Slurp Your Way Through Ramen EXPO 2024 and Gyoza EXPO at Expo Park!

Get ready, ramen lovers! Expo Commemorative Park is transforming into a noodle paradise for Ramen EXPO 2024, one of western Japan’s largest ramen events. From November 23rd to December 30th, prepare to dive into a steaming bowl of deliciousness from 65 ramen shops handpicked from across Japan by ramen industry expert Hiroshi Osaki and top Kansai gourmet bloggers.

But that’s not all! The ever-popular Gyoza EXPO is back, serving up perfectly pan-fried dumplings to complement your ramen feast. And for those looking for unique treasures, the LOHAS Festa Expo handmade goods market offers a delightful shopping experience. Plus, celebrate the event’s 10th anniversary with Yoshimoto Manzai Live and a special talk event featuring Slim Club and Hibiki!

As a special treat, "Illumi Night Expo" returns with a dazzling projection mapping display on the Tower of the Sun – a spectacle not seen in six years! This year’s production is a collaboration between creative company NAKED, INC. and Osaka students, showcasing a journey through time and space, from ancient history to the future, culminating in the excitement of the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo.

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Ramen EXPO 2024 Dates and Times:

• Part 1: November 23rd (Sat/Holiday) & 24th (Sun)
• Part 2: November 29th (Fri) – December 1st (Sun)
• Part 3: December 6th (Fri) – 8th (Sun)
• Part 4: December 13th (Fri) – 15th (Sun)
• Part 5: December 20th (Fri) – 22nd (Sun)
• Part 6: December 28th (Sat) – 30th (Mon)

Daily Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Last order at 8:30 PM, Park entry until 8:30 PM)

Location:

Expo Commemorative Park, Festival Plaza (1 Senribanpakukoen, Suita City, Osaka Prefecture)

Cost:

• Park Admission: Adults 260 yen, Elementary and Junior High School Students 80 yen
• Ramen Tickets: 1 bowl 1000 yen, 2-bowl set 1900 yen, 3-bowl set 2850 yen (Cash only for ticket purchases at the event)

Contact:

Ramen EXPO Office / City Life NEW Co., Ltd. (06-6338-0641)

Website:

https://ramen-expo.com

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What is Osaka’s Expo Park?

Osaka’s Expo Park, also known as Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, is a sprawling public space located in Suita, Osaka Prefecture. It was originally the site of the 1970 World’s Fair, the first to be held in Japan, which celebrated themes of progress and harmony. Today, the park serves as a cultural and recreational hub, attracting both locals and tourists with its vast array of attractions. Visitors can explore beautifully manicured gardens, such as the Japanese Garden famous for its seasonal colors, or ride a pedal boat on the scenic pond. The park is also home to the iconic Tower of the Sun, a symbol of the Expo reminiscent of its forward-thinking spirit. In addition to its natural beauty, Expo Park hosts a variety of cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year, making it an ideal venue for large-scale events like the Ramen EXPO and Gyoza EXPO, where culinary enthusiasts can indulge in delicious Japanese street food amidst the historic and serene setting.

Brave the Flames, Embrace Your Fortune: Akihabara Grand Festival’s Fire Walking Ceremony 🔥

Want to leave last year’s misfortunes behind and ignite your luck for the new year? Then prepare for a truly unique experience: the Akihabara Grand Festival’s Fire Walking Ceremony! Held annually on December 16th, this exhilarating event allows you to participate in an ancient tradition by walking barefoot across a blazing bonfire. This isn’t just any festival; it’s a powerful ritual honoring Akiha Daigongen, the revered God of Fire, at the sacred Atsuta Akibasan Entsuji Temple.

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Event Details:

• Date: December 16th
• Time:
  • Grand Prayer Service: 8:00 AM
  • Fire Walking Ceremony: Around 7:00 PM (giving you plenty of time to explore the area!)
• Venue: Atsuta Akibasan Entsuji Temple
• Contact: 0120-560-566
• Website: http://www.akibasan.or.jp/

Getting There:

The temple is conveniently located near public transport:

• Subway: A short 3-minute walk north from Exit 1 of "Atsuta Jingu Tenmacho" Station on the Meijo Subway Line.
• Train: A quick 5-minute walk south from the West Exit of "Jingu-mae" Station on the Meitetsu Nagoya Main Line.

What is Akihabara?

Akihabara, often affectionately referred to as "Akiba," is a vibrant district located in the heart of Tokyo, Japan. Renowned worldwide as a mecca for anime, manga, and video game enthusiasts, it is a bustling hub that beautifully blends Japan’s rich traditions with cutting-edge modernity. This neon-lit wonderland offers a sensory overload, with multi-story electronics stores, themed cafes, and shops filled with every imaginable type of pop culture merchandise.

