Indulge in a Winter Strawberry Fantasy at Takano Fruit Tiara 🍓

120 Minutes of All-You-Can-Eat Strawberries Await!

This December, Takano Fruit Tiara presents a delightful "Winter Strawberry Fantasy," offering a 120-minute all-you-can-eat strawberry extravaganza. But it’s not just about the mountains of fresh strawberries! Your experience also includes an exquisite afternoon tea set brimming with seasonal delights.

Imagine indulging in a bounty of freshly cut strawberries alongside a tiered masterpiece of sweet and savory treats. Savor the sweetness of strawberry shortcake atop the tea set, and discover other limited-time strawberry creations exclusive to this event.

As a bonus treat, a mini parfait appears on weekdays after 3:00 pm. This delightful dessert layers homemade sherbet, luscious strawberry sauce, and rich diplomat cream, capturing the essence of strawberry aroma and that perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.

What makes this event special? Unlike previous Takano Fruit Tiara events, this one focuses entirely on the queen of winter fruits – the strawberry! It’s a strawberry lover’s paradise.

Here’s what awaits you in the Afternoon Tea Set:

• Top Tier: Light Snow Glass Jelly / Strawberry Shortcake
• Middle Tier: White Mont Blanc Tart / Butter Cream Sandwich Cookies / Heart-Shaped Strawberry and Blueberry / Apple Pie
• Bottom Tier: Soft Salami and Potato Salad Sandwich / Fruit Sandwich / Sweet Potato and Orange Salad

Event Details:

• Location: Takano Fruit Tiara (Shinjuku Station)
• Address: 〒160-0022 Tokyo, Shinjuku-ku, Shinjuku 3-26-11 Shinjuku Takano 5F Map
• Dates: December 1st (Sun) – December 31st (Tue), 2024
• Times: 11:00 / 11:15 / 11:30 / 13:30 / 13:45 / 14:00 / 15:45 / 17:30 / 18:00 (120-minute slots)
• Price: ¥5,500 per person; ¥3,300 for children aged 6-12; Free for children under 6
• Reservations: Book Online (recommended), walk-ins welcome subject to availability. Call 03-5368-5147 to check availability.
• Official Website: https://takano.jp/parlour/originalmenu/detail/fruitstiara/

Important Notes:

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

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What is Takano Fruit Tiara?

Takano Fruit Tiara is a renowned establishment specializing in offering luxurious and innovative fruit-based experiences. Rooted in a rich history of fruit cultivation and appreciation, Takano has built a reputation for delivering the freshest, highest-quality fruits in the most creative and indulgent ways. At Takano Fruit Tiara, guests are treated to exquisite fruit-centered events and offerings, such as the Winter Strawberry Fantasy, where they can indulge in the finest seasonal produce.

Known for its meticulous attention to detail, Takano Fruit Tiara crafts an atmosphere that celebrates the vibrant flavors and natural beauty of fruits. With a focus on elegance and sophistication, their experiences blend traditional fruit appreciation with contemporary dining aesthetics, ensuring a memorable and delightful experience for every guest. Whether it’s through thoughtfully curated all-you-can-eat fruit events or elaborate afternoon tea sessions, Takano Fruit Tiara continues to set the standard for fruit-inspired luxury.

Experience the Magic of Harmony and Light this Winter in Ginza ✨

Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the enchanting glow of the Harmony and Light Winter Festa, held around Higashi-Ginza Station, including the iconic Kabukiza Theatre. From November 15th, 2024, to February 16th, 2025, experience a unique blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern artistry, illuminated nightly from 5 PM to 10 PM.

This year’s festival offers a fresh take on winter illuminations, drawing inspiration from the historical Tsukiji River lantern festivals and incorporating elements of Kabuki and Japanese culture, creating a truly unforgettable experience.

Discover the Highlights:

• Kabukiza Theatre Lantern Illuminations: Relive the elegance of bygone eras as delicate lanterns adorn the Kabukiza’s lush greenery, casting a warm and inviting glow. This captivating display pays homage to the historical lantern floating festivals once held on the Tsukiji River.

