Curry Dojo Heats Up KLASI COLLEGE on July 21st!

Calling all curry lovers! Get ready for a flavor explosion at KLASI COLLEGE’s Curry Dojo event on Sunday, July 21st, 2024. Prepare your taste buds for a journey through the diverse and delicious world of curry, from fiery Osaka spice blends to comforting European-inspired creations.

A Curry Lover’s Paradise Awaits

Here’s what you can expect at this sizzling event:

• Curry Tasting Adventure: Purchase a curry tasting ticket and embark on a culinary adventure, sampling a tantalizing variety of curries from our curated selection of vendors.
• Spice Bazaar: Explore a vibrant marketplace featuring vendors offering aromatic spices, soothing chai, and other curry-related treasures.
• The Curry Call: Join fellow curry enthusiasts for a shared love of this globally-celebrated dish. "Osu!!"

Featured Curry Masters

Prepare to be wowed by these talented curry artisans:

• Spice Curry:
  • Spice Tapiko
  • Spice Curry Mokkouyoku
  • COFFEE & BAR LUPIN
• Indian Curry:
  • spice café Delacine
• European-style Curry:
  • Go Go Diner (Beef Curry)
  • Bohemian Curry
• Other Asian Curries:
  • Curry-ya Kusun (Kyoto Venison Spice Curry)
  • Maruta Shokudo (Asian Spice Curry)

Market Delights

Complement your curry experience with these market vendors:

• Spices & Teas:
  • Shutcho Chai-ya ChaiTona (Spices/Herb Chai)
  • SLOKA SPICE WORKS. (Curry Spice Kits)
• Other Treats:
  • Yojo laboratory KIJIBATO (Chinese Herbal Tea, Takeaway Drinks)
  • Goto Market (Sweet Potato Shaved Ice & Other Flavors)

Event Details

• Date: Sunday, July 21st, 2024
• Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Location: KLASI COLLEGE
  • Address: 2-1-27 Chikko, Minato-ku, Osaka-shi
  • Access: 2-minute walk from "Osakako" Station on the Osaka Metro Chuo Line
• Price:
  • Curry Tasting Ticket: 1,200 yen (includes three 80g servings of curry)
    • Curry tickets are required to purchase curry and are available online and at the venue.
    • Mix and match any three curries from our vendors.
    • Additional servings can be purchased for ¥400 each after using the 3-curry ticket.
    • Tickets cannot be shared. High school students and older must purchase individual tickets.
    • Purchase your [Curry Tasting Tickets online now!](link to online tickets)

Connect with KLASI COLLEGE

• Contact: Contact KLASI COLLEGE
• Website: Learn more about the event

Dance the Night Away at the Umeda Yukata Festival 2024

(Osaka, Japan) Get ready for a vibrant celebration of Japanese summer traditions as the Umeda Yukata Festival returns to Osaka! From July 20th to 21st, immerse yourself in a weekend of music, dance, and festive cheer.

Experience the Magic of "Yukata de Bon Odori"

The heart of the festival lies in the "Yukata de Bon Odori," a traditional Japanese dance event held at the spacious Umekita Hiroba, right in front of JR Osaka Station. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a first-timer, everyone is welcome to join the lively circles and move to the rhythm. Choose from three unique sessions:

• 18:00 – 18:45: Let the little ones loose for a special session featuring kid-friendly songs and dances.
• 18:45 – 19:30: Embrace tradition with a selection of classic Bon Odori dances, passed down through generations.
• 19:30 – 20:00: Turn up the energy with modern hits and original Umeda Yukata Festival choreography, adding a contemporary twist to the festivities.

Discover the "Umeda Iro Ennichi"

Beyond the mesmerizing Bon Odori, the festival extends its vibrant spirit across five locations in the Umeda area with the "Umeda Iro Ennichi." Each district offers a unique flavor of Japanese summer fun:

• Hankyu Chayamachi: Enjoy special programs from MBS’s popular "Are Mita?" show and be entertained by lively performances from local students.
• Grand Front Osaka: Indulge in the electrifying atmosphere with live music, captivating performances, and a tempting array of food stalls.
• Osaka Station City: Step into a world of wonder with interactive stage events and engaging games for the whole family.
• Diamond District: Venture below ground to discover a curated market showcasing unique crafts and goods. Participate in traditional Japanese cultural workshops and experience a modern take on the classic Ennichi festival.
• ONthe UMEDA: Relive the nostalgia of childhood with classic festival games and activities, sure to bring back fond memories.

