synchronized water display performed by fire trucks and fire boats. Imagine vibrant jets of water painting the sky, culminating in a spectacular Miotsukushi water curtain – a truly unique way to celebrate the New Year in Naniwa. And that’s not all! "Myaku Myaku," the official character of the Osaka-Kansai Expo, will make a special appearance during this dazzling water show.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! After the main ceremony, the "Citizens and Firefighters Interaction Corner" opens its doors, offering a range of interactive experiences for all ages. Kids can dress up in miniature firefighter uniforms, hop aboard mini fire trucks for a memorable photo op, brace themselves for a simulated earthquake, and even try their hand at operating a water fire extinguisher. Thrill-seekers can enjoy battery-powered car rides at the main gate, while the Central Atrium (ITM Building 2nd floor) transforms into an "Interaction Stage Corner." Here, visitors can test their knowledge with a fire quiz, witness exciting fire experiments, and learn essential first-aid techniques.

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Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, January 5, 2025 (Reiwa 7)
• Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM (※Citizens and Firefighters Interaction Corner: 11:20 AM – 1:00 PM)
• Location: Osaka South Port ATC Oz Wharf and surrounding area (Osaka-shi, Suminoe-ku, Nankokita 2-1-10)
• Admission: Free
• Contact: Osaka City Fire Department (06-6582-2854)
• Website: Osaka City Fire Department

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What is the Fire Review tradition?

In Osaka City, the Fire Review is an established annual tradition that marks the start of the new year. Its origins lie in historical practices designed to improve firefighting techniques. Over time, it has become an event that not only displays the skills of the fire department but also promotes public safety and community awareness.

Every January, the Osaka City Fire Department conducts the New Year’s Fire Review. The event serves a dual purpose: it is both a celebration and an educational opportunity to emphasize fire safety. The program includes orchestrated demonstrations of land, sea, and air rescues, showcasing the fire department’s wide range of capabilities. Firefighters demonstrate their competency in various scenarios, such as firefighting, high-angle rescues, and complex operations involving rescue boats and helicopters.

The event allows the public to observe the dedication of the firefighters and offers a chance to introduce new technologies and equipment that enhance emergency response. Traditional rituals are also part of the review, honoring the historical commitment of past and present firefighters.

In summary, the Fire Review is an engaging event that highlights the importance of preparedness and community cooperation in public safety.

✨ Witness the Lucky Platinum Snakehead at the Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium! ✨

Celebrate the 2025 Year of the Snake with a unique aquatic experience! The Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium is proud to present the shimmering Platinum Snakehead, reminiscent of the revered white snake, a symbol of luck and good fortune in Japanese culture. 🐍

The Striking Platinum Snakehead

These captivating fish, selectively bred albino snakeheads, are rarely seen and offer a mesmerizing spectacle. Their unique appearance sets them apart from their more common counterparts, making this exhibit a must-see.

Please note: The exhibited creatures and exhibition period are subject to change depending on the animals’ well-being.

Explore the Wonders of the Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium

While visiting the Platinum Snakehead, take the opportunity to explore the two fascinating buildings of the aquarium:

• South Building: Journey to Antarctica: Embark on an exciting adventure tracing the route of the Antarctic observation ship Fuji. Discover diverse creatures and their natural habitats across five aquatic regions, from Japan to the icy plains of Antarctica. 🐧

• North Building: A 3.5 Billion Year Journey: Animals That Returned to the Sea: Witness the majesty of bottlenose dolphins, belugas, and other incredible marine animals. Don’t miss the breathtaking performances in Japan’s largest main pool, accommodating approximately 3,000 spectators. These shows offer an unparalleled opportunity to learn about the animals’ ecology and behavior. 🐬

See Spot Details

Event Details: Platinum Snakehead Exhibit

Dates: December 24, 2024 (Tuesday) – January 13, 2025 (Monday, National Holiday)

Hours: 9:30 – 17:00 (Last entry at 16:00)

Location: Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium, South Building Entrance

Fee:

• Adults: 2,030 yen
• Elementary and Junior High School Students: 1,010 yen
• Infants (4 years and older): 500 yen

Contact: Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium – 052-654-7080 (English inquiries accepted)

Access: A short 5-minute walk from Exit 3 of Nagoya Port Station on the Meiko Line.

