Ring in 2025 at Tokyo Prince Hotel’s 60th New Year’s Celebration! 🎉

Looking for a unique way to welcome 2025? Join the Tokyo Prince Hotel for their 60th New Year’s celebration – a multi-generational extravaganza featuring a dazzling countdown, traditional Japanese performances, and fun for the whole family! This year’s celebration stands out with its unique blend of modern and traditional entertainment, including a spectacular outdoor pool countdown show (a first for the hotel!), and a focus on nostalgic Japanese games and activities.

Countdown to 2025 with a Bang!

Get ready for a dazzling countdown event featuring the powerful drumming of 鼓和-CORE- (CORE), electrifying LED lighting, and a celebratory balloon release!

• Date: December 31, 2024 (Tuesday)
• Location: Tokyo Prince Hotel Garden Pool (Banquet hall in case of rain)

New Year’s Day Delights: Traditional Japanese Performances

Kick off the New Year with the vibrant sounds of traditional Japanese music.

• 斬月-Zangetsu- Japanese Drum Stage Show: Experience the deep, resonating bass of Zangetsu, a Japanese musical instrument unit blending traditional and modern sounds.

  • Date: January 1, 2025 (New Year’s Day)
  • Location: Phoenix (2F)

• Tsugaru Shamisen Duet Stage: Enjoy the captivating performance of Rei Fujii and Masato Nakahara, a Tsugaru shamisen duet known for their powerful yet delicate sound.

  • Date: January 2, 2025 (Thursday)
  • Location: Phoenix (2F)

Family Fun and Entertainment

From nostalgic games to traditional activities, there’s something for everyone!

• Retro Stage Show: Be amazed by kendama and paper-cutting performances, and enjoy traditional kamishibai (paper theatre) storytelling in the historic hotel lobby.

  • Date: January 1 & 2, 2025
  • Location: Lobby (1F)

• New Year’s Hatsuyume Gacha (First Dream Lottery): Test your luck with a giant gacha (capsule toy vending machine)! Exclusive to guests booking consecutive nights for the New Year’s plan.

  • Date: January 1, 2025
  • Location: In front of Providence Hall (2F)

• Tokyo Retro Town: Step back in time and enjoy nostalgic Japanese games like kendama, karuta (card game), target practice, and tabletop arcade games.

  • Date: January 1 & 2, 2025
  • Location: Providence Hall (2F)

• Kakizome (First Calligraphy of the Year): Set your intentions for the New Year by participating in kakizome, a traditional Japanese calligraphy practice.

  • Date: January 1 & 2, 2025
  • Location: Providence Hall (2F)

• First Kodan (Storytelling): Be captivated by the rhythmic storytelling of Kodan performer Iori Kanda.

  • Date: January 1, 2025
  • Location: Sunflower Hall (2F)

Delicious Dining

Indulge in specially prepared New Year’s meals crafted by Tokyo Prince Hotel’s talented chefs.

Event Details:

• Venue: Tokyo Prince Hotel
• Nearest Stations: Onarimon Station (1-minute walk), Daimon Station (7-minute walk), Akabanebashi Station (7-minute walk), Kamiyacho Station (10-minute walk), Hamamatsucho Station (10-minute walk)
• Address: 〒105-8560 Tokyo, Minato-ku, Shibakoen 3-3-1 MAP
• Event Period: December 31, 2024 – January 3, 2025
• Inquiries: Tokyo Prince Hotel New Year’s Plan Reservation Desk 03-3435-8686
• Website: Tokyo Prince Hotel

Book your stay and celebrate the New Year in style! 🛏️ See hotels near Tokyo

Please note that the content listed is subject to change. Check the official website for the latest information.

Indulge in a Luxurious Strawberry Afternoon Tea at Shangri-La Hotel, Tokyo

Escape the winter blues and welcome the promise of spring with a decadent Strawberry Afternoon Tea at the Shangri-La Hotel, Tokyo. Available from December 26, 2024, to January 31, 2025, this limited-time experience promises a delightful journey for your taste buds.

A Symphony of Strawberry Delights

Prepare to be mesmerized by a vibrant array of red and pink treats. The star of the show? The glistening "Strawberry Mille-feuille." Layers of flaky puff pastry, rich custard, almond cream, and a hint of pistachio are topped with a generous layer of strawberry jelly, showcasing thick slices of juicy strawberries.