• Ginza Shochiku Square – A Symphony of Light:

  • Spherical Illuminations: Enter a tranquil oasis of circular motifs, symbolizing connection and harmony. These glowing orbs offer a moment of peace amidst the bustling city.
  • Japanese Umbrella Illuminations: Capture the perfect photo amidst the radiant beauty of traditional Japanese umbrellas, a key element in Kabuki performances, illuminating the entrance.
  • Yukitsuri Illuminations: Experience a touch of Japanese modernity with illuminated yukitsuri (rope structures used to protect tree branches from heavy snow). These unique light displays create a captivating atmosphere around the pine trees.

• Togeki Building Illuminations: Discover "Japanese" themed illuminations at the Togeki Building, standing on the historic site of the former Tokyo Theater, once a hub of theatrical and cinematic innovation.

Ankoman Night: A Fusion of Tradition and Beats (February 14th)

Don’t miss the exclusive one-night-only DJ event, "Ankoman Night," at Ginza Shochiku Square on February 14th, from 5 PM to 9 PM! Witness the exciting transformation of young proprietors from esteemed Japanese confectionery shops into "Ankoman" DJs, spinning electrifying tunes. Indulge in Ankoman’s special Japanese sweets while enjoying warm drinks and delicious food from the food trucks.

Plan Your Visit:

• Locations & Access: All venues are conveniently located near Higashi-Ginza Station:

  • Kabukiza Theatre
  • Togeki Building
  • Ginza Shochiku Square

• Event Period: November 15th, 2024 – February 16th, 2025

• Illumination Hours: 5 PM – 10 PM

• Official Website: https://x.gd/qRATP

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

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What is the Kabukiza Theatre?

The Kabukiza Theatre, located in the heart of Tokyo’s Ginza district, is the principal theater for the traditional Japanese performing art of Kabuki. Known for its distinctive architectural design that combines classical Japanese and modern styles, the theater offers an authentic cultural experience that captivates both locals and tourists alike. Kabuki, with its elaborate costumes, dynamic acting, and vivid storytelling, has been a crucial part of Japan’s cultural heritage for centuries, and the Kabukiza Theatre serves as its iconic stage.

The theater, originally opened in 1889, has undergone several restorations and modernizations, the most recent completed in 2013, ensuring that it continues to meet audiences’ expectations while preserving its historical charm. Inside, the theater is designed to enhance the acoustic and visual experience, allowing patrons to fully immerse themselves in the captivating performances that bring famous stories and historical tales to life. For those visiting during the Ginza Harmony and Light Winter Festa, the proximity to the Kabukiza Theatre offers a perfect opportunity to experience a unique art form steeped in tradition amidst the festive illuminations of the season.

Experience the Magic of the OMOHARA Christmas Illumination ✨

Imagine being enveloped by a cascade of shimmering lights, a "forest of falling stars" you can almost touch. This captivating scene awaits you at the OMOHARA Christmas Illumination, transforming the rooftop terrace "Omohara no Mori" at Tokyu Plaza Omotesando into a winter wonderland.

Unlike previous years, this year’s illumination expands beyond the central court, extending its radiant glow to the surrounding street trees, creating an immersive experience in the heart of Omotesando-Harajuku. This expanded display promises an even more breathtaking spectacle than ever before.

Picture yourself surrounded by twinkling lights, charming animal ornaments like polar bears and reindeer, and festive foliage. Escape the urban hustle and immerse yourself in this enchanting rooftop oasis.

Event Details:

• Venue: Tokyu Plaza Omotesando "Omocado" (Website)
• Nearest Station:
  • Meiji-jingumae ‘Harajuku’ Station (1-minute walk)
  • Harajuku Station (4-minute walk)
  • Omotesando Station (7-minute walk)
• Address: 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya-ku, Jingumae 4-30-3 (Map)
• Dates: November 10, 2024 – January 13, 2025
• Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM daily
• Cost: Free!
• Contact: 03-3497-0418
• Weather: The event will proceed regardless of weather conditions.

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

What is Omotesando?