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What is a Platinum Snakehead?

The Platinum Snakehead is a variant of the snakehead fish, notable for its metallic silver appearance, which is unusually striking compared to typical snakeheads. Native to Asia and Africa, snakeheads are freshwater fish recognized by their elongated bodies and predatory nature. The uniqueness of the Platinum Snakehead lies in its rare genetic mutation that alters pigmentation, giving it its distinct color.

These fish are popular among aquarists and collectors who value their appearance. Like their relatives, Platinum Snakeheads are resilient and can adapt to varied environments. They possess a labyrinth organ, enabling them to survive in low-oxygen waters by breathing air.

The Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium features the Platinum Snakehead, allowing visitors to see this rare fish outside of private collections. This exhibition underscores the aquarium’s dedication to presenting diverse aquatic life and promoting awareness of ecological and genetic variation.

Trade Your Troubles for Luck at the Exchange of Lies Ritual! 🕊️

Want to turn your bad luck into good fortune? Then don’t miss the unique "Exchange of Lies" ritual at the Yamada Tenmangu Shrine! This Shinto tradition helps you symbolically shed the misfortunes of the past year and invite happiness into the new one.

How does it work? By offering a uso (a charming wooden bullfinch figurine) to the shrine, you’re essentially trading your troubles for good luck. It’s a fresh start, a chance to leave behind negativity and embrace a brighter future.

What makes this year special? While the Exchange of Lies ritual is an annual tradition, each year offers a unique opportunity to reflect and renew. Come experience the vibrant atmosphere and connect with the community as you participate in this centuries-old custom.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, January 25, 2025
• Time: From 10:00 a.m.
• Location: Yamada Tenmangu Shrine precincts (7-minute walk from Exit 5 of JR/Subway Meijo Line "Ozone" Station)
• Cost: "Uso" (wooden bullfinch figurine): Offering of 1,500 yen (limited quantity – arrive early to secure yours!)

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Contact Information:

• Yamada Tenmangu Shrine
• Tel: 052-981-5695
• Website: http://www.tenman.jp/

What is the Usokae ritual?

The Usokae is a traditional Japanese ceremony held at shrines like Nagoya’s Yamada Tenmangu. Participants exchange small carved wooden birds called "uso," which playfully reference the Japanese word for "lies" or "untruths." In this ritual, people swap these figurines to symbolically shed the misfortunes of the past year. As part of this communal event, attendees hope to receive a more elaborate bird, believed to usher in better fortune for the upcoming year. The Usokae fosters community ties and provides an opportunity for spiritual renewal as the new year begins.

Beat the Winter Blues at Tobu’s Family Fun Fest!

This winter, escape the ordinary and dive into a wonderland of fun at Tobu Department Store Ikebukuro’s "Winter Vacation" event! Get ready for exciting activities, traditional games, and festive cheer, perfect for families looking to create unforgettable memories.

Conquer the Cardboard Kingdom & Traditional Games Galore!

Head up to the 8th-floor rooftop Sky Deck Square for an epic adventure! Kids will love navigating the giant cardboard maze, a unique experience you won’t find at your average winter festival. And that’s not all! Try your hand at classic Japanese games like kendama, koma (spinning tops), and yo-yo – a fantastic opportunity to introduce these timeless pastimes to a new generation. Don’t miss the chance to decorate your own hagoita (battledores), adding a personalized touch to this traditional craft.