Chocolate lovers will adore the playful "Strawberry Chocolate," featuring a bitter gateau chocolate base, smooth strawberry ganache, and a hidden surprise of praline feuilletine. For a tangy twist, the "Raspberry Rhubarb Cheesecake" offers a baked cheesecake enveloped in raspberry and rhubarb jam and coated in rich raspberry chocolate. Lighter options include the elegant "Strawberry and Rose Cream Hibiscus Jelly," with its delicate floral notes, and the refreshing "Yuzu Matcha Tart," a harmonious blend of citrus and matcha flavors.

Savory Sensations with a Strawberry Twist

The savory selection is equally innovative, featuring unexpected strawberry pairings. The "Champagne Mousse and Scallops with Strawberry Consommé Jelly" is a delightful culinary paradox – a dessert-like appearance with the savory aroma of consommé. The "Prosciutto and Mozzarella with Strawberry Salsa Sauce and Cheese Tuile" reimagines the classic Italian combination with a vibrant strawberry salsa and crispy parmesan tuile.

For a lighter bite, the "Smoked Salmon and Tofu Fresh Spring Rolls" offer a delicate balance of rich smoked salmon and mild tofu, with the vibrant red of the strawberries peeking through the rice paper. At the heart of the savory selection lies the "Japanese Beef Tartare and Red Wine Bun," a unique pink burger featuring flavorful Japanese beef tartare seasoned with mustard and capers, nestled between red wine-infused buns.

Scones and Beverages

Complete your afternoon tea experience with a selection of classic, lemon basil, and a unique strawberry raspberry swirl scone, served with clotted cream, strawberry jam, and condensed milk. A curated selection of beverages complements the sweet and savory offerings.

What Sets This Afternoon Tea Apart?

Unlike previous afternoon tea offerings at the Shangri-La Hotel, Tokyo, this experience focuses entirely on the queen of berries – the strawberry. From classic pastries to innovative savory dishes, each item showcases the versatility and deliciousness of this beloved fruit. The vibrant presentation and unique flavor combinations make this a truly unforgettable experience.

Practical Information

• Location: Shangri-La Hotel, Tokyo, 28th floor Lounge & Bar "The Lobby Lounge" (Link to Hotel)
• Nearest Stations: Tokyo Station, Nihonbashi Station, Otemachi Station
• Address: Marunouchi Trust Tower Main Building, 1-8-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 〒100-8283 (Google Maps Link)
• Event Period: December 26, 2024 – January 31, 2025
• Time: Weekdays: 12:00-17:30, Weekends & Holidays: 13:00-17:30
• Price:
  • December 26, 2024 – January 5, 2025: ¥8,580 per person (tax included, 15% service charge separate)
  • January 6, 2025 – January 31, 2025: ¥7,480 per person (tax included, 15% service charge separate)
• Contact: 03-6739-7877 | [email protected]
• Hotel Website: Shangri-La Tokyo

Please note that menu contents and prices are subject to change. Images are for illustrative purposes only. For the latest information, please check the official website.

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Blue Cave SHIBUYA: Immerse Yourself in a Winter Wonderland of Light

Experience the Magic of "Blue Grotto – THE SNOW DOME -" at Japan’s Largest Illumination Event

Get ready to be mesmerized by the dazzling display of "Blue Grotto SHIBUYA," Japan’s largest illumination event, returning for its 10th anniversary with a spectacular new centerpiece: the "Blue Grotto – THE SNOW DOME -." This massive, luminous spherical balloon will captivate visitors with its breathtaking scale and enchanting projected imagery, creating a truly unforgettable winter experience.

This year’s event promises to be even more magical than ever before, building on the legacy of "Nakameguro Blue Grotto" and its cumulative 15 million visitors. The "Blue Grotto – THE SNOW DOME -" located on Yoyogi Park’s Zelkova Tree-lined Avenue, adds a unique twist to the already stunning display. The snow globe-themed projections dancing across the dome’s surface will evoke the wonder and beauty of Christmas, offering captivating visuals both before and after the main illumination begins.

As dusk descends, prepare to be transported to a fantastical realm bathed in the soft glow of blue light. "Blue Grotto SHIBUYA" has become a cherished winter tradition, transforming the city into a breathtaking spectacle. This year, the shimmering blue expanse promises to create another season of unforgettable memories. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic and create a special moment that will stay with you long after the lights fade.