More Than Just Dancing

Don’t miss the "Umeda Uchimizu Daisakusen" (Umeda Water Splashing Event) on July 20th. This refreshing tradition helps combat the summer heat and adds a splash of fun to the festivities.

Join the Celebration

Mark your calendars for the Umeda Yukata Festival 2024:

• Dates: July 20th (Saturday) & 21st (Sunday), 2024
• Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (both days)
• Location: Umekita Hiroba (Grand Front Osaka, 4-1 Ofukacho, Kita Ward, Osaka), in front of JR Osaka Station North Exit
• Admission: Free
• Website: https://umeda-connect.jp/yukata/matsuri2024/

Embrace the spirit of summer in Japan! Don your favorite yukata and join the vibrant celebration at the Umeda Yukata Festival 2024.

Groove Your Way to Family Fun at Abeno Q’s Mall!

Get ready to boogie! Abeno Q’s Mall in Osaka is throwing a Family Disco extravaganza to celebrate the grand opening of its vibrant new community space, "Q-shiba."

Save the Dates:

• Friday, July 19th: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Saturday, July 20th: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Prepare for an electrifying evening filled with music, dancing, and family-friendly fun! A live DJ will spin the hottest tracks, while professional dancers set the stage ablaze with their moves. It’s the perfect atmosphere to let loose and create unforgettable memories.

Beyond the Beat:

Q-shiba will be buzzing with exciting activities to keep the whole family entertained:

• Tantalize Your Taste Buds: Indulge in a variety of culinary delights from local favorites. Grab a refreshing drink at the British-style pub HUB Abeno Q’s Mall, savor exquisite shaved ice creations from Korenka, or enjoy tasty takeout options from the lively Bar de Espana risa risa.
• Smile Brighter at the Hami-gaki BAR: Experience the unique "Hami-gaki BAR" (Toothbrushing Bar) and receive free dental consultations and toothpaste samples.

Admission is free! Gather your loved ones and head down to Abeno Q’s Mall for a night of pure family fun.

Event Details:

• Dates: July 19th (Fri) and 20th (Sat), 2024 (subject to change)
• Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Location: Abeno Q’s Mall, 4th Floor "Q-shiba" (1-6-1 Abenosuji, Abeno-ku, Osaka)
• Admission: Free
• Contact: 06-6556-7000 (Abeno Q’s Mall)
• Website: Abeno Q’s Mall

Rain Check: In the event of rain, the event may be postponed to the following weekend (July 26th and 27th).

Ikukunitama Shrine Festival: A Vibrant Celebration of Summer in Osaka

Experience the electrifying energy of the Ikukunitama Summer Festival, fondly known as "Ikutama-san," a cherished Osaka tradition that welcomes the arrival of summer.

July 11th (Thursday): The Eve of the Festival

As dusk descends, the festival bursts into life. Prepare to be captivated by the powerful drumming of the "Makura Daiko," performed by the "Ganji," whose rhythmic beats reverberate through the air. Witness the dazzling procession of the "Gold and Silver Mikoshi" (portable shrines) as they weave their way through the streets. Be enchanted by the adorable "Shishimai" lion dances, performed by local children, adding a touch of whimsy to the festivities. These vibrant processions traverse the expansive parish area, encompassing 100 neighborhood associations.

July 12th (Friday): The Main Festival Day

At 10:00 am, the grand "Owatarigyoretsu" procession commences its solemn journey towards Osaka Castle. Over 500 participants accompany the "Gohouren" (sacred palanquin) in this awe-inspiring spectacle. As evening falls, the shrine grounds come alive once again at 7:00 pm with a captivating display of "Oneri" (street performances). Lion dances, portable shrines, and the thunderous "Makura Daiko" are all dedicated in a vibrant celebration of tradition. The Ikukunitama Festival paints an unforgettable picture of summer in Osaka.