Omotesando is a renowned tree-lined avenue in the heart of Tokyo, known for its sophisticated charm and vibrant atmosphere. Often referred to as Tokyo’s Champs-Élysées, it stretches from the bustling Harajuku area to the serene Nezu Museum. This iconic street is celebrated for its elegant blend of modern architecture, high-end fashion boutiques, trendy cafés, and lush Zelkova trees that provide a picturesque canopy throughout the year. Omotesando serves as a cultural and commercial hub, attracting both locals and tourists seeking a taste of Tokyo’s upscale shopping and dining scene. During the holiday season, its sparkling illuminations transform it into an enchanting winter wonderland, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the magic of Tokyo’s festive spirit.

Glide Under the Stars at Ginza’s Rooftop Ice Rink

Skate Among the Stars This Winter at GINZA SIX

Get ready to experience the magic of winter in Ginza! The unique rooftop ice skating rink atop GINZA SIX is back, bigger and better than ever, from November 16th, 2024 to January 26th, 2025. This isn’t just any ice rink – it’s the largest in Ginza, spanning an impressive 320㎡ across the "Water Basin Area" and "Lawn Area" of the 4,000㎡ GINZA SIX Garden.

This year, the rink features Kenji Yanobe’s latest masterpiece, "SHIP’S CAT (Ultra Muse / Red)," positioned at the center. Combined with celestial graphics by Keiji Ito, the rink becomes a truly otherworldly experience, inviting skaters to contemplate the wonders of the universe. And in December, the "HEAVENLY GIFT SHOP" opens its doors, offering exclusive merchandise designed by Keiji Ito and Kenji Yanobe – perfect for unique holiday gifts.

But that’s not all! This eco-friendly rink uses special resin, eliminating the need for electricity and ensuring your clothes stay dry even if you take a tumble. It’s the perfect place for kids to enjoy skating without worry, and special skating lessons for local elementary school students will also be held, adding to the community spirit.

Looking for something truly special this winter? Come experience the magic of skating under the stars at GINZA SIX.

Plan Your Visit

• Location: GINZA SIX Garden (Rooftop Garden)
  GINZA SIX
• Nearest Stations: Ginza, Hibiya, Yurakucho, Higashi-Ginza Stations
• Address: 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo-ku, Ginza 6-10-1
  MAP
• Dates: November 16th, 2024 – January 26th, 2025
• Hours:
  • Weekdays: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Last Entry 8:30 PM)
  • Weekends & Holidays: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Last Entry 8:30 PM)
  • Extended Holiday Hours (December 23rd – January 3rd): 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Last Entry 8:30 PM)
  • New Year’s Eve: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Last Entry 5:30 PM)
  • Closed on New Year’s Day
• Fees:
  • Adults (High School and above): ¥2,000
  • Children (Junior High and below): ¥1,500
  • Accompanying Fee: ¥300 (Preschoolers must be accompanied by a guardian)
  • Includes skate rental. Children under 3 are not permitted on the ice.
• More Information: GINZA SIX Garden

Please note that details are subject to change. Always check the official GINZA SIX website for the latest information.

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What is GINZA SIX?

GINZA SIX is a premier shopping and lifestyle complex located in the heart of Tokyo’s upscale Ginza district. Known for its luxurious architecture and an extensive selection of high-end retailers, GINZA SIX has become a landmark destination for both locals and tourists. The complex boasts over 240 shops, including international fashion brands, gourmet restaurants, and art installations, providing a diverse and immersive shopping experience.

Beyond retail, GINZA SIX also hosts a variety of cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year, reinforcing its role as a cultural hub. The building itself features a stunning rooftop garden, which offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with panoramic views of Tokyo’s skyline. Whether you’re seeking the latest in fashion, exquisite dining, or a quiet moment amidst nature, GINZA SIX embodies the epitome of luxury and innovation, making it a must-visit location during your time in Tokyo.

Focus on Technique: Uncover the Secrets of Hiroshige’s Exquisite Detail

Have you ever felt transported by a piece of art? A sense of nostalgia, a feeling of being there? That’s the magic of Hiroshige’s landscapes. From a gentle breeze to pouring rain, a blanket of snow to a vibrant blue sky, his work captures the essence of a moment. This exhibition delves into the techniques behind Hiroshige’s late masterpieces, the One Hundred Famous Views of Edo and the So-hitsu Gojusan-tsugi series, revealing the secrets that continue to captivate audiences.