Event Details:

• Location & Access:

  • Shibuya Koen-dori: Shibuya Station
  • Yoyogi Park: Meiji-jingumae ‘Harajuku’ Station / Harajuku Station / Yoyogi-Koen Station / Yoyogi-Hachiman Station

• Venue: Shibuya Koen-dori to Yoyogi Park Zelkova Tree-lined Avenue (approximately 900m)

• Dates: December 6th (Fri), 2024 – December 25th (Wed), 2024

• Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

• Official Website: https://shibuya-aonodokutsu.jp/

• Weather Notice: Opening hours and event details are subject to change due to rain or unforeseen circumstances. Please check the official website for the latest information.

• Accommodation: Find hotels near Tokyo 🛏️

Meguro River Everyone’s Illumination 2024: Witness the Winter Sakura Bloom

See the Meguro River transformed into a magical Winter Sakura wonderland, all thanks to the power of recycled cooking oil! From November 15, 2024, to January 13, 2025, experience the "Meguro River Everyone’s Illumination," a unique display powered entirely by biodiesel fuel created from locally collected used cooking oil.

This inspiring project, launched in 2010, illuminates the riverbanks with the beautiful "Winter SakuraⓇ" display while championing sustainable energy and a local circular economy. Born from a desire to lift spirits and conserve energy after the Great East Japan Earthquake, the illumination demonstrates the power of community collaboration. Local residents, businesses, and the municipality join forces to showcase the importance of this initiative, particularly relevant in today’s world of potential power shortages.

Join the festivities on opening day! Bring your used cooking oil to designated collection points and learn about sustainable development goals through interactive games like giant Jenga.

Event Details

• Venue: Shinagawa City Gotanda Fureai Riverside Plaza (Link to Venue Info)
• Nearest Stations: Gotanda Station, Osaki Station
• Address: 〒141-0022 Tokyo, Shinagawa Ward, Higashi-Gotanda 2-9 (Google Maps Link)
• Dates: November 15, 2024 – January 13, 2025
• Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM daily
• Cost: Free
• Contact: Meguro River Everyone’s Illumination Executive Committee (03-5330-7675)
• Website: http://www.minna-no-illumi.com/
• Weather: The event will proceed regardless of weather conditions.

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

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ASUNAL KANAYAMA "Winter Illumination 2024" 🎆

Get ready to light up your winter at Asunal Kanayama! This year’s "Winter Illumination" event promises to be a dazzling display, featuring the beloved characters from Barbapapa in all their colorful charm. Imagine walking through magical transformations of character snow domes and snapping photos at whimsical spots tailored to delight both young and old. The playful illuminations do more than just shine – they invite you to explore and engage with the Barbapapa family adventures throughout the venue!

What Makes This Illumination Unique?

Why is this year’s event special? It’s not just about the visual spectacle; it’s about interactive fun! Experience how the Barbapapa characters bring the space alive, creating a vibrant atmosphere that transforms every corner of Asunal Kanayama.

Event Details:

• ⏰ Time: 17:00 to 23:00 (planned)
• 📍 Location: Asunal Kanayama
• 📞 Contact: 052-324-8577
• 🌐 Homepage: Visit Asunal Kanayama
• 🚆 Access: Just a minute’s walk from Kanayama Station via Subway, Meitetsu, or JR.

Whether you’re a fan of creative lights or just seeking a fun evening out, the Asunal Kanayama "Winter Illumination 2024" is an experience you won’t want to miss. Plus, if you’re visiting from out of town, 🛏️ discover nearby hotels here.

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For more inspiration and details about other sparkling events, check the Nagoya Illumination Feature 2023-2024.

Discover Hyogo’s Finest Craft Brews in Osaka (November 9th & 10th)

Ready to tantalize your taste buds with the best of Hyogo’s craft beer scene? For two days only, five of Hyogo Prefecture’s top breweries are coming together at Namba Marui in Osaka for "Brew Pubs in HYOGO." This isn’t your average beer festival – prepare for a unique experience showcasing locally-sourced ingredients and meticulous brewing methods.

With 10 draft beer servers pouring a diverse selection from each brewery, you’re sure to find your new favorite brew. Want to enjoy the taste of Hyogo at home? Limited quantities of bottled and canned beers will also be available for takeaway (while supplies last!).

What makes this event special?

