Taste and Vote: Kanda Curry Grand Prix 2024 🔥

Get Ready for a Curry Showdown! 🍛

Calling all curry lovers! Prepare your taste buds for the 12th annual Kanda Curry Grand Prix, where you decide which curry reigns supreme. Sample dishes from 20 of Kanda’s top curry restaurants, all vying for your vote! This isn’t just a food festival; it’s a culinary competition where you are the judge.

Kanda, Tokyo, boasts over 400 curry houses, earning its reputation as a fierce curry battleground. The Grand Prix, started in 2011, brings together the best of the best, letting you directly compare and choose your champion. The event is part of the larger "Kanda Curry Town Eating Tour Stamp Rally," which includes over 100 participating restaurants. This year, the Grand Prix moves to a new, more convenient location: the former Imagawa Junior High School site, near Kanda Station.

Event Details 📅

• Venue: Former Imagawa Junior High School Site
• Nearest Station: Kanda Station
• Address: 2-4-2 Kaji-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo (MAP)
• Dates: November 2nd (Sat) – November 3rd (Sun/Holiday), 2024
• Times:
  • Curry Serving: Saturday, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Sunday, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Voting: Until Sunday, 4:00 PM
  • Opening Ceremony: 10:40 AM (Saturday)
  • Award Ceremony: 5:00 PM (Sunday)
• Cost: Free admission! (Curry portions are individually priced)
• Contact: Kanda Curry Town Revitalization Committee ([email protected])
• Website: Kanda Curry Grand Prix Official Site
• Weather: Event will be canceled in case of severe weather; otherwise, it will be held rain or shine.

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

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Setagaya Bread Festival 2024: A Bread Lover’s Paradise 🥖

Get ready to carb-load! The Setagaya Bread Festival returns for its 14th year this November, bringing a delicious array of baked goods and bread-related delights to Setagaya Park in Tokyo. With approximately 140 vendors from across Japan, this isn’t just a festival—it’s a bread lover’s dream come true.

Imagine strolling through Setagaya Park, the aroma of freshly baked bread filling the air. Discover unique loaves from all corners of Japan, alongside perfect pairings like jams, spreads, and other bread-compatible treats. Whether you’re a sourdough aficionado, a croissant connoisseur, or just love a good ol’ slice of toast, there’s something here for everyone. And to complement your carb-filled adventure, enjoy a selection of coffee, alcoholic beverages, and other refreshments. This year’s event promises 140-150 vendors spread across two days of bread-tastic fun!

Stay tuned for updates! This year’s theme, vendor list, and detailed program will be announced on the official Setagaya Bread Festival website and social media channels.

Essential Event Details 📅

Location & Access:

• Setagaya Park: Link to Setagaya Park
• Nearest Station: Ikejiri-Ohashi Station
• Address: 〒154-0001 Tokyo, Setagaya Ward, Ikejiri 1-chome
• Map: Google Maps Link
• Also at: Mishuku 420 Shotengai member stores

Dates & Times:

• Saturday, November 2nd, 2024: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Sunday, November 3rd, 2024 (Holiday): 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Scheduled)

Admission: Free!

Contact:

• Setagaya Bread Festival Executive Committee
• Email: [email protected]

Stay Connected:

• Website: http://www.setagaya-panmatsuri.com
• X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/Panmatsuri
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/panmatsuri
• Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/setagayapanmatsuri

Accommodation:

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

Merry Christmas 2024 at Noritake Garden

Get ready to experience a Christmas wonderland like no other! This year, Noritake Garden is decking the halls with more than just the usual twinkling trees. For the first time, one of the iconic chimney monuments has been transformed into a dazzling Christmas tree, adding a unique and whimsical touch to the festive atmosphere. 🎄

And who could forget Santa? You’ll find him in two merry locations: cheerfully perched beside the traditional Christmas tree, and hilariously stuck in the chimney monument (we suspect it’s his jolly belly that caused the predicament! 😂).

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Sharpen your wits and put on your walking shoes for a special crossword puzzle rally, starting Saturday, November 23rd. Explore the beautifully decorated grounds while solving clues and enjoying the festive spirit.

What makes this year’s celebration special? The transformed chimney monument tree is a first for Noritake Garden, creating a memorable and unique Christmas spectacle.