Event Details:

• Dates: July 11th (Thursday) and 12th (Friday), 2024
• Times:
  • July 11th:
    • Makura Daiko: Departs Shrine at 10:00 am, Returns at 6:30 pm
    • Gold & Silver Mikoshi: Departs Shrine at 1:00 pm, Returns at 6:00 pm
    • Other events throughout the day
  • July 12th:
    • Owatarigyoretsu Procession: Departs at 10:00 am, Arrives at Temporary Shrine (Osaka Castle) at 12:30 pm
    • Other events throughout the day
• Location: Ikukunitama Shrine (13-9 Ikutamacho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka) and surrounding areas
• Inquiries: +81-6-6771-0002 (9:00 am to 5:00 pm)
• Website: Ikukunitama Shrine on Instagram

Indulge in a Magical Sunset Dinner at Osaka Port This Summer

Saturday, July 13th, 2024

©Osaka Port Sunset Restaurant

Prepare yourself for an enchanting evening reminiscent of France’s famed "Dîner en Blanc" at Osaka’s breathtaking Diamond Point. This exclusive, picnic-style white party offers a magical sunset experience that’s sure to sell out quickly.

Here’s what awaits you:

• Dress to Impress: Embrace the elegance of this unforgettable event by donning your finest white attire.
• Curate Your Culinary Delights: Pack a delectable dinner to savor as the sun dips below the horizon. Please note that no food or beverages will be available for purchase at the venue.
• Punctuality is Key: The magic begins at sunset, so ensure you arrive on time to fully immerse yourself in the experience.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, July 13th, 2024 (Reservations are required. In the event of rain, the event will be canceled, and participants will be notified by 10:00 AM on the day of the event).
• Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM (Doors open at 6:00 PM)
• Location: Diamond Point, Osaka Port Central Breakwater (1-5 Kaigandori, Minato-ku, Osaka City, Central Breakwater Waterfront Park)
• Ticket Options:
  • A Seats (Shared Table): 1,000 yen/person – Enjoy shared seating at a table for six (seat selection is not available).
  • A Table (Private): 6,000 yen/table – Secure a private table for your group of one to six people.
  • S Seats (Front Row): 300 yen/person – Bring your own camping table and chairs to relish the sunset from the coveted front row area (a white tablecloth is required, with rentals available).

Important Note: Children who do not require a chair and babies in strollers may attend free of charge (lap seating).

Contact: [email protected]

Website: https://sunset-restaurant.tempozan.info/

Relive Osaka’s Golden Age on the Sunflower Summer Beer Cruise

Experience the timeless elegance of a summer evening in Osaka, just like in days gone by, aboard the Sunflower Summer Beer Cruise. This special evening cruise, available Thursdays to Saturdays from July 12th to September 14th, offers a unique glimpse into the city’s enchanting past.

Osaka, a city interwoven with waterways, boasts a rich history of leisurely boat rides. Throughout the year, locals and visitors alike would embark on these aquatic excursions, celebrating each season’s unique beauty – from spring blossom viewing to winter snow viewing. Among these, the summer evening cruises held a special allure, offering adults a stylish and refreshing respite from the day’s heat.

The Sunflower Summer Beer Cruise revives this cherished tradition aboard the "Himawari," one of Osaka’s most graceful cruise ships. As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant hues, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the city’s glittering skyline.

Indulge your senses with a specially prepared summer evening petit four set and unlimited drinks, including refreshing draft beer, classic highballs, and six other tempting options.

Here’s everything you need to know:

• Dates: Thursdays to Saturdays, July 12th to September 14th, 2024 (Closed: July 18th, 25th, 26th, 27th, August 3rd, and 29th)
• Time: Departs 6:30 PM, Arrives 7:50 PM
• Location: Departs from Hachikenyahama Pier (1-1 Tenmabashikyomachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka)
• Price: 8,000 yen per adult (includes cruise fare, food, and all-you-can-drink)
• Contact: 06-6942-6699
• Website: Learn More and Book Your Cruise

Don’t miss this opportunity to step back in time and experience the magic of a summer evening in Osaka, as enchanting today as it was in the city’s golden age.