• Meet the Brewers (Day 1): Get a personal pour from the brewery staff themselves and learn firsthand about their craft.
• Free Tasting Flight (Day 2): Sample a flight of 3 or 5 different beers and discover your perfect match.

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Event Details:

• Dates: November 9th (Saturday) & 10th (Sunday), 2024
• Time: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Ends on the second day when beers are sold out)
• Location: Namba Marui Basement 1F Event Space (3-8-9 Namba, Chuo-ku, Osaka City)
• Cost:
  • Day 1: 600 yen per cup
  • Day 2: Tasting Flight (3 kinds for 1500 yen, 5 kinds for 2000 yen)
• Contact: None
• Website: https://www.0101.co.jp/085/……

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GRAND WISH CHRISTMAS 2024: Experience the Magic of Infinite Lights (November 7th – December 25th)

(November 7th – December 25th)

Get ready to be dazzled! Grand Front Osaka transforms into a radiant wonderland this Christmas with "Infinity Lights," a celebration of wishes and winter magic. From November 7th to December 25th, experience the festive spirit like never before in the Umekita area.

At the heart of the celebration stands the magnificent "Infinity Wish Tree," a 10-meter tall spectacle in the North Building’s Knowledge Plaza. Resembling a shimmering kaleidoscope, this captivating centerpiece will host daily lighting shows, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.

But the brilliance doesn’t stop there! Grand Front Osaka joins forces with the newly opened Grand Green Osaka to present "Champagne Gold Illumination in UMEKITA." Prepare to be mesmerized by 250,000 twinkling lights, painting the evolving Umekita district in a warm, golden glow.

And mark your calendars for a unique spectacle! On December 19th, witness the "Grand Santa Parade in UMEKITA" as 500 Santa Clauses spread Christmas cheer (and eco-consciousness!) by distributing gifts and tidying up the city. This free event requires prior application, so be sure to sign up early as spots are limited.

This year’s Grand Wish Christmas promises an even more immersive and interactive experience compared to previous years, extending its reach to include the vibrant Grand Green Osaka and adding the unique element of the eco-conscious Santa Parade. Come and experience the magic!

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Event Details:

• Dates: November 7th (Thu) – December 25th (Wed), 2024
• Times: Vary by location within Grand Front Osaka. Check the official website for specific schedules.
• Locations: Grand Front Osaka North Building, South Building, Umekita Plaza, and other locations within the complex.
• Cost: Free
• Website: https://www.grandfront-osaka.jp/xmas2024/

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Dive into a World of Goldfish Art at the Art Aquarium Museum GINZA This Autumn

This November, prepare to be immersed in a unique blend of aquatic beauty and artistic expression at the Art Aquarium Museum GINZA. From November 2nd to December 9th, 2024, the museum presents a special exhibition showcasing the captivating world of goldfish, featuring exquisite maki-e lacquer art by Yuzo Eto and a vibrant Creators Market.

Experience the Elegance of Maki-e Goldfish Art

Admire the intricate artistry of rising lacquer artist Yuzo Eto, whose work brings goldfish to life through the traditional Japanese technique of maki-e. Around 20 pieces, ranging in size, will be on display, offering a rare opportunity to witness the delicate beauty and craftsmanship of this ancient art form. Select pieces will also be available for purchase, allowing you to take home a piece of this unique exhibition.

Discover One-of-a-Kind Goldfish Treasures at the Creators Market

Alongside the exhibition, the Art Aquarium Museum’s shop will host its first-ever Creators Market until December 8th. Discover an array of handcrafted goldfish-themed goods from emerging traditional craft artists and popular online creators. Find the perfect goldfish-inspired art, accessories, and unique gifts, with special limited-time items available only during this event. Here are a few of the featured creators:

• Goldfish Museum: Experience the beauty of autumn through handcrafted resin art, accessories, and miscellaneous goods, capturing the vibrant colors of goldfish amidst fall foliage and flowers.
• Luminous Goldfish: Marvel at the intricate papercraft goldfish kits, assembled using the curve folding technique and adorned with traditional Japanese patterns.
• Wabique: Embrace Japanese tradition with contemporary accessories crafted from vintage kimono fabrics. These unique pieces offer a touch of timeless elegance for everyday wear.

Plan Your Visit

Dates: November 2nd (Sat) – December 9th (Mon), 2024 (Closed on Ginza Mitsukoshi closing days, plus occasional maintenance days. Check the official website for details.)