This isn’t just another exhibition of pretty pictures. We’ll go beyond the surface beauty and explore the artistry behind the scenes. Discover how Hiroshige, working in perfect harmony with carvers and printers, skillfully manipulated innovative compositions and striking colors to create his painted world. We’ll focus on the technical aspects: the blurring, the shimmering, the unevenness, the rhythm, the subtle changes. See how these techniques, combined with Hiroshige’s meticulous attention to detail, transform everyday scenery into dramatic and unforgettable works of art. Experience the magic for yourself.

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Practical Information:

• Closed: National holidays (November 23rd, January 13th), New Year’s holidays (December 31st – January 3rd)
• Hours: 9:00 – 16:00 (Last entry at 15:30)
• Venue: MUFG Bank Currency Museum & Ukiyo-e Museum
• Fee: Free
• Contact: MUFG Bank Currency Museum & Ukiyo-e Museum (TEL: 052-300-8686 – English inquiries not accepted)
• Website: https://www.bk.mufg.jp/currency_museum/index.html
• Access: 5-minute walk from Exit 3 of Fushimi Subway Station, 5-minute walk from Exit 8 of Sakae Subway Station
• Important Notes:
  • No on-site parking. Please use public transportation.
  • The event may be cancelled, postponed, or changed.

What is the Gojusan-tsugi?

The Gojusan-tsugi, often referred to as the "Fifty-three Stations of the Tōkaidō," is a celebrated series of ukiyo-e woodblock prints by the renowned Japanese artist Utagawa Hiroshige. Created in the early 1830s, this series captures the scenic beauty and cultural vibrancy of the Tōkaidō road, the most important route connecting Edo (now Tokyo) to Kyoto during the Edo period. The series features 55 prints, including views of the starting point in Edo, the 53 post stations along the route, and the endpoint in Kyoto.

Hiroshige’s Gojusan-tsugi is acclaimed for its exquisite depictions of Japan’s diverse landscapes, including bustling market towns, serene countryside, and dramatic coastal views. Each station is vividly brought to life with Hiroshige’s masterful use of color, perspective, and atmospheric effects, reflecting both the daily life and the ephemeral beauty of the natural world. Beyond mere geographical representation, the series offers a glimpse into the lives and travels of the people of Edo-period Japan, encapsulating moments of leisure, labor, and cultural rituals.

This artistic endeavor not only solidified Hiroshige’s reputation as a master of landscape prints but also contributed profoundly to the European art movement of Japonism in the 19th century. Today, the Gojusan-tsugi continues to be celebrated for its artistic innovation and its evocative portrayal of a journey through time and space.

✨ Tokyo Skytree Town® Christmas Market® 2024: A Winter Wonderland of Lights and Snow ❄️

Get ready to be enchanted! This year’s Tokyo Skytree Town Christmas Market, themed "Christmas of Light and Snow," promises a dazzling spectacle from November 7th to December 25th, 2024. Prepare to be immersed in a festive atmosphere unlike any before, with sparkling illuminations and enchanting snow decorations transforming the entire venue into a winter wonderland.

What awaits you? Picture this: authentic German Santa Claus and reindeer monuments, a magnificent 3-meter Erzgebirge figurine, and charming European-style "Hütte" (huts) lining the Sky Arena – more than ever before! Imported German star lights will cast a warm, inviting glow, complementing the already breathtaking illuminations. And for the first time ever, a giant, fairytale-like candy house will make its debut, adding a touch of whimsy to the magical scene.

But the magic doesn’t stop there! Indulge in delicious food, savor warming hot wine and beer, and treat yourself to sweet delights amidst the twinkling lights. Experience the unique joy of Tokyo Solamachi completely transformed for the Christmas season.

This year’s market boasts an even more impressive "giant Stollen" than last year’s 2-meter version – one of the largest in Japan! Witness the grand unveiling and cutting ceremony with a giant knife after the illumination lighting ceremony on opening day. It’s a spectacle you won’t want to miss!

