Takanawa Cherry Blossom Festival

A Three-Month Celebration of Spring at the Prince Hotel

The Takanawa Sakura Festival, held at the Prince Hotel in Tokyo’s Takanawa area, offers an extended opportunity to enjoy the beauty of cherry blossoms. The hotel’s expansive 20,000㎡ Japanese garden is home to approximately 210 cherry trees, representing 17 distinct varieties. Due to the differing blooming periods of these varieties, visitors can experience the spectacle of cherry blossoms for roughly three months.

Beyond the floral display, the festival, in collaboration with Kyoto City, incorporates traditional Japanese cultural experiences. These include "Wagashi (Japanese sweets) making" and "Gold-leaf tote bag making" workshops. The festival’s diverse offerings extend to morning yoga and tea ceremony experiences amidst the cherry blossoms, as well as a "Sakura Stamp Rally" encouraging exploration of the garden and hotel grounds.

As evening descends, the Japanese garden transforms with bamboo light and cherry blossom illuminations. A particular highlight is the projection mapping display on the Kannon-do Hall, available for a limited time during the event.

Basic Information

• Location/Nearest Station:
  • Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa: Shinagawa Station (5-minute walk) / Takanawadai Station (3-minute walk)
  • The Prince Sakura Tower Tokyo: Shinagawa Station (3-minute walk) / Takanawadai Station (5-minute walk)
  • Grand Prince Hotel New Takanawa: Shinagawa Station (5-minute walk) / Takanawadai Station (3-minute walk)
• Venue: The Prince Sakura Tower Tokyo, Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa, Takanawa Hanakaori, Grand Prince Hotel New Takanawa
• Event Period: March 7, 2025 (Friday) – April 13, 2025 (Sunday)
  • Note: Some events have limited availability.
• Fees: Vary depending on the event. Viewing the Japanese garden is free of charge.
• Illumination:
  • Event Period: March 7, 2025 (Friday) – April 13, 2025 (Sunday)
  • Event Time: 4:30 PM – 12:00 AM
  • Note: The Japanese garden illumination is a year-round feature. The limited-time bamboo light illumination of the cherry blossoms is exclusive to the festival period.
• Inquiries: Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa (Main) – 03-3447-1111
• Official Website: Takanawa Sakura Festival 2025
• Information for Rainy Weather: The festival will proceed regardless of rain. Outdoor events may be subject to venue changes depending on weather conditions.

Published contents are subject to change. For the latest information, please check the official website of the venue/organizer.

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What is Takanawa?

Takanawa is a district in the Minato ward of Tokyo, Japan, offering a mix of traditional and modern elements. It provides insight into both historical and contemporary Japanese culture. The area is noted for its scenic beauty, especially during cherry blossom season, when the streets and parks are filled with pink blooms. Takanawa hosts various cultural landmarks, hotels, and dining options, attracting both locals and tourists. Its proximity to major transportation hubs, like Shinagawa Station, makes it a convenient location for exploring Tokyo.

HANGYODON CAFE ～40th Anniversary～

A Delightful Celebration of Sanrio’s Beloved Merman

Sanrio’s popular merman character, Hangyodon, is turning 40, and what better way to celebrate than with a themed cafe experience? Opening in 2025, this limited-time cafe offers a unique opportunity for fans – particularly those of Generation Z, who have embraced Hangyodon’s unique charm – to immerse themselves in the world of this beloved character and his friends. The cafe’s theme centers around hanami, the traditional Japanese custom of cherry blossom viewing, promising a vibrant and festive atmosphere.

The cafe, located at BOX cafe&space Q Plaza Harajuku, is easily accessible from Meiji-jingumae (Harajuku) Station. It will be open from March 6th to April 20th, 2025, operating in accordance with the store’s business hours. The address is: 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya-ku, Jingumae 6-28-6 Q Plaza Harajuku 3F (MAP).