Here’s what awaits you:

• Multiple Christmas Trees: Admire a variety of beautifully decorated trees, including the innovative chimney monument tree.
• Santa Sightings: Snap a photo with Santa in two different locations.
• Crossword Puzzle Rally: Test your knowledge and explore the garden with a fun and engaging crossword puzzle rally (starting November 23rd).
• Dazzling Illuminations: Witness the garden come alive with magical illuminations every evening.

Event Details:

• Dates: November 23, 2024 – December 25, 2024 (Closed Mondays, Open December 23rd)
• Hours: 9:00 – 21:00 (Illuminations: 16:30 – 21:00)
• Venue: Noritake Garden, North side plaza of the Red Brick Building
• Admission: Free
• Contact: Noritake Garden TEL: (052) 561-7114 FAX: (052) 561-7276
• Website: https://www.noritake.co.jp/mori/

Getting There:

• Subway: A short 5-minute walk from Exit 2 of Kamejima Station on the Higashiyama Subway Line. Turn left (east) immediately after exiting, go under the Shinkansen overpass, and turn left at the second intersection (Wanouchi-cho). The East Gate is about 50m ahead on your left.
• Bus: From Nagoya Station Bus Terminal, Platform 6, take the Meieki 13 Route (Kodama-cho via Kami-Iida/Nakagiri-cho bound or Tenjinzan bound) and get off at "Noritake Garden" (approximately 3 minutes).

Accommodation:

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What is Noritake Garden?

Noritake Garden is a captivating cultural and historical site located in Nagoya, Japan. This beautifully landscaped garden is part of the Noritake Company’s historic grounds, and it serves as a tribute to the rich legacy of the brand, which is renowned worldwide for its fine ceramics. The garden seamlessly blends lush greenery with industrial heritage, providing visitors a serene escape from urban life.

The site offers more than just natural beauty; it is also home to a museum showcasing Noritake’s exquisite porcelain and ceramics, highlighting over a century of craftsmanship and innovation. The garden area includes picturesque walking paths, art installations, and interactive exhibits that delve into the history of ceramic production. Furthermore, there are opportunities for visitors to engage in workshops where they can try their hand at designing their own ceramics.

Noritake Garden’s commitment to sustainability and cultural education makes it a unique destination for both locals and tourists. Whether you are drawn by an interest in art and design, the allure of nature, or the desire to learn about Japanese industrial heritage, Noritake Garden offers a memorable experience for all ages. During the holiday season, the grounds also transform into a festive wonderland, making it an ideal venue for the Merry Christmas 2024 celebrations.

Omotesando Hills Christmas 2024: A Kaleidoscope of Light

Experience the Dazzling "Christmas Tree of Light" at Omotesando Hills

Get ready to be mesmerized! This Christmas, Omotesando Hills unveils a breathtaking "Christmas Tree of Light," a radiant spectacle designed by award-winning architect Yuji Okitsu. Standing tall at 8.4 meters, this isn’t your average Christmas tree. Constructed from a record-breaking 40,000 individual lenses, it’s one of Okitsu’s largest lens-based creations to date.

Inspired by Omotesando’s vibrant cultural tapestry and trendsetting spirit, the tree captures the district’s multifaceted energy. Each lens, like a piece of a kaleidoscope, reflects the diverse flow of people passing through Omotesando. The tree’s double spiral and ring structure, echoing the iconic spiral slope within Omotesando Hills itself, symbolizes the intersection of cultures that makes this area so unique.

Crafted from incredibly lightweight and thin Fresnel lenses—each a mere 5.5cm in diameter and 0.3mm thick—the tree creates an ever-shifting spectacle of light and reflections. Every angle offers a new perspective, promising a visual experience unlike anything you’ve seen before.

Adding to the immersive experience, lens ornaments adorn the atrium space above the tree. The unique spiral architecture of Omotesando Hills allows you to admire the tree and its shimmering reflections from multiple vantage points. Capture the magic of Christmas through your own lens, and share the sparkling wonder with the world.

For an even closer look, a dedicated photo spot on the grand staircase offers the perfect opportunity to experience the brilliance and reflective qualities of the lenses up close. Enhance your shopping spree with a dazzling display of light and art.

*The photo spot is scheduled to be available starting November 14th (Thursday).

Adding another layer of enchantment, a special two-minute sound and light performance will take place every 20 minutes. The first performance begins at 11:20 AM, with the final show illuminating the night at 10:20 PM. (Note: On the opening day, November 13th, the lights will turn on at 4:00 PM.)