Giant Cardboard Maze Challenge:

• When: December 28th (Sat) & 29th (Sun), 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Where: 8th Floor Rooftop "Sky Deck Square"
• Cost: ¥300 per child (Elementary school age and younger)
• What: One thrilling run through the maze! (Event cancelled in case of rain or severe weather)

Hagoita Decorating & Traditional Games Corner:

• When: January 4th (Sat), 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM
• Where: 8th Floor Rooftop "Sky Deck Square"
• Hagoita Decorating Cost: ¥500 (Includes one feather)
• Traditional Games Cost: Free!
• What: Unleash your creativity decorating a hagoita with colorful markers. Then, test your skills with kendama, koma, and yo-yo. (In case of rain or severe weather, the location and content may be partially changed.)

Winter Festival Fun on the 7th Floor!

The excitement continues on the 7th floor! Dive into a winter wonderland filled with festive activities like super ball scooping, glitter scooping, and capsule fishing lotteries. With a variety of games and prizes to discover, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

• When:
  • Session 1: December 26th (Thu) – 31st (Tue)
  • Session 2: January 4th (Sat) – 8th (Wed)
  • 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
• Where: 7th Floor, Area 3, Event Space
• Cost: ¥300 – ¥400 per activity

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
• Event Period: December 26th, 2024 (Thu) – January 8th, 2025 (Wed) (Varies depending on the event. Closed on January 1st, 2025.)
• Official Website: https://www.tobu-dept.jp/ikebukuro/

Important Note: Event details are subject to change. Please check the venue’s official website for the latest information.

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What is Tobu Department Store Ikebukuro?

Tobu Department Store Ikebukuro is a well-known shopping center in the lively Ikebukuro district of Tokyo, Japan. It offers a wide range of retail options, making it a destination for both locals and visitors seeking a comprehensive shopping experience. The store covers several floors, each focusing on different categories like fashion, beauty, home goods, electronics, and gourmet foods.

A key feature of Tobu Department Store is its dedication to quality and diversity. It presents both luxury brands and budget-friendly choices, appealing to a broad range of customers. The store also includes a notable food hall with a variety of Japanese delicacies and international dishes, catering to those interested in exploring different culinary flavors.

Connected to Ikebukuro Station, one of Tokyo’s major rail junctions, Tobu offers convenient access for those traveling from across the city. In addition to shopping, the department store regularly hosts seasonal events, exhibitions, and cultural displays, such as traditional Japanese games during the winter break, reinforcing its status as both a commercial and cultural hub in Tokyo.

Relive the Quintessential Quintuplets: Final Animation Exhibition Comes to Nagoya! 🎉

Fans of The Quintessential Quintuplets, get ready for one last heartwarming trip down memory lane! To celebrate the anime’s 5th anniversary, the original animation drawing exhibition that captivated Shibuya is making its final stop at Nagoya’s Telepia Hall. This isn’t just a rerun; alongside all the original artwork from the Shibuya exhibit (with some exciting changes!), you’ll find brand-new pieces from the special anime, The Quintessential Quintuplets∬. This is your absolute last chance to experience this comprehensive collection. Rediscover the unique charm of each quintuplet through a showcase of precious animation drawings, capturing their diverse expressions and personalities. Don’t miss out!

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Image Credit: ©Negi Haruba, Kodansha/"The Quintessential Quintuplets∽" Production Committee

Event Details:

• Dates: January 11, 2025 (Saturday) – February 11, 2025 (Tuesday/Holiday)
• Open: Every day during the exhibition period
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:30 PM)
• Venue: Telepia Hall (Telepia 2F, 1-14-25 Higashisakura, Higashi-ku, Nagoya)
• Ticket Price: ¥1,800 (Advance/Same-day)

Getting There:

• From Sakae Station (Higashiyama and Meijo Subway Lines & Meitetsu Seto Line): 5-minute walk east from Exit 4A.
• From Sakaemachi Station (Meitetsu Seto Line): 5-minute walk east from the station.
• From Takaoka Station (Sakuradori Subway Line): 5-minute walk south from the station.
• By Bus: Get off at the "Higashishinmachi" City Bus Stop.