Time: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Last entry 6:00 PM) Subject to change.

Venue: Art Aquarium Museum GINZA, 8F Ginza Mitsukoshi New Building, 4-6-16 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061

Nearest Station: Ginza Station

MAP

Admission:

• Web Ticket: ¥2,500
• Same-day Ticket: ¥2,700 (Available on the 9th floor of Ginza Mitsukoshi New Building)

Official Website: https://artaquarium.jp/news/detail/202410313852/

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

✨ HIBIYA Magic Time Illumination 2024: Experience the Magic of Moana and More! ✨

Get ready to be enchanted this winter at the HIBIYA Magic Time Illumination, returning to light up the Hibiya district after dazzling nearly 4.2 million visitors last year! This year’s theme, "a magical moment," promises an even more captivating experience with unique displays and a special collaboration with Disney’s "Moana and the Legend of the Sea 2."

Dive into Moana’s World at Hibiya Step Plaza

This year, Hibiya Step Plaza transforms into a mesmerizing oceanic wonderland inspired by "Moana and the Legend of the Sea 2." Seven shimmering Christmas trees will evoke the film’s vibrant world, creating a truly immersive experience. Don’t miss this chance to step into Moana’s world!

Witness Nature’s Spectacle Along Hibiya Naka-dori

Prepare to be awestruck by the Hibiya Naka-dori illuminations, which mimic rare celestial events. The display will shift through four breathtaking themes, mirroring the changing seasons:

• Blue Moment: (November 14 – December 6, 2024)
• Aurora Green: (December 7 – December 25, 2024)
• Sunset Gold: (December 26, 2024 – January 31, 2025)
• Pink Venus Belt: (February 1 – February 28, 2025)

Sparkle Under the Stars at Park View Winter Garden

Hibiya, known as the "city of entertainment," sets the stage for a dazzling display at Park View Winter Garden. Inspired by starlit stages and celestial pathways, this unique illumination will feature innovative botanical lights powered by plants and microorganisms.

Event Details:

Disney’s "Moana and the Legend of the Sea 2" presents HIBIYA WINTER SQUARE:

• Location: Tokyo Midtown Hibiya, Hibiya Step Plaza
• Dates: November 14 – December 25, 2024
• Lighting Time: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM

HIBIYA AREA ILLUMINATION:

• Location: Hibiya Naka-dori
• Dates: November 14, 2024 – February 28, 2025 (Themes change throughout the period – see above)
• Lighting Time: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM

PARK VIEW WINTER GARDEN:

• Location: Tokyo Midtown Hibiya 6F Park View Garden
• Dates: Mid-November 2024 – February 28, 2025
• Lighting Time: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM

General Information:

• Location/Nearest Station: Tokyo Midtown Hibiya (Hibiya Station / Yurakucho Station)
• Address: 1-1-2 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 〒100-0006
• Map
• Venues: Hibiya Naka-dori, Tokyo Midtown Hibiya Hibiya Step Plaza, 6F Park View Garden
• Overall Event Period: November 14, 2024 – February 28, 2025 (Specific dates vary by event; check the official website for details.)
• Official Website: https://www.hibiya.tokyo-midtown.com/jp/event/6757/

Plan Your Visit:

• 🛏️ See hotels near Tokyo

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

Sparkle and Shine at Nagoya Lucent Tower’s Winter Illumination

Get ready to be dazzled! The Nagoya Lucent Tower is transforming into a winter wonderland with a vibrant and dynamic illumination display. This year’s show promises a captivating spectacle of light and color, featuring regularly scheduled illumination shows that will take your breath away.

What Makes This Year’s Illumination Special?

While details on what sets this year’s display apart are scarce, the promise of a "dynamic and colorful" presentation suggests an enhanced experience compared to previous years. Keep an eye out for more updates as the event draws closer! We’ll be sure to share any news on specific themes, new lighting technologies, or special show elements as soon as it’s released.

Featured Highlight:

Nagoya Illumination Feature 2023-2024

Plan Your Visit:

Make the most of your visit with this essential information:

• Illumination Hours: Daily from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM (17:00～23:00)
• Location: Nagoya Lucent Tower
• Contact: 052-589-0631
• Website: http://www.lucent-tower.jp/
• Getting There: A short 5-minute walk from the Sakura-dori Exit of JR Nagoya Station.

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