✨ Dazzle Your Nights at Nagoya Port’s Winter Illumination ✨

Get ready to be enchanted! Nagoya Port is transforming into a breathtaking wonderland of light this winter, with a dazzling display of approximately 145,000 LED lights illuminating the Nagoya Port Garden Pier Seaside Green Park (Tsudoi no Hiroba) and the area in front of the Nagoya Port Aquarium. Building on last year’s captivating waterfall of lights, central tree, and heart-shaped displays, this year’s event introduces cozy rest areas, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere and enjoy the illuminations at your own pace.

Featured in this Special Guide!

Nagoya Illumination Special Feature 2024-2025

What’s new this year? Relax and soak in the ambiance with the addition of strategically placed rest areas throughout the illuminated zones. This enhancement offers a more comfortable and immersive experience compared to previous years, allowing visitors to truly savor the magical atmosphere.

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Event Details:

• Dates: Daily from December 6th (Lighting ceremony at 6:00 PM on opening day)
• Illumination Hours: 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM
• Locations: Nagoya Port Garden Pier Seaside Green Park, Tsudoi no Hiroba, Nagoya Port Aquarium front, Main Entrance Stairs
• Admission: Free
• Contact: Nagoya Port Winter Festivities Executive Committee Secretariat (Weekdays 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM) – 052-654-7894
• Easy Access: Directly from Nagoya Port Station (last stop) on the Meiko Subway Line

Overview of Nagoya Port

Nagoya Port, situated in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, Japan, ranks among the country’s largest ports. It is integral to both international trade and the regional economy, efficiently handling a variety of cargo such as automobiles, machinery, and raw materials. Its advanced facilities underscore its role as a prominent industrial center.

In addition to its commercial operations, Nagoya Port is a venue for tourism and leisure. Visitors can explore the Nagoya Port Aquarium, which offers numerous marine exhibits and interactive experiences. The nearby Garden Pier is known for its scenic views, shops, and dining options.

In winter, the port area hosts an annual illumination event, known for its attractive light displays. This dual function as both economic hub and recreational destination highlights Nagoya Port’s importance in the region, reflecting the city’s industriousness and cultural appeal.

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth at The Westin Tokyo’s Weekday Strawberry Dessert Buffet! 🍓

This isn’t just another dessert buffet; it’s a strawberry lover’s dream come true! The Westin Tokyo, celebrating its 30th anniversary, invites you to a weekday escape at "The Terrace," their international restaurant, for a delightful "Strawberry Dessert Buffet."

A Rotating Menu of Strawberry Delights

From January 6th to April 30th, 2025, treat yourself to a symphony of strawberry-infused creations. The menu changes every two months, ensuring a fresh and exciting experience with each visit. Imagine everything from elegant layered desserts in glasses to rich strawberry soups showcasing the pure essence of the fruit, and classic baked goods, all crafted with the finest ingredients by expert pastry chefs. Prepare to be captivated by the sweet and tart aroma filling the air as a world of strawberry desserts unfolds before you.

Must-Try Treats

A highlight of the buffet, available from January to April, is the "Glass Shortcake." This innovative take on a classic dessert captures the essence of shortcake with layers of fresh strawberries and light, airy cream, all beautifully presented in a glass.

January and February bring the playful British dessert, "Eton Mess," a delightful mix of strawberries, meringue, and cream. Come March and April, indulge in the "Strawberry Tiramisu," where strawberry syrup-soaked sponge cake meets the creamy richness of mascarpone cheese and fresh strawberries, all elegantly served in an espresso glass.

Each dessert is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual masterpiece. Get ready to snap some Instagram-worthy photos!

Dessert Menu Highlights:

• Strawberry and Caramel Parfait
• Caramelized Ricotta Cheese and Strawberries
• Crème Ange with Marinated Strawberries and Cherry Tomatoes
• Cube Cheesecake with Strawberries
• Strawberry and Hazelnut Tart
• Eton Mess
• Strawberry and Yuzu Tart Gratin
• Strawberry and Pistachio Mont Blanc
• Strawberry Tiramisu
• Glass Shortcake

Please note this is a sample menu and items are subject to change.