All Aboard! Indulge Your Senses on the Awa Tokushima Sake Train

Embark on a unique cultural and culinary journey without leaving Osaka! The Osaka Monorail’s special "Awa Tokushima" Sake Train invites you to experience the exquisite flavors and vibrant traditions of Tokushima Prefecture.

Date: Saturday, July 13th, 2024

A Symphony of Flavors and Culture Awaits

Here’s what’s in store for you on this unforgettable journey:

• Sake Tasting Extravaganza: Delight your palate with a tasting of six exquisite local sakes from Tokushima, each carefully selected to complement a delectable Awa beef roast beef rice bowl.
• Immersive Cultural Experience: Upon arrival at Expo Park Station, be captivated by a vibrant Awa Odori dance performance and explore a special exhibition showcasing the wonders of Tokushima tourism and local products.
• Your Personal Touch: Enhance your journey by bringing your favorite snacks and drinks to enjoy onboard.

A Toast to Tokushima: The Sake Lineup

Prepare your senses for an exquisite sake tasting experience (approximately 3 "go" per person):

• Naruto Tai LED (Junmai Ginjo)
• Godenzakura (Junmai Daiginjo)
• Kami katsu (Junmai Ginjo Genshu)
• Housui (Daiginjo)
• Bizan (Junmai Ginjo)
• Chikukuni Tsunomine (Junmai Ginjo)

A Culinary Delight: Your Meal

• Savor the rich flavors of a specially prepared Awa Beef Roast Beef Rice Bowl, featuring premium Tokushima brand beef.

Your Journey’s Itinerary

• Limited Availability: 130 people (minimum 80 people) – first come, first served
• Two Departure Times: Choose the schedule that best suits your preferences:
  • First Train:
    • Check-in: 11:30 AM – 12:00 PM (strictly enforced)
    • Departure: 12:40 PM from Expo Park Station
    • Arrival: 2:25 PM at Expo Park Station
  • Second Train:
    • Check-in: 4:00 PM – 4:30 PM (strictly enforced)
    • Departure: 5:15 PM from Expo Park Station
    • Arrival: 7:00 PM at Expo Park Station

Location and Route

• Departure and Arrival: Expo Park Station on the Osaka Monorail, conveniently located within the Expo ’70 Commemorative Park in Suita City, Osaka.
• Scenic Route: Expo Park Station → Kadoma-shi Station (10-minute restroom break) → Osaka Airport Station (20-minute restroom break) → Expo Park Station

Reservation Details

• Price: 6,000 yen per person
• Important Note: Participation is not permitted for minors.

Secure Your Spot

Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and flavors of Tokushima!

• Phone: 06-6319-9785
• Website: Osaka Monorail Event Details

Savor the Flavors of Ise at the Akahuku Ice and Delectable Treats Fair

Calling all food lovers! Prepare your taste buds for a culinary journey to Ise, a region renowned for its exquisite flavors and culinary traditions. From July 17th to 22nd, the Hanshin Umeda Main Store will host the "Akahuku Ice and Delectable Treats Fair," a celebration of Mie Prefecture’s finest offerings.

Indulge in Akafuku Shaved Ice and Regional Specialties

Headlining the event is Akafuku, the esteemed confectionery shop from Ise Jingu Shrine, bringing their iconic summer treat – Akafuku Shaved Ice. This refreshing delight is a must-try for anyone seeking respite from the summer heat.

But the delights don’t stop there! The fair will also feature a tantalizing array of specialties from Mie Prefecture and the Ise region, including:

• Ise Udon: Experience the pleasure of thick, soft udon noodles bathed in a savory-sweet sauce, a true testament to Ise’s culinary heritage.
• Unagi Okowa: Indulge in the delicate flavors of pressed sushi-style rice topped with grilled eel, a dish that embodies Japanese culinary artistry.
• Matsuzaka Beef Croquettes and Minced Cutlets: Savory and satisfying, these treats showcase the renowned Matsuzaka beef, prized for its rich flavor and tenderness.
• Grilled Meat Bento Boxes: For a hearty and flavorful meal, explore the selection of grilled meat bento boxes, offering a delightful combination of tastes and textures.