Event Details:

• Venue: Omotesando Hills
• Nearest Stations: Omotesando Station, Harajuku Station, Meiji-jingumae ‘Harajuku’ Station
• Address: 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya Ward, Jingumae 4-12-10
• Map: Google Maps
• Dates: November 13th (Wednesday) – December 25th (Wednesday), 2024
• Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Subject to change)
• Official Website: Opens November 8th (Friday)

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

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What is Omotesando Hills?

Omotesando Hills is a renowned shopping and entertainment complex located in the upscale Omotesando district of Tokyo, Japan. Opened in 2006, it was designed by the acclaimed architect Tadao Ando and has become an iconic part of Tokyo’s urban landscape. The complex spans six floors above ground and six below, featuring a variety of high-end boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and event spaces. Its modern architectural design blends seamlessly with the historic charm of the area, offering visitors a sophisticated shopping experience. Omotesando Hills is not only a hub for fashion and luxury but also hosts numerous cultural and artistic events throughout the year, attracting both locals and tourists alike.

KITTE Nagoya SYNC LINK CHRISTMAS: A Dazzling Interactive Holiday Experience

This Christmas, KITTE Nagoya invites you to a unique celebration of light and connection, with the theme "SYNC LINK." Prepare to be enchanted by a vibrant, interactive display that promises a truly memorable holiday experience.

Control the Light: The SYNC LINK TREE

At the heart of this year’s festivities is the magnificent, 10-meter tall SYNC LINK TREE, located in the 1st-floor atrium. This isn’t just any Christmas tree – it’s an interactive spectacle of light and color. Head to the 2nd-floor connecting passageway and grab a "SHAKE SYNC" device. With it, you can change the tree’s illumination to your favorite color from a palette of 8 vibrant options, watching as your chosen hue washes over the giant tree. This unique interactive element lets you become part of the display, sharing the joy of Christmas with everyone around you. Don’t miss the "Mini SYNC LINK TREE" also located on the 2nd floor, offering a calming display of synchronized light within a dedicated photo spot.

Period: 2024/11/13 (Wed) – 12/25 (Wed)
[Location]: SYNC LINK TREE: 1st floor Atrium; Mini SYNC LINK TREE: 2nd floor Connecting Passageway

SYNC LINK LIGHTING: A Symphony of Light and Sound

Throughout the event period, KITTE Nagoya will come alive with the "SYNC LINK LIGHTING" show. Approximately 100,000 LEDs will illuminate the atrium in a dynamic display of color, synchronized to festive Christmas music. This captivating show promises to create a truly immersive holiday atmosphere.

Period: 2024/11/13 (Wed) – 12/25 (Wed)
Time: 12:30, 14:30, 16:30, 18:00, 18:30, 19:00, 19:30, 20:00, 20:30, 21:00
[Location]: 1st floor Atrium

• Event times are subject to change.

Light Up Ceremony: Ignite the Holiday Spirit

Join the "Light Up Ceremony Connecting with Light" on November 13th and be a part of illuminating the SYNC LINK TREE. Enjoy a live performance by the Free Hills Jazz Orchestra, a talented big band composed of student musicians from in and around Nagoya. Their energetic jazz performance will set the perfect festive mood as the tree bursts into vibrant color.

[Location]: 1st floor Atrium

SYNC LINK COLORS!: Three Days of Festive Fun

From December 20th to 22nd, KITTE Nagoya presents "SYNC LINK COLORS!," three days of unique performances and workshops.

• December 20th: MUSIC LIVE PAN NOTE MAGIC – Experience the soothing sounds of the steelpan, played by a leading Japanese orchestra. This unique instrument, crafted from oil drums, will fill the air with enchanting Caribbean-inspired Christmas melodies. Two performances at 18:30-19:00 and 19:30-20:00 (scheduled).

• December 21st: ENTERTAINMENT SHOW POI LAB – Witness the mesmerizing art of poi with POI LAB, a creative team pushing the boundaries of this dynamic performance. Trails of light and energetic movements will create a captivating spectacle against the backdrop of the Christmas night. Two performances at 17:30-18:00 and 19:00-19:30 (scheduled).