More Information:

• Website: https://telepiahall.com/event/%e3%80%8c%e4%ba%94%e7%ad%89%e5%88%86%e3%81%ae%e8%8a%b1%e5%ab%81%e3%80%8d%e3%82%a2%e3%83%8b%e3%83%a1%e5%8e%9f%e7%94%bb%e5%b1%95-engagement-final/
• Contact: https://telepiahall.com/contact/

What is The Quintessential Quintuplets?

"The Quintessential Quintuplets" is a Japanese anime and manga series known for its blend of romance, comedy, and slice-of-life storytelling. The narrative centers on Futaro Uesugi, a dedicated high school student who takes on the role of tutor for the Nakano sisters: Ichika, Nino, Miku, Yotsuba, and Itsuki. While they are identical in appearance, each sister exhibits a unique personality and attitude toward their studies, presenting Futaro with the challenge of helping them succeed academically.

The series delves into themes such as love, growth, and family connections. Throughout the story, each sister forms a distinctive bond with Futaro, leading to humorous and touching experiences.

Since its release, "The Quintessential Quintuplets" has developed a strong following and received praise for its character development and narrative. Beyond its original manga, the series has been adapted into an anime and several feature films. In celebration of its 5th anniversary, a special exhibition in Nagoya allows fans to engage with exclusive artwork and revisit cherished moments from the series.

Indulge in a Luxurious Strawberry Afternoon Tea High Above Tokyo This January🍓

Escape the ordinary this January and treat yourself to a luxurious strawberry-themed afternoon tea at the Keio Plaza Hotel’s Sky Lounge "Aurora". Located on the 45th floor, you’ll savor delectable strawberry-infused treats while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the Tokyo cityscape. This limited-time offer includes a complimentary glass of sparkling wine to make your experience even more special.🥂

This isn’t just any afternoon tea; it’s a curated culinary journey featuring both sweet and savory delights crafted by the hotel’s talented chefs. Fresh, seasonal strawberries take center stage, adding a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to every bite. And with free-flowing coffee, you can relax, chat, and savor every moment with friends or a loved one. Whether it’s a girls’ get-together or a romantic date, this is the perfect setting to create unforgettable memories.

What makes this afternoon tea experience unique? Besides the stunning city views and the focus on seasonal strawberries, the complimentary glass of sparkling wine elevates the experience, adding a touch of celebration to your afternoon. This sets it apart from previous afternoon tea offerings at the Sky Lounge.

Event Details:

• Location: Keio Plaza Hotel, Sky Lounge "Aurora" (Hotel Details)
• Nearest Stations: Tochomae Station (1-minute walk), Shinjuku West Exit Station (5-minute walk), Shinjuku Station (5-minute walk)
• Address: 〒160-8330 Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Nishi-Shinjuku 2-2-1 (Map)
• Dates: January 1st (Wed/Holiday) – January 31st (Fri), 2025. Closed on Sundays. Business hours on public holidays will follow the respective weekday schedule. (Open 7 days a week from Sunday, February 2nd, 2025. Check the official website for details.)
• Time: 3-hour seating limit (Last order 30 minutes prior)
• Price: From ¥6,500 (including tax and service charge)
• Official Website: Sky Lounge Aurora / Keio Plaza Hotel

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Please note: Published content is subject to change. Always check the official website for the latest information.

What is Tokyo Sky Lounge "Aurora"?

Tokyo Sky Lounge "Aurora" is a dining venue located high above the streets of Tokyo, offering a combination of upscale ambiance and panoramic views of the city’s skyline. Situated in one of Tokyo’s tallest buildings, Aurora is a destination for those seeking a refined culinary experience with impressive scenery. The lounge features an interior with floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing guests to enjoy the cityscape while dining. Its menu includes seasonal themed offerings, such as the "Strawberry Afternoon Tea 2025," which features strawberry-infused delicacies. Aurora’s focus on quality and its location make it an appealing choice for locals and tourists interested in dining with a view above the city.