Buffet Details:

• Location: The Westin Tokyo, International Restaurant "The Terrace" (1F), 1-4-1 Mita, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-8580 (Inside Ebisu Garden Place)
• Nearest Station: Ebisu Station
• Dates: January 6th – April 30th, 2025 (Weekdays only)
• Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Last Order: 4:30 PM, 90-minute limit)
• Price: Adults: ¥6,500 (tax and service included), Children: ¥3,500 (tax and service included)
• Contact: Patisserie by The Westin Tokyo 03-5423-7665
• Official Website: https://www.theterracetokyo.com/jp/
• Map: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=35.64171328,139.71558830
• Hotel Bookings: See hotels near Tokyo

Please check the official website for the latest information as details are subject to change.

What is The Westin Tokyo’s The Terrace restaurant?

The Terrace at The Westin Tokyo is a renowned dining venue located in the heart of the Ebisu district. Known for its elegant yet inviting atmosphere, The Terrace offers a culinary experience that combines international flavors with exquisite presentation. The restaurant features a spacious and stylish interior, designed to complement the lush greenery of its surroundings, providing guests with a tranquil and refreshing escape from the bustling city.

Famous for its diverse buffet offerings, The Terrace caters to a variety of tastes and preferences, from hearty breakfast spreads to decadent dessert selections. Their themed dessert buffets, such as the popular strawberry dessert buffet, are particularly anticipated, showcasing a creative array of sweets crafted from seasonal and high-quality ingredients. With impeccable service and attention to detail, The Terrace ensures every dining experience is memorable, making it a favorite destination for both locals and travelers seeking to indulge in the finer aspects of dining.

Savor Hokkaido’s Finest: A Year-End Gourmet Extravaganza in Ueno!

66 Hokkaido Vendors Bring Mega-Sized Treats and Bargains to Tokyo!

Get ready to indulge in the best of Hokkaido’s culinary scene! From December 12th to 30th, 2024, Ueno’s Matsuzakaya Department Store will host a special Hokkaido Product Fair, featuring 66 vendors—6 of which are making their debut appearance. Prepare for 19 days of delicious discoveries, perfect for elevating your year-end celebrations.

New and Exclusive Dishes to Watch For:

• Sapporo <Men Shōki>’s Hakodate True Kelp Foam Chicken White Soup Truffle-Scented EsCon Special (¥1,480): This popular ramen shop, known for its charismatic owner and award-winning recipes, presents a creamy, kelp-infused chicken white soup ramen—exclusive to this event! Don’t miss this chance to try something you won’t find at their Sapporo branch.
• Sapporo <Senichi Sawada Shoten>’s Manager’s Special Big Catch Set Meal (¥2,480): This luxurious set features a manager-selected extra-large Atka mackerel, seasonal Atka mackerel ponzu, assorted sashimi with live scallops, all-you-can-eat Yumepirika rice, and Hokkaido pork miso soup. (Limited to 50 servings per day)
• Sapporo <Senichi Sawada Shoten>’s Sapporo Central Wholesale Market Direct Delivery Live Fish All-Star Big Catch Bowl (¥3,280): Fresh scallops, turban shells, and shrimp piled high in a visually stunning bowl. (Limited to 50 servings per day)

Hokkaido Sweets:

Indulge your sweet tooth with these delightful treats:

• Sapporo <ISHIYA>’s Shiroi Koibito Roll Cake (Frozen, ¥2,160): (Limited to 108 pieces per day, up to 2 per person)
• Asahikawa <UMEYA>’s Black Cheesecake (Frozen, ¥2,494):
• Kitahiroshima <Emina Donuts>’s Hokkaido Fresh Doughnuts (¥432): (Available December 12th-21st)
• Sapporo <Meme>’s Honey Sweet Potato Beni-Tenshi (¥270):

Winter Luxury Bento Festival:

Experience mega-sized portions and premium ingredients:

• Sapporo <Sushi Ryuugi>’s Hokkaido Seared Scallops and Extra-Large Red King Crab with Botan Shrimp Comparison Premium Seafood Bento (¥3,780): Topped with extra-large red king crab, sweet Botan shrimp, and more! (Limited to 30 servings per day)
• Sapporo <Hachiken-en>’s Saroma Wagyu × Saroma Pork × Grilled Scallops 3-Type Mega-Size Bento (¥3,510): Featuring champion Saroma Wagyu beef and rare Saroma pork.
• Obihiro <Kimiya>’s Five-Type Beef Bento (¥2,980): Aged beef, fillet, and kainomi cuts with sausage and scallops. (Limited to 50 servings per day)
• Sapporo <Charcoal Grill Izakaya Honoo>’s Mega Cheese Tsukune (¥600/skewer, ¥1,000/2 skewers): Three times the normal size!
• Sapporo <Sapporo Ramen Musashi>’s Hokkaido Roasted Pork 3-Type Pork Bento (¥1,998):
• Sapporo <Shion>’s Japan’s No.1 Catch Bento (¥3,240):
• Yoichi <Uni Specialty Shop Seiichiya>’s Half-Dried Sea Urchin & Seared Sea Urchin Comparison Bento (¥2,592):
• Shakotan <Umi no Ya>’s Akadama Scallops and Botan Shrimp Luxurious 11-Type Assortment (¥3,402): (Limited to 50 servings per day)

Affordable Luxury Bento Boxes (¥1,080):

Daily limited quantities available from 10:00 AM:

• Obihiro <Kimiya>’s Three-Type Beef Bento: (Limited to 80 servings per day)
• Yoichi <Uni Specialty Shop Seiichiya>’s Half-Dried Sea Urchin Rice Half: (Limited to 80 servings per day)

Hachiken-en, Sushi Ryuugi, Shion (all Sapporo), and Wanya (Hakodate – from 3:00 PM daily) will also offer limited quantities of ¥1,080 bento boxes. (Limited to 80 servings per day per shop, up to 2 per person per brand)

Seafood Bargains:

Don’t miss the special deals on imperfect but equally delicious seafood items:

• Kitami <Abashiri Suisan>’s Boiled Snow Crab Legs (Frozen, 1kg, ¥3,500): Due to blemishes/irregular shapes

Christmas and New Year’s Treats:

• Sapporo <Pullman Bakery>’s Stollen (¥2,500): (Limited to 20 loaves per day, Available December 12th-21st)
• Otaru <Wakadori Jidai Naruto>’s Half Roasted Young Chicken (¥1,180):
• Sapporo <Kita Maruyama Marche>’s Boiled Hairy Crab (Frozen, 570g, ¥8,640):
• Hakodate <Yamacho Hasegawa Shoten>’s Hokkaido Salmon Roe Soy Sauce Marinated (¥2,500/100g):

More Hokkaido Favorites:

Find popular brands like <Snaffles>, <Rokkatei>, <Royce>, and <POTATO FARM>.

All prices include tax.

Event Details:

• Location: Matsuzakaya Ueno Store 6th Floor Event Space (Link to Matsuzakaya Ueno Store)
• Nearest Stations: Ueno-hirokoji Station, Okachimachi Station, Ueno-okachimachi Station
• Address: 〒110-8503 Tokyo, Taito-ku, Ueno 3-29-5 (Google Maps Link)
• Dates: December 12th (Thursday) – December 30th (Monday), 2024
• Time: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Closes at 5:00 PM on the last day)
• Official Website: Scheduled to be published on December 6th at 10:00 AM

Published content may be subject to change. Please check the venue’s or organizer’s official website for the latest information.

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What makes Hokkaido’s food products distinctive from other Japanese regions?

Hokkaido’s food products stand out due to the region’s unique climate, rich natural resources, and agricultural practices that contribute to the exceptional quality and flavor of its produce. Known as Japan’s breadbasket, Hokkaido benefits from a colder climate, which is ideal for growing certain crops and raising livestock. This results in fresh, high-quality dairy products, including milk, cheese, and butter, that are renowned throughout Japan.

The pristine waters surrounding Hokkaido also contribute to its renowned seafood offerings. The local fishing industry supplies some of the freshest and most diverse seafood, from succulent crabs and salmon to sea urchins and scallops, which are highly prized for their taste and texture.

Additionally, Hokkaido’s fertile volcanic soil supports the cultivation of premium produce such as potatoes, corn, and melons. These agricultural products are celebrated for their sweetness and tenderness, making them popular not only in local markets but also across the nation.

The culmination of these factors, combined with Hokkaido’s dedication to traditional craftsmanship and innovative food processing techniques, results in an array of distinctive regional delicacies that capture the essence of Japan’s northernmost island.