• December 22nd: WORKSHOP Connecting with Light SHAKE SYNC WORKSHOP – Participate in a hands-on workshop led by Associate Professor Kamiyoshi of Osaka University, a key figure in the development of the SHAKE SYNC technology. Explore the creative possibilities of light and color using the SHAKE SYNC devices, collaborating with others to create unique light displays. Two sessions at 13:00-13:30 and 14:30-15:00 (scheduled).

Exterior Illumination: A Festive Glow

Stroll along Meieki-dori Street and admire the festive glow of 24 street trees adorned with approximately 27,000 LED lights. This enchanting display will brighten the area throughout the holiday season and beyond.

Period: 2024/11/13 (Wed) – 2025/2/28 (Fri)
[Lighting Time]: 17:00-23:00
[Location]: Exterior along Meieki-dori Street / North Side Step Garden

Spot Information: KITTE Nagoya

KITTE Nagoya, located within the JP Tower Nagoya complex, offers a blend of Nagoya’s unique character and modern innovation. This vibrant commercial facility, spanning from the basement 1st floor to the 3rd floor, aims to create a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere while contributing to the city’s dynamic energy.

See spot details

Featured In:

Nagoya Illumination Feature 2023-2024

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Event Location: KITTE Nagoya
Contact: KITTE Nagoya Service Center
TEL: 052-589-8511 (English inquiries not accepted)
*Weekdays 10:00-17:30
Website URL: https://jptower-kittenagoya.jp/
Access: ●1-minute walk from JR "Nagoya" Station
●Directly connected to Meitetsu, Kintetsu, and Subway "Nagoya" Station

What is KITTE Nagoya?

KITTE Nagoya is a shopping and dining complex located in Nagoya, Japan. It serves as a modern retail and lifestyle destination, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. The complex is known for its contemporary architecture and convenient location, often attracting both locals and tourists. As part of its offerings, KITTE Nagoya typically includes a mix of local and international brands, providing a diverse shopping experience.

Experience the Magic of WHITE KITTE this Christmas

Bask in the Warm Glow of Tokyo’s Breathtaking Holiday Spectacle

This Christmas season, prepare to be enchanted by WHITE KITTE, a heartwarming celebration of light and sound at the KITTE complex in Tokyo. From November 20th to December 25th, 2024, step into a world of wonder, centered around the magnificent "Breeze Tree."

This year’s centerpiece, the "Breeze Tree," is a towering 13.5-meter real fir tree, adorned with 30,000 twinkling LEDs. Draped in a flowing, 100-meter white veil designed with a delicate ribbon motif, the tree creates a captivating focal point within the first-floor atrium. The veil extends from the ceiling, enveloping the entire space in a warm, ethereal glow.

Adding to the magic, the "Heartwarming ~Lighting Show of Light and Sound Enveloping the Future~" will illuminate the atrium daily. Synchronized music and a vibrant display of six colors will create an immersive experience, with different presentations offered during the first and second halves of the event period.

Capture the perfect holiday memory at the "Angel Light Photo Spot," featuring 2.2-meter-tall angel wings. Pose for photos as if embraced by these celestial wings, and share the festive spirit with loved ones. For an interactive experience, try blowing on the decorative candles to send lights dancing up the tree, illuminating it in your own unique colors.

Beyond the "Breeze Tree," explore a variety of white-themed decorations and captivating installations inspired by wind and light trails, creating a truly immersive holiday experience.

Event Details

• Location: KITTE (Tokyo Station / Nijubashimae <Marunouchi> Station / Otemachi Station)
• Address: 〒100-7012 Tokyo, Chiyoda-ku, Marunouchi 2-7-2 MAP
• Dates: November 20th (Wed) – December 25th (Wed), 2024
• Time: 11:00 – 22:00
• Cost: Free
• Contact: KITTE Information Center 03-3216-2811
• Website: https://kasei.cmrc.co.jp/shop/white_kitte2024/

Please Note:

• Images are for illustrative purposes.
• Event content is subject to change. Please check the official website for the latest information.

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What is KITTE?

KITTE is a shopping and dining complex located in Tokyo, Japan. It is situated near Tokyo Station in the Marunouchi area and was opened by Japan Post. The complex is housed in the former Tokyo Central Post Office building, which was redesigned to blend historic architecture with modern elements. KITTE features a variety of retail stores, restaurants, and cultural spaces, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Additionally, it offers a rooftop garden with views of Tokyo Station and its surroundings.