Historically, Akihabara gained prominence post-World War II as a center for electronics and household appliance vendors. However, in recent decades, it has evolved into the ultimate destination for otaku culture, attracting fans from all over the globe. Streets are lined with shops selling everything from the latest video game releases to rare manga collections, action figures, and cosplay costumes.

Beyond its commercial allure, Akihabara is also a gathering place for a diverse community of enthusiasts who relish in exploring their passions and connecting with like-minded individuals. Whether you’re interested in trying out immersive virtual reality experiences, enjoying a themed pop-up cafe, or participating in one of its many vibrant events, Akihabara offers an unparalleled tapestry of entertainment and cultural discovery. It is a place where fantasy and reality coexist, inviting all visitors to immerse themselves in the endless possibilities of imagination and creativity.

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth at the Waterside Bread & Sweets Festival!

(Sunday, December 1st)

Prepare for a delectable experience at the first-ever waterside Bread & Sweets Festival, taking place at Kawa no Eki Hachikenya on Sunday, December 1st! This unique event brings together nine fantastic local bakeries and sweet shops for a day of pure indulgence.

Discover treats from renowned vendors like Kouran, famous in Kobe’s Nankinmachi, and savor the irresistibly chewy "mochi bread" from PANE PORCINI. Don’t miss the creations from Horaido, a two-time winner of the Bread & Sweets Festival popularity vote!

As a bonus treat, head upstairs to the "Tenka no Daidokoro Hachikenyahama-ichi" market on the same day for some incredible sushi bargains.

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Event Details:

• Date: Sunday, December 1st, 2024
• Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Location: Kawa no Eki Hachikenya B1F, Station 8 (Osaka City, Chuo Ward, Kitahamahigashi 1-2 Kawa no Eki Hachikenya)
• Admission: Free
• Contact: [email protected]
• Website: https://8ken-ya.osaka/event/1643/

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What is Kawa no Eki Hachikenya?

Kawa no Eki Hachikenya is a vibrant riverside station located in Osaka, known for its picturesque setting and rich cultural heritage. Nestled along the waterfront, it serves as a hub for both locals and tourists seeking to explore the beauty of the city from the vantage of its historic waterways. Originally a key point for water transportation and trade, Kawa no Eki Hachikenya has transformed into a lively community space that hosts various events and activities throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy scenic boat rides, immerse themselves in cultural exhibitions, and partake in local festivals that celebrate Osaka’s unique blend of tradition and modernity. Its strategic location makes it an ideal spot for events such as the Osaka Waterside Bread & Sweets Festival, where attendees can indulge in a wide array of delicious baked goods and sweets while soaking in the serene riverside atmosphere.

Takanawa Christmas 2024: Where Light Blossoms into Story

Experience the magic of Christmas at the Prince Hotels in Takanawa, Tokyo, from November 23rd to December 25th, 2024. This year’s theme, "Flowers of Light Blooming in a Story," promises a unique celebration interwoven with the rich, century-old history of the Takanawa area.

Imagine strolling through a beautifully illuminated Japanese garden, aglow with the soft shimmer of bamboo lights. This captivating display sets Takanawa Christmas apart, offering a serene escape within the bustling city. The illuminations symbolize the connection between people and the enduring spirit of Takanawa, creating a truly special Christmas experience.

Festive Highlights

The festivities begin with a heartwarming illumination lighting ceremony, offering a sneak peek into the Christmas spirit. Join in a participatory event within the Japanese garden, expressing gratitude to hotel guests and local residents alike. Enjoy enchanting performances by a local handbell circle and a mesmerizing candle service, culminating in a unified countdown and the simultaneous lighting of candles. These shared moments, like flowers of light, will bloom into cherished memories.

This year’s Takanawa Christmas offers a range of experiences to create lasting memories:

• Kids Patissier Experience: Unleash your inner pastry chef alongside the hotel’s talented professionals and create your own gingerbread house—a perfect Christmas activity for the whole family.
• Santa Claus Greetings: Capture the Christmas spirit with a commemorative photo alongside Santa Claus in the hotel lobby.
• Here Comes Santa! (Accommodation Plan): Surprise your loved ones with a visit from Santa himself, delivering presents right to your hotel room. This popular accommodation plan guarantees an unforgettable Christmas morning.
• Christmas Dinner with Live Music: Indulge in an elegant Christmas dinner, accompanied by the enchanting melodies of live piano and violin performances.

Event Details

Dates: November 23rd (Sat/Holiday) – December 25th (Wed) Specific event dates may vary.