A Culinary Journey with Hangyodon

The menu is thoughtfully designed to reflect the cherry blossom viewing theme, featuring Hangyodon enjoying the festivities with his friend Sayuri. It offers a diverse selection of Chinese-inspired dishes and Instagram-worthy desserts, all presented with a distinctive pink hue.

Savory Options:

• Hangyodon’s Happy Yum Cha (2,090 yen, tax included): This dim sum set features a meat bun adorned with Hangyodon’s face, accompanied by shumai, peach buns, and other delicacies. It also includes Hangyodon’s favorite shrimp crackers and almond tofu, providing a refreshing palate cleanser. Guests can enjoy refillable jasmine tea, enhancing the dining experience.
• Hangyodon’s Spicy Chinese Restaurant (1,690 yen, tax included): For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this set menu offers Hangyodon-colored rice, twice-cooked pork, and a mala-flavored soup with a two-star spice level. Diners are encouraged to customize their meal by adding toppings to the soup or combining the rice and soup.
• Hangyodon’s Sakura Manten Cold Chinese Noodles (1,590 yen, tax included): A returning favorite from the previous year, this dish features Hangyodon’s beloved cold Chinese noodles, now presented with a cherry blossom theme. Pink ingredients like red radish, ham, and smoked salmon add to the visual appeal.

Sweet Treats:

• Hangyodon 40th Anniversary Celebration Cake (1,690 yen, tax included): Celebrate Hangyodon’s milestone with this adorable cake, inspired by the event’s key visual.
• Hangyodon and Sayuri’s Cherry Blossom Viewing Parfait: This parfait captures the essence of hanami, with layers of cornflakes, white peach, and milk pudding. Cotton candy represents the cherry blossoms, while grissini mimic the tree trunk.
• Hangyodon, Spring Hot Spring Mood (1,390 yen, tax included): This visually appealing dessert presents a cherry blossom-colored tofu pudding, evoking the image of Hangyodon relaxing in a cherry blossom hot spring. It’s a refreshing combination of vanilla ice cream, fruit, shiratama dango, tapioca, and more.

Beverages:

• Haruranman Float (1,090 yen, tax included): A returning favorite, the Bonyari Float, is now available in a cherry blossom color. This lactic acid bacteria float drink features strawberry ice cream shaped like Hangyodon’s face, complete with a charming expression as he gazes at the three-colored dango on his head.
• Sakura Blossom Latte (990 yen, tax included): This latte combines the flavors of cherry blossom and strawberry, topped with whipped cream and feuilletine to represent a cherry blossom blizzard. It comes with a randomly selected straw tag as a take-home souvenir.
• Peach Spring Tea Soda (990 yen, tax included): A refreshing peach tea soda with a spring-like color, also accompanied by a randomly selected straw tag.

Side Drinks:

A selection of classic beverages is also available, including Hot Coffee, Hot Tea, Iced Coffee, Iced Tea, Cola, Orange, and Ginger Ale, each priced at 690 yen (tax included). Please note that these side drinks do not count towards the one-order requirement and are not eligible for drink benefits.

Exclusive Benefits and Merchandise

To enhance the experience, the cafe offers special benefits:

• Cafe Usage Benefit (Limited to Advance Reservations): Guests who make advance reservations (600 yen, 660 yen tax included, per person) and order from the menu will receive a randomly selected "Photo Props" (4 types available).
• Menu Order Benefit: For every 3,300 yen (tax included) spent on the menu, guests will receive a "Scented Postcard" with a cherry blossom scent.

In addition to the culinary delights, a range of original merchandise will be available for purchase:

• Acrylic Keychain (7 random types): 770 yen (tax included)
• Can Badge (7 random types): 605 yen (tax included)
• Acrylic Mini Figure (6 random types): 990 yen (tax included)
• Cushion Keychain: 1,210 yen (tax included)
• Clear Pouch: 1,540 yen (tax included)
• Mini Towel: 1,430 yen (tax included)
• Mug Cup: 1,980 yen (tax included)

For detailed information on the merchandise, please refer to the official website.