Shinjuku Minami Lumiere: A Dazzling Celebration of Light and Color

Experience the Magic of Shinjuku’s 10th Annual Illumination Extravaganza

Get ready to be mesmerized! Shinjuku Minami Lumiere returns for its 10th anniversary, transforming the district into a breathtaking spectacle of light and color. With the theme "Light, Colors. Heart, Dances. ~colorful & heartful~", this year’s event promises an even more enchanting experience. Six distinct locations throughout Shinjuku will boast unique illuminations, each with its own captivating theme, creating a harmonious and unforgettable visual symphony.

Explore the Radiant Displays:

• Suica Penguin Square: WELCOME to SHINJUKU Minami-Rumi!

Embrace the festive spirit at Suica Penguin Square, located outside the New South Exit of JR Shinjuku Station (celebrating its 140th anniversary in March 2025!). Walk through the luminous "Welcome Gate," bathed in a cheerful Hello! Blue!, and snap a photo with the returning "SHINJUKU" letter object, perfect for capturing the moment. Admire the adorable Suica penguins along the Blue Lighting Road.
* Dates: November 15, 2024 – February 14, 2025 (planned)
* Suica’s penguin is JR East’s Suica character. Suica is a registered trademark of JR East.

• JR South Shinjuku Building: Brilliant Gold & Luxury

Bask in the warm glow of traditional Christmas elegance. A dazzling Christmas tree and exterior illuminations will greet you at the entrance, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
* Dates: Christmas tree: November 15, 2024 – December 25, 2024 (planned). Exterior illuminations: November 15, 2024 – February 14, 2025 (planned).

• JR Shinjuku Miraina Tower: Nature Christmas

Experience the serenity of a nature-inspired Christmas. The office entrance will be transformed into a comforting space filled with natural scents and warmth. A newly installed lighting system behind the tree creates a dynamic and captivating display, visible from both inside and outside the building.
* Dates: November 15, 2024 – December 25, 2024 (planned)

• Shinjuku My Tower: FOREST x SNOW

Escape the urban hustle and enter a fantastical winter wonderland. A symbol tree adorned with silver and white illuminations evokes a starry sky, while lush greenery creates a sense of warmth and vitality. The white and blue color scheme captures the crisp winter air and the tranquil snowy landscape, offering a moment of peace and healing.
* Dates: November 15, 2024 – February 14, 2025 (planned)

• Takashimaya Times Square: Find your happiness!

Discover your own happiness at Takashimaya Times Square. The "Garden of Light" at the 2nd-floor JR entrance features a vibrant green symbol tree decorated with orange and gold ornaments and ribbon motifs. The 2nd-floor terrace deck is illuminated with a golden glow, creating a joyful and connected space.
* Dates: Overall illuminations: November 13, 2024 – February 14, 2025 (planned). Christmas tree: November 13, 2024 – December 25, 2024 (planned).

• Shinjuku Southern Terrace / Odakyu Southern Tower: HELLO WINTER Light Show!

Celebrate the spirit of global connection with a vibrant and welcoming light show. Colorful illuminations create a joyful atmosphere, while the Twinkly Lighting System projects various greetings, including "HELLO," in different languages. Capture the magic with photos of the numerous colorful light-up spots.
* Dates: November 15, 2024 – February 14, 2025 (planned)

Event Details:

• Locations & Access:

  • JR South Shinjuku Building (Shinjuku Station)
  • Suica Penguin Square (Shinjuku Station)
  • Shinjuku Southern Terrace (Shinjuku Station / South Shinjuku Station / Yoyogi Station)
  • Takashimaya Times Square (Shinjuku Station)
  • JR Shinjuku Miraina Tower (Shinjuku Station)
  • Shinjuku My Tower (Shinjuku Station)

• General Event Period: November 15, 2024 – February 14, 2025 (Specific dates may vary by location.)

• Official Website: Launching November 1, 2024, at 10:00 AM

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

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What is Shinjuku Minami?

Shinjuku Minami generally refers to the southern area of the Shinjuku district in Tokyo, Japan. This area is known for its bustling urban landscape, featuring an array of shopping centers, office buildings, and transportation hubs. It is particularly recognized for its proximity to Shinjuku Station, one of the busiest train stations in the world, which offers extensive connectivity throughout Tokyo and beyond. Shinjuku Minami is a vibrant part of the city, characterized by its modern architecture, commercial activity, and a wide variety of dining and entertainment options.