Event Details and Access

Date: July 17th (Wednesday) – 22nd (Monday), 2024
Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location: Food Festival Terrace, 1st Floor, Hanshin Umeda Main Store (1-13-13 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka)
Admission: Free

Akafuku Shaved Ice Entry: To ensure a pleasant experience, please join the queue at the East Entrance on the 1st floor (Entrance No. 14). You will be guided to the booth. Please be aware that entry may be temporarily restricted during peak hours.

For more information, visit the official event website: Hanshin Umeda Main Store Event Page

Don’t miss this opportunity to embark on a culinary adventure through the flavors of Ise!

Beat the Summer Heat at the 8th Annual Osaka Sake Festival

Calling all sake lovers! Prepare your palates for the 8th Annual Osaka Sake Festival, taking place at the iconic Osaka Bay Tower on July 13th and 14th, 2024. This festival is a vibrant celebration of Japanese sake culture, showcasing the finest seasonal brews alongside delicious food and captivating performances.

This year’s theme, "Beat the Summer Heat! Discover Refreshing Sake!", invites you to explore a world of invigorating summer brews, sparkling sakes, and premium selections.

Discover a World of Sake

Prepare to be captivated by:

• Over 100 varieties of sake from 28 breweries across Japan, including craft beers and more, offering a diverse range of flavors to tantalize your taste buds.
• Award-winning sake from renowned breweries such as Rokkasen, Satonohomare, Kashoku, Itteki-senzan, Shikai-oh, Shiki, Mienokoume, Nihondamashii, Kuruma-zaka, Gohashi, Hanayuki, and Taito, alongside many other esteemed names.
• First-time appearances from exciting breweries like Fukukomachi, Sasanokawa, Gokeiji, Iwanonoi, Shichiemi, Kisosansen, and Takatori, as well as the highly anticipated Osaka debuts of Teimatsu and Oumon.

Delight in Culinary Delights and Cultural Experiences

Enhance your sake journey with:

• Delicious food stalls offering a delectable array of seasonal dishes, regional specialties, popular restaurant fare, and perfect pairings to complement your sake selections.
• Live traditional Japanese music performances on stage, creating an immersive atmosphere that transports you to the heart of Japanese culture.

Cast Your Vote for the "Sake Festival Grand Prize"

Participate in the excitement by casting your vote for the coveted "Sake Festival Grand Prize." Categories include Summer Sake, Sparkling Sake, Special Designation Sake, Liqueur, and Warm Sake, allowing you to champion your favorites.

Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in the best of Japanese sake culture!

Event Details:

• Dates: Saturday, July 13th & Sunday, July 14th, 2024
• Time:
  • Session 1: 12:00 PM – 2:10 PM
  • Session 2: 3:00 PM – 5:10 PM
  • Separate entry for each session
• Location: Osaka Bay Tower, 2nd Floor Atrium (1-2-4 Benten, Minato-ku, Osaka)
• Admission:
  • Advance Tickets: 3,000 yen (excluding tax, food, and merchandise)
  • Same-day Tickets: 3,500 yen (excluding tax, limited availability)
• Contact: +81-3-6225-2977 / [email protected]
• Website: https://sakefes.com/osaka08/

Escape the City Heat at Suzume’s Café: A Summer Oasis in the Heart of Tokyo

This summer, trade the sweltering city streets for the tranquil ambiance of Suzume’s Café, a limited-time pop-up experience at The Prince Park Tower Tokyo. From July 27th to September 1st, 2024 (closed on August 17th), immerse yourself in the serene sounds of bell crickets while enjoying traditional Japanese refreshments.

An Evening of Sensory Delights

Step into a serene oasis inspired by the gentle beauty of a Japanese summer evening. Suzume’s Café offers a unique opportunity to:

• Relax to the soothing sounds of bell crickets, creating a peaceful and enchanting atmosphere.
• Indulge in a selection of refreshing drinks and Japanese delicacies, specially curated to complement the summer ambiance.
• Enhance your experience by renting a traditional yukata (light cotton kimono), available on-site for a truly immersive cultural experience.

Conveniently Located in the Heart of Tokyo

Suzume’s Café is conveniently located at The Prince Park Tower Tokyo, a short walk from both Shiba Park Station and Hamamatsucho Station. Escape the city’s hustle and bustle and treat yourself to an unforgettable summer evening.