This Hangyodon Cafe promises a memorable experience for fans, combining a unique culinary journey with the charm of Sanrio’s beloved character. It’s a perfect way to celebrate Hangyodon’s 40th anniversary and enjoy the beauty of the cherry blossom season.

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

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Who is Hangyodon?

Hangyodon is a character created by the Japanese company Sanrio, which is known for its collection of charming characters. Introduced in 1985, Hangyodon is a blue fish-like creature with a humorous personality. He is often shown with a wide grin and a fin on his head. Despite his clumsy nature, Hangyodon aspires to be a hero. Over the years, he has become popular for his charm and relatable dreams. As part of Sanrio’s lineup, Hangyodon has been featured on various merchandise, including stationery and plush toys. Celebrating his 40th anniversary, Hangyodon continues to be a favorite among fans, representing the playful spirit typical of Sanrio characters.

You and Idol Pretty Cure♪ Exhibition ~The Moment We Meet~

"I want to see you, my beloved! Let’s enjoy a sparkling and glittering time together!"

The You and Idol Pretty Cure♪ Exhibition ~The Moment We Meet~ offers a deep dive into the world of Idol Pretty Cure, featuring interactive exhibits and fan-focused activities. Attendees can immerse themselves in the "Oshikatsu Room," designed for fans to engage in Oshikatsu (fan activities), or discover their ideal Pretty Cure match through the "Oshi Pretty Cure Diagnosis," administered by the character Pururun. The exhibition space itself will be adorned with decorations inspired by the Idol Pretty Cure aesthetic.

©ABC-A・Toei Animation

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Event Details:

• Dates: March 15, 2025 (Saturday) – April 20, 2025 (Sunday)
• Closed: Open daily during the exhibition period.
• Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Last entry is 30 minutes before closing, at 4:30 PM).
• Venue: Telepia Hall (2F Telepia Building, 1-14-25 Higashi-sakura, Higashi-ku, Nagoya, 〒461-0005)

Ticket Pricing:

Visitors have several ticketing options, differentiated by age and the inclusion of bonus goods:

• Regular Ticket:
  • Advance Purchase: Adult (Junior high school students and above): 1,800 yen; Child (3 years old – elementary school students): 1,000 yen.
  • Same-Day Purchase: Adult: 2,000 yen; Child: 1,200 yen.
• Admission Ticket with Bonus Goods (Limited Quantity):
  • This ticket includes a newly drawn, main visual foil-stamped acrylic panel.
  • Advance Purchase: 5,000 yen.
  • Same-Day Purchase: 5,200 yen. Sales of this ticket type will cease once the limited quantity is sold out.

Important Pricing Notes:

• Children under 3 years old are granted free admission, provided they are accompanied by a guardian who has a paid general admission ticket.
• Individuals possessing a disability certificate (including Physical Disability Certificate, Mental Disability Certificate, Rehabilitation Certificate, Pediatric Chronic Disease Certificate, A-bomb Survivor’s Certificate) or a Specific Disease Medical Allowance Recipient Certificate are entitled to have one accompanying caregiver enter free of charge. This provision extends to those presenting a digital disability certificate via smartphone (Mirairo ID). Please note that the person with the disability is still required to purchase a ticket.
• All attendees are advised to review the precautions listed on the official event website prior to their visit.

Contact Information:

• Organizer: Me～Tele
• Telephone: 052-331-9966 (Available weekdays from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM)
• Website: https://www.toei-anim.co.jp/lp/precure/exh/

Access and Transportation:

The Telepia Hall is conveniently accessible via multiple public transportation options:

• Subway: A 5-minute walk east from Exit 4A of Sakae Station (Higashiyama and Meijo Subway Lines) and Sakaemachi Station (Meitetsu Seto Line). Alternatively, a 5-minute walk south from Takaoka Station (Sakuradori Subway Line).
• City Bus: Disembark at the "Higashishinmachi" city bus stop.