✨ Tokyo Mega Illumi: Where Horses Meet Holiday Lights ✨

Experience the magic of Tokyo Mega Illumi, a dazzling winter wonderland at the Oi Racecourse! This isn’t your average light display; imagine vibrant illuminations combined with the unique charm of interacting with horses – all set against the backdrop of a spacious racecourse.

A Spectacular Fusion of Light and Horses

Wander through a breathtaking 100m tunnel of light and be mesmerized by the captivating fountain show. But the real magic happens when you meet the stars of the show: adorable miniature horses and ponies! On select days, you can even book a pony ride or a horse-drawn carriage experience (separate fee and advance reservations required). Don’t miss the special "fountain x lead horse show" – a truly unique spectacle.

Conveniently Located Near You

Located near the city center and easily accessible from Haneda Airport, with ample parking available, Tokyo Mega Illumi is the perfect winter outing. Plenty of restaurants and unique souvenir shops are on-site, ensuring a delightful experience for all ages.

Plan Your Visit

Dates: November 2nd, 2024 – January 12th, 2025
Closed on Oi Racecourse racing days and December 28th and January 1st.

Time: 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Lighting times may vary depending on attendance.

Location: Oi Racecourse (Tokyo City Keiba 【TCK】)
Oi Racecourse (Tokyo City Keiba 【TCK】)
2-1-2 Katsushima, Shinagawa Ward, Tokyo 〒140-0012
Google Maps
Oi Keibajo Mae Station (2-minute walk), Tachiaigawa Station (12-minute walk)

Admission:

Schedule A (Weekdays):

• Advance Ticket (Date Specified): Adults (18+) ¥800, Children (Elementary/Junior High/High School) ¥400
• Same-Day Ticket: Adults (18+) ¥1200, Children (Elementary/Junior High/High School) ¥600

Schedule B (Weekends, 12/24, 1/2, 1/3):

• Advance Ticket (Date Specified): Adults (18+) ¥1000, Children (Elementary/Junior High/High School) ¥500
• Same-Day Ticket: Adults (18+) ¥1500, Children (Elementary/Junior High/High School) ¥800

Contact: Tokyo Mega Illumi Management Office
03-3762-5230
https://tokyomegaillumi.jp/forms/contact/

Website: Tokyo Mega Illumi Official Website

Weather: Rain or shine, canceled only in severe weather. Check the official website or social media for updates.

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

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What is Oi Racecourse?

Oi Racecourse, commonly referred to as Tokyo City Keiba (TCK), is a prominent horse racing track located in Tokyo, Japan. The racecourse is known for hosting various horse racing events, including both daytime and nighttime races, which are popularly known as "Twinkle Races." It offers a unique experience for visitors with its modern facilities and vibrant atmosphere. Oi Racecourse is a key venue in the Japanese horse racing circuit and attracts a large number of spectators and bettors.

Experience the Magic of the 118th Christmas Step Concert🎶

1,500 Free Tickets Available! Celebrate the Holidays at Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall

Get ready for a festive evening of enchanting classical music at the 118th Christmas Step Concert! This annual tradition, held at the prestigious Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall, offers 1,500 free tickets, making world-class performances accessible to everyone. This year’s concert promises a delightful program perfect for the whole family, from beloved holiday classics to breathtaking operatic arias. And back by popular demand, the "Conductor Challenge Corner" returns, giving children (and the young at heart) a chance to lead the orchestra!

What Makes This Year Special?

While every Christmas Step Concert is unique, this year’s event features a captivating mix of familiar favorites and exciting new additions to the program. Experience the thrill of hearing timeless holiday tunes like "White Christmas" and "The Christmas Song" alongside powerful classical pieces like Smetana’s "Vltava" and Sarasate’s fiery "Zigeunerweisen." This blend of festive cheer and musical virtuosity is sure to create an unforgettable holiday experience.