Ring in 2025 with Casino Glamour at The Westin Tokyo! 🥂

Casino Countdown 2024-2025: A Unique New Year’s Eve in Ebisu

Want to experience the thrill of Vegas right here in Tokyo? This New Year’s Eve, The Westin Hotel Tokyo is transforming its first-floor lobby lounge, "The Lounge," into a dazzling, one-night-only casino experience. 🎉 Get ready for Casino Countdown 2024-2025!

This isn’t your average New Year’s Eve party. Experience the authentic thrill of a casino with real dealers, and try your hand at five exciting games: Poker, Double Roulette, Mini Baccarat, Blackjack, and Big Six. Everyone walks away with a participation prize, and the more chips you collect, the more luxurious the prizes become!

As the clock ticks down to the new year, enjoy the smooth jazz vocals of Aimee Blackschleger, accompanied by a live band. Indulge in delectable "Luxury Bites" hors d’oeuvres and free-flowing Moët & Chandon champagne. For a truly VIP experience, opt for a seated plan and savor the exclusive "Luxury Bites Plate" menu crafted by the executive chef.

Ready for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration? Join us at The Westin Tokyo for a night of glitz, glamour, and games.

What Awaits You:

• Amusement Casino: Roulette, Poker, Blackjack, Big Six, and Mini Baccarat with real dealers.
• Live Music: Jazzy tunes by Aimee Blackschleger (Vo) with a live band (bass, guitar, and drums).
• Gourmet Delights: "Luxury Bites" hors d’oeuvres, "Luxury Bites Plate" (seated plan), and free-flowing Moët & Chandon champagne.
• Luxury Prizes: Win big with your casino chips!

Event Details:

• Venue: Lobby Lounge "The Lounge" & Executive Bar "The Bar" (1F), Westin Hotel Tokyo
• Nearest Station: Ebisu Station
• Address: 〒153-8580 Tokyo, Meguro-ku, Mita 1-4-1, within Ebisu Garden Place Map
• Date: December 31, 2024 (Tuesday)
• Time: Doors Open: 9:30 PM, Event Starts: 10:00 PM, Close: 12:30 AM

Ticket Options:

• Standing Plan: ￥16,000～ per person (tax and service charge included). Includes Luxury Bites, dry snacks, and a 120-minute free flow of Moët & Chandon champagne, red/white wine, beer, cocktails, and soft drinks.
• Seated Plan (The Bar): ￥108,000～ per group (up to 4 people, tax and service charge included). Includes Luxury Bites Plate, dry snacks, a bottle of Dom Pérignon, and a 120-minute free flow of Moët & Chandon champagne, red/white wine, beer, cocktails, and soft drinks.
• Seated Plan (The Lounge): ￥118,000～ per group (up to 5 people, tax and service charge included). Includes Luxury Bites Plate, dry snacks, a bottle of Dom Pérignon, and a 120-minute free flow of Moët & Chandon champagne, red/white wine, beer, cocktails, and soft drinks.

Book Your Spot: Westin Hotel Tokyo Reservations

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

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What is The Westin Tokyo?

The Westin Tokyo is a luxurious hotel situated in the vibrant and sophisticated Ebisu district of Tokyo, Japan. Renowned for its exceptional hospitality and world-class amenities, the hotel offers guests a serene and rejuvenating retreat in the heart of the bustling city. The Westin Tokyo seamlessly blends classic European elegance with modern comfort, creating an inviting atmosphere that caters to both business and leisure travelers.

Guests can indulge in beautifully appointed rooms and suites, each designed with plush furnishings and thoughtful details to ensure a restful stay. The hotel features an array of dining options, from upscale restaurants serving international and local cuisines to cozy lounges perfect for relaxing with a drink. In keeping with the Westin brand’s emphasis on wellness, the hotel offers a fully equipped fitness studio, spa facilities, and wellness-inspired programs to invigorate and refresh guests during their stay.

The Westin Tokyo is also well-equipped for hosting events, offering versatile meeting spaces and banquet halls that can accommodate everything from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. Whether exploring the city’s cultural landmarks, enjoying a shopping spree, or attending business meetings, The Westin Tokyo provides a luxurious home base, exemplifying the hospitality and service excellence that guests have come to expect from the Westin brand.