What is Idol Pretty Cure♪?

Idol Pretty Cure♪ is a series within the Pretty Cure franchise, known for its magical girl themes. This installment combines elements of idol culture with the traditional Pretty Cure narrative. In the series, a group of girls become idols with magical powers, tasked with protecting the world from dark forces while also pursuing their dreams in the music industry.

The series is noted for its characters, each with unique personalities and musical skills, which they use to inspire others. Throughout the series, themes of friendship, perseverance, and self-belief are explored. Idol Pretty Cure♪ includes songs and performances that have appealed to audiences.

By merging music, magic, and adventure, Idol Pretty Cure♪ offers a new perspective within the Pretty Cure universe, appealing to fans of both magical girl stories and idol culture.

Ramses the Great and the Gold of the Pharaohs

ACN Ramses the Great Exhibition: Gold of the Pharaohs – The Largest-Ever Touring Exhibition, Authorized by the Egyptian Government, Arrives in Japan

The Ramses the Great Exhibition, a comprehensive and interactive showcase officially authorized by the Egyptian government, will be held at the Ramses Museum at CREVIA BASE Tokyo in Toyosu, nearby Shijō-mae Station. This unprecedented event, running from March 8th, 2025 (Saturday) to September 7th, 2025 (Sunday), offers a unique opportunity to explore the life and legacy of Ramses II, one of ancient Egypt’s most renowned rulers.

Immersive Exploration of Ancient Egypt

This exhibition distinguishes itself through its sheer scale and innovative approach to presenting history. Unlike conventional displays, this event integrates 180 authentic Egyptian artifacts with cutting-edge digital technology, creating a dynamic and engaging experience for visitors. The artifacts, dating back to the New Kingdom period (1539 BC – 1075 BC), include a vast collection of treasures directly related to Ramses the Great and his era.

Among the highlights are priceless objects that have never before left Egypt, such as Ramses the Great’s coffin, exquisite jewelry, a majestic royal mask, animal mummies, and intricately crafted amulets. These artifacts provide a tangible connection to the opulence and artistry of the period.

Recreating the World of Ramses II

Beyond the physical artifacts, the exhibition employs advanced technologies like virtual reality (VR) and projection mapping to reconstruct the world of Ramses the Great. Visitors can embark on a virtual tour of the Abu Simbel Temple, a testament to Ramses II’s architectural ambition, and the tomb of his beloved wife, Nefertari.

The VR experience offers a narrative journey through the afterlife, following Nefertari as she recounts Ramses the Great’s multifaceted role in shaping Egypt – as a military leader, a master builder, and a devout upholder of ancient Egyptian religious traditions. For an additional fee, visitors can experience a heightened sensory experience, utilizing motion chairs to simulate flight through temples and sandstorms, culminating in a virtual encounter with Ramses the Great himself.

Essential Information for Visitors

• Location: Ramses Museum at CREVIA BASE Tokyo, Toyosu (MAP)
• Address: 6-4 Toyosu, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0061
• Nearest Station: Shijō-mae Station
• Dates: March 8th, 2025 (Saturday) – September 7th, 2025 (Sunday)
• Fees (Day-of Ticket Prices):
  • Weekdays: Adults ¥4100, Junior/Senior High School Students ¥3100, Elementary School Students ¥2400
  • Weekends, Holidays, and Designated Days: Adults ¥4300, Junior/Senior High School Students ¥3300, Elementary School Students ¥2600
• Organizer: Ramses the Great Exhibition: Gold of the Pharaohs Executive Committee / NEON JAPAN Co., Ltd.
• Inquiries: Hello Dial (050-5541-8600)
• Official Website: https://ramsesexhibition.jp/

Note: The information provided is subject to change. It is recommended to consult the official websites of the venue and organizers for the most up-to-date details.

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Who was Ramses the Great?