Venues & Access:

• The Prince Sakura Tower Tokyo: 3-minute walk from Shinagawa Station / 5-minute walk from Takanawadai Station
• Grand Prince Hotel New Takanawa: 3-minute walk from Takanawadai Station / 5-minute walk from Shinagawa Station
• Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa: 5-minute walk from Shinagawa Station / 3-minute walk from Takanawadai Station

Official Website: https://www.princehotels.co.jp/takanawa/informations/christmas/ Please check the official website for detailed information on each event.

Please note that published content is subject to change. For the latest information, please refer to the official website of the venue/organizer.

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What is Takanawa?

Takanawa is a vibrant district located in the Minato ward of Tokyo, Japan. Known for its blend of traditional culture and modern conveniences, Takanawa serves as a gateway to various attractions in Tokyo. The area is home to iconic landmarks, luxury hotels, and serene gardens that offer a tranquil escape from the bustling urban environment. Takanawa’s rich history is reflected in its architecture and local practices, providing visitors with both historical insights and contemporary experiences. The district is particularly enchanting during the holiday season when it transforms into a winter wonderland, illuminated with festive decorations and captivating light displays, making it a perfect locale for the "Flowers of Light" Illumination event.

A Dog-Friendly Christmas Afternoon Tea in Tokyo! 🐶🎄

Celebrate the Festive Season at Applause Square Tokyo Guest House

This Christmas, treat yourself and your furry friend to a unique afternoon tea experience at Applause Square Tokyo Guest House – the only place in the Kanto region where you can enjoy this festive tradition with your dog! Indulge in a delightful array of Christmas-themed treats, from reindeer cream puffs to Santa hat mousse, all while creating unforgettable memories with your beloved companion.

A Festive Feast for the Senses

Our Christmas afternoon tea features a playful assortment of sweet and savory delights:

• Sweet Treats: Six delectable desserts await, including reindeer praline cream puffs, elegant strawberry and milk panna cotta Noel Verrines, pistachio ganache montés shaped like Christmas trees, white bear chocolate snow globes, Santa hat raspberry mousse, and white chocolate mousse with berry jelly.
• Savory Bites: Complementing the sweets are savory options like Camembert fries with prosciutto and raspberry crisps, and open-faced chicken Genovese beet bread sandwiches.
• Freshly Baked Scones: Enjoy two kinds of scones – strawberry & raspberry and plain – served with salted clotted cream, strawberry jam, and honey. Their crispy exterior and moist, light interior make them the perfect accompaniment to your tea.

A Perfect Pairing: Tea and Treats

Choose from two drink plans:

• Standard Plan: Enjoy unlimited refills of a variety of teas, coffee, and soft drinks.
• Tea Selection Plan: Upgrade your experience with unlimited refills from the renowned French tea brand "Mariage Frères," in addition to the standard plan beverages.

Spoil Your Pup!

Don’t leave your furry friend out of the festivities! We offer a special dog menu crafted by our in-house chefs:

• Dog Plate Lunch: ¥1,000
• Dog Cake: ¥1,000

Make it a Celebration!

Add a touch of magic to your afternoon tea with optional extras:

• Cuddly Christmas Teddy Bear: A perfect festive companion for your tea time.
• Princess Shortcake: A two-layered strawberry shortcake in smoky pink and white.
• "Oshikatsu" Cake: A vibrant five-color (red, blue, yellow, green, purple) cake.
• Personalized Message Plate: ¥500 (Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or special occasions).

Event Details:

• Dates: November 21st, 28th, 29th, December 5th, 6th, 12th, 19th, and 20th, 2024
• Time: 1st Session: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM (Reception opens at 11:45 AM)
• Location: Applause Square Tokyo Guest House (Akebonobashi Station)
• Address: 3-5 Ichigaya Nakanocho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 〒162-0064 Map
• Pricing:
  • Standard Plan: ¥4,500 per person (¥5,100 with teddy bear)
  • Tea Selection Plan: ¥5,000 per person (¥5,600 with teddy bear)
  • Lunch Included Plan: From ¥6,000 per person
• Official Website: https://www.bestbridal.co.jp/guestparty/event/applause%5Fichigaya/2024event-59/

Book your Christmas Afternoon Tea experience today!

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Please note: Menu items are subject to change based on ingredient availability. Please check the official website for the latest information.

What is Applause Square?

Applause Square is a vibrant and inviting venue in Tokyo, renowned for its unique fusion of contemporary design and traditional Japanese aesthetics. This versatile space hosts a variety of cultural and social events, attracting both locals and tourists who seek memorable experiences in the city. Offering an array of amenities and beautifully landscaped areas, Applause Square serves as the perfect setting for gatherings and celebrations, including their special dog-friendly Christmas Afternoon Tea. It provides a welcoming atmosphere where pet owners can indulge in seasonal delights alongside their furry companions, ensuring a festive and inclusive experience for all guests.