Event Details:

• Location/Nearest Station: Tokyo Solamachi® (Tokyo Skytree Station/Oshiage ‘Skytree-mae’ Station)
• Address: 〒131-0045 Tokyo, Sumida-ku, Oshiage 1-1-2 MAP
• Venue: Tokyo Skytree Town 4th Floor Sky Arena
• Dates: November 7th (Thu) – December 25th (Wed), 2024
• Time: 11:00 – 22:00
• Entry Fee: Free
• Inquiries: 03-6451-1628
• Official Website: https://www.tokyo-solamachi.jp/
• Rain or Shine: Event will proceed as scheduled.

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

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What is Tokyo Skytree?

Tokyo Skytree is an iconic broadcasting and observation tower located in the Sumida district of Tokyo, Japan. Standing at a remarkable height of 634 meters (2,080 feet), it holds the title of the tallest structure in Japan and was the tallest in the world at the time of its completion in 2012. Designed with a futuristic aesthetic that seamlessly blends traditional Japanese architectural elements, the tower serves as a significant landmark on the Tokyo skyline.

Primarily functioning as a television and radio broadcasting tower, Tokyo Skytree also features two observation decks that offer panoramic views of the Tokyo metropolitan area, attracting millions of tourists from around the globe each year. The higher of the two decks, known as the Tembo Galleria, is located at 450 meters, providing visitors with breathtaking vistas and an unforgettable experience.

In addition to the observation areas, Tokyo Skytree is home to a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, including the Solamachi shopping complex. This vibrant commercial space offers a wide range of retail stores, restaurants, and an aquarium, ensuring that visitors have plenty to see and do beyond the awe-inspiring views.

Tokyo Skytree is a symbol of innovation and a hub for cultural and leisure activities, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Tokyo. During the Christmas season, the tower and its surroundings transform into a winter wonderland, providing a magical backdrop for events like the Tokyo Skytree Town Christmas Market.

Koenji Festival 2024: A Weekend of Fun, Food, and Festivities!

Get ready for a whirlwind of excitement at the Koenji Festival 2024, taking place across Koenji, Tokyo, on October 26th and 27th! This isn’t just another festival – it’s a vibrant celebration of Koenji’s unique spirit, with a jam-packed schedule of events for everyone.

From pro-wrestling showdowns and electrifying live music at Koenji Station’s North Exit Plaza to the rhythmic pulse of Koenji’s famed Awa Odori dance, there’s a spectacle for every taste. Dive into the "Curry-nal Battle in Suginami" and savor four distinct curries from the area’s top restaurants. Feeling musical? Check out "#GURU Music," showcasing emerging artists in Koenji’s lively bars and clubs.

Beyond the Main Stage:

Explore the heart of Koenji with the festival’s unique stamp rally. Collect stamps from participating shops listed on the "Koenji Department Store" portal (over 300 stores!) and enter a raffle for exciting prizes. Discover handmade treasures at the market, unleash your creativity at workshops, and enjoy family-friendly activities at the parent-child workshop festival. Don’t forget the "GURU Cup," offering discounts on food and drinks with a reusable cup!

Special Events:

• Saturday, October 26th: Catch the "Junjun Miura & Shinji Higuchi Talk Event" at Za-Koenji 2.
• Sunday, October 27th: Join the fun at "Ouken’s Hohon School Koenji Edition!" with Kenzi Ootsuki and guests, also at Za-Koenji 2.

Essential Information:

• Dates: October 26th (Saturday) – October 27th (Sunday), 2024
• Locations:
  • Koenji North Exit Plaza: Koenji Station
  • Za-Koenji (Suginami Public Hall for Arts and Culture): Koenji Station
• Times: Vary by event; check the official website. Participating shop events follow individual store hours.
• Admission: Free (some events may be ticketed)
• Rain Information: Events may be canceled in severe weather; check the official website and venue information for updates.

Find out more:

• Official Website: Koenji Festival Official Website
• Contact: Inquiries

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Please note: Event details are subject to change. Always refer to the official website for the latest information.