Ramses the Great, or Ramses II, was a prominent pharaoh of ancient Egypt, ruling from 1279 to 1213 BCE during the New Kingdom period. His reign is noted for its military campaigns, extensive building projects, and diplomatic efforts, including the first recorded peace treaty with the Hittites following the Battle of Kadesh.

Ramses II’s 66-year rule saw the construction of significant architectural works, such as the temples at Abu Simbel and the Ramesseum. These structures reflect the artistic and cultural achievements of ancient Egypt.

Beyond his lifetime, Ramses II was revered as a deity and became a symbol of Egypt’s power and prosperity. His era is often viewed as a time of economic stability and cultural development, leaving a lasting legacy in history.

Masterpiece Picture Book Cookie Tin Selection by Cake.jp [GranSta Tokyo]

The Beloved Pop-Up Store Returns to JR East Tokyo Station’s GranSta Tokyo

Following successful events in May and December of 2024, the acclaimed pop-up store Masterpiece Picture Book Cookie Tin Selection by Cake.jp is returning to GranSta Tokyo, inside JR Tokyo Station, for a third iteration. This popular event, which has been held in over 20 locations nationwide — primarily in department stores and train stations — offers a unique and charming experience for visitors of all ages.

A Delightful Collection of Picture Book-Themed Cookies

The pop-up store showcases a carefully curated selection of cookie tins, each inspired by a beloved children’s picture book. These tins are not just containers; they are miniature works of art, meticulously designed to reflect the whimsical worlds found within the pages of classic stories.

This year’s selection features 11 types of original cookie tins, including collaborations with iconic picture books such as "The Very Hungry Caterpillar," "Nontan," and "Gonta and Aki." For those seeking smaller gifts, mini-sized cookie tins of "Don’t Go to Sleep Yet," "Nyan Nyan Nyanko," and "Nezumi-kun no Chokki" are also available.

The cookies themselves are crafted with care, using ingredients that exclude wheat, eggs, and milk, making them a suitable treat for individuals with certain dietary restrictions. The attention to detail extends beyond the visual appeal, ensuring a delicious and inclusive experience.

More Than Just a Cookie

The appeal of these cookie tins extends beyond the edible contents. Once the cookies have been enjoyed, the beautifully designed tins can be repurposed as charming storage containers for accessories or other small items. This lasting quality makes them an ideal gift, perfect for occasions like White Day or simply as a thoughtful gesture.

Featured Cookie Tins and Pricing

Here is a detailed list of the cookie tins available at the event, all of which are priced at 3,300 yen (tax included), unless otherwise noted:

• "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" Cookie Tin
• Nontan’s Birthday Cookie
• "Don’t Go to Sleep Yet" Midnight Cookie
• "Nyan Nyan Nyanko" Cookie
• "Gonta and Aki" Cookie Tin
• "Zou-kun no Sanpo" Cookie Tin
• "Nezumi-kun to Hotcake" Cookie Tin
• "You Look Delicious" Uma-Sou na Cookie
• [Synapushu] Pushu Pushu Henshin Nanda? Cookie
• "Panda Sento" no Maru-Hi Cookie
• "The Bears’ School" Jackie’s Cookie Tin
• "Nyan Nyan Nyanko" Cookie Tin Mini (990 yen, tax included)
• "Don’t Go to Sleep Yet" Cookie Tin Mini (990 yen, tax included)
• "Nezumi-kun to Hotcake" Cookie Tin Mini (990 yen, tax included)

Please note that product availability and details may be subject to change. It is recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Copyright Information

The use of characters and imagery from these beloved picture books is officially licensed:

• Harakepko Aomushi (The Very Hungry Caterpillar): © 2025 Penguin Random House LLC. ERIC CARLE, THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR, THE WORLD OF ERIC CARLE logo, the Caterpillar logo and related designs, logos, and names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of Penguin Random House LLC. All rights reserved. “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” is published by Penguin Random House LLC.
• Nontan: (C) SACHIKO KIYONO / MIKA KIYONO / KAISEI-SHA
• Nenai Ko Dareda (Don’t Go to Sleep Yet): © Keiko Sena 1969
• Noraneko Gundan (Stray Cat Army): © Noriko Kudoh / Hakusensha
• Kont to Aki (Gonta and Aki): ©︎ Akiko Hayashi 1989
• Zou-kun no Sanpo (Zou-kun’s Walk): ©︎ Shotaro Nakano
• Nezumi-kun no Chokki (Nezumi-kun’s Vest): © Nakae Yoshio, Ueno Noriko / Poplar Publishing
• Omae Umasou da na (You Look Delicious): © Tatsuya Miyanishi / Poplar Publishing
• Synapusyu: (C) TV TOKYO / TAKAHARU SHIMIZU / Oizumishoten
• Panda Sento (Panda Public Bath): © tupera tupera / EHONKAN
• Kuma no Gakko (The Bears’ School): ©︎ BANDAI

Event Details

• Location/Nearest Station: GranSta Tokyo, Tokyo Station
• Address: 〒100-0005 Tokyo, Chiyoda-ku, Marunouchi 1-9-1 JR East Tokyo Station B1F/1F (MAP)
• Venue: GranSta Tokyo Event Space chikakita
• Event Period: 2025/03/06 (Thu) – 2025/04/08 (Tue)
• Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Official Website: https://cake.jp/content/145354/

The information provided is subject to change. Please refer to the venue or organizer’s official website for the latest updates.

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What is GranSta Tokyo?

GranSta Tokyo is a shopping and dining complex situated within Tokyo Station, one of the world’s busiest railway hubs. It offers a diverse range of stores, from high-end boutiques to specialty shops featuring traditional Japanese goods. The complex is particularly noted for its gourmet food options, including artisanal sweets, bento boxes, and regional delicacies, appealing to food enthusiasts. GranSta Tokyo also hosts seasonal events and product launches, such as the Masterpiece Picture Book Cookie Tin Selection, attracting visitors interested in limited-edition items and collectible gifts. Its convenient location and variety of shops and eateries make GranSta Tokyo a worthwhile stop for travelers passing through Tokyo.

3/12 (Wed) – 3/24 (Mon): The 4th Pudding Holiday

An image of puddings

The Hanshin Umeda Main Store, at its first-floor "Food Festival Terrace," will once again play host to an event that brings together a collection of heart-fluttering puddings. This year’s iteration—the fourth of its kind— features a gathering of "delicious & cute" puddings, all recommended by the presenter known as the Prince of Pudding, Mr. Takayuki Ikehata. The gustatory delights awaiting discovery are not limited to simple puddings, however.

A special addition has been made to the usual lineup: a Nagoya store-limited pudding parfait, originating from a completely members-only and undisclosed-address parfait bar that spans six locations nationwide, will be available for visitors to enjoy. To add an element of continuous novelty, the lineup will undergo changes between the first and second halves of the event period, offering a full thirteen days during which a diverse range of taste comparisons can be savored, whether at the venue itself or within the comfort of one’s home.

Event Period: March 12th (Wednesday) to March 24th (Monday), 2025

Event Time: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Event Location: Hanshin Umeda Main Store, 1st floor Food Festival Terrace (1-13-13 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka City)

Price: Free Admission

Website: Event details at Hanshin Department Store

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What is Hanshin Umeda?

Hanshin Umeda is a commercial complex situated in Osaka, Japan, known for its lively environment and variety of services. It is a key location for shopping, dining, and entertainment within the Umeda district, a central business and retail area in Osaka. The complex is renowned for its department store, which offers a selection of both local and international brands, attracting residents and tourists alike. Its convenient access to public transportation makes it a practical starting point for exploring Osaka. Events such as the Pudding Holiday highlight Hanshin Umeda’s role as a venue for cultural and culinary events, reflecting the city’s vibrant spirit.