Meet the Performers

This year’s concert boasts a stellar lineup of talent, including:

• Mariko Senju: Personality & Violin
• Masahiko Enkoji: Conductor
• Ken Nishikiori: Tenor
• New Japan Philharmonic: Orchestra
• Megumi Yoshimoto: MC

A Sneak Peek at the Program:

• Bernard (Arranged by Hajime Ueshiba) / Winter Wonderland
• Anderson / Blue Tango
• Puccini / "E lucevan le stelle" from the opera Tosca
• Gounod / "Salut! demeure chaste et pure" from the opera Faust
• Sarasate / Zigeunerweisen
• Smetana / Symphonic Poem Vltava (The Moldau)
• Tchaikovsky / "March" from the ballet suite The Nutcracker
• Capua / ‘O sole mio
• Giese / Jealousy
• Tormé & Wells (Arranged by Akira Senju) / The Christmas Song
• Irving Berlin / White Christmas

Please note that the program and order of songs are subject to change.

Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, December 3, 2024
• Time: Doors open at 6:00 PM, Concert begins at 6:50 PM, Concert ends at 8:50 PM
• Venue: Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall (Takemitsu Memorial, 3F Tokyo Opera City Tower, 3-20-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 〒163-1403)
• Nearest Station: Hachikōji Station
• Map

Ticket Information:

• Admission: Free (all seats require tickets)
• Application: Apply online via the Sumitomo Realty & Development website. Up to 5 people can apply per entry.
• Preschool children are not allowed to enter.
• Lottery: A lottery system will be used if applications exceed available tickets.
• Ticket Delivery: Winners will be notified and receive their tickets approximately two weeks before the concert date. Applications by postcard are not accepted.

Learn More:

• Official Website: https://www.sumitomo-rd.co.jp/step_concert/tokyo/
• Apply Here
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Please note that the published content may be subject to change. For the latest information, please check the venue’s and organizer’s official websites.

What is Tokyo Opera City?

Tokyo Opera City is a major cultural complex located in the Shinjuku ward of Tokyo, Japan. It is renowned for its concert hall, known for its excellent acoustics, and serves as a prominent venue for opera, classical music concerts, and other performing arts. The complex also houses an art gallery, restaurants, shops, and office spaces. The innovative design and multifaceted facilities make Tokyo Opera City a significant destination for both locals and tourists interested in cultural events.

Groove into Autumn with Jazzcalabash: Osaka’s Hottest Jazz Fest (Saturday, November 23rd)

Get ready to swing into the heart of Osaka’s vibrant jazz scene! Jazzcalabash, the much-anticipated circuit-style jazz festival, returns on Saturday, November 23rd, promising a day of electrifying performances. This year marks the festival’s fourth edition, and it’s bigger and better than ever.

Imagine having access to 52 sets of live music performed by over 80 top-tier musicians across 11 different venues – all with one single wristband! That’s the magic of Jazzcalabash. Explore Osaka’s legendary jazz clubs and discover new favorites as you hop from one electrifying performance to the next.

Curated by a committee of passionate musicians, including jazz pianist Yugo Nagata, this year’s lineup represents the freshest and coolest sounds in Kansai jazz. And it’s not just about the music! Jazzcalabash 2024 is bringing new flavors to the mix with delicious food offerings from local Osaka restaurants and exclusive event sticker merchandise.

What’s new this year? Alongside even more venues to explore, you’ll discover tasty treats from local restaurants and collectible event stickers to commemorate the experience.

Don’t miss this chance to experience the best of Kansai jazz. Grab your tickets and prepare for a day of unforgettable music!

---

Date: Saturday, November 23rd, 2024 (National Holiday)

Time: Doors open 11:00 AM, Music starts 12:00 PM, Ends 9:00 PM (Come and go as you please!)

Venues: ROYAL HORSE (Miyuki Building 1F, 15-13 Toganocho, Kita-ku, Osaka City), and 10 other venues

Tickets:

• General Admission: ¥4,500
• Age 22 and Under: ¥2,000
• Junior High School Students and Younger: Free (Preschoolers welcome)

Contact: [email protected] or various SNS

Website: https://jazzcalabash.com/

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What are Osaka’s historic jazz venues?

Osaka, known for its vibrant music scene, has several historic jazz venues that have played significant roles in the city’s cultural landscape. One of the most renowned is the Blue Note Osaka, which, although part of a larger international chain, has become a key spot for jazz enthusiasts. Another important venue is Mister Kelly’s, known for hosting both local and international jazz artists. Additionally, Royal Horse is a classic venue offering live jazz performances, steeped in a rich history. These venues have contributed to Osaka’s reputation as a center for jazz in Japan, offering a mix of traditional and contemporary styles.