Experience the Electrifying Osaka Fringe Festival 2024! (October 17th – November 18th)

Get ready for a month of non-stop entertainment! After a five-year hiatus, Japan’s largest performing arts festival is back, bringing a vibrant mix of theater, comedy, dance, circus acts, music, singing, spoken word, and exhibitions to the streets of Osaka. From October 17th to November 18th, the city, particularly the Minami area, will transform into a stage, showcasing talent from both seasoned professionals and aspiring amateurs, from Japan and across the globe.

Forget traditional venues! This year’s Fringe Festival spills out of theaters and concert halls, popping up in unexpected locations like bars, parks, and even bus stops. Prepare to be captivated by “first-class performing arts” that will ignite your emotions and spark your imagination.

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Dates: October 17th (Thu) – November 18th (Mon), 2024
Time: Varies by program – check the official website for details.
Location: Primarily in the Minami area, encompassing theaters, halls, shopping streets, restaurants, and commercial facilities.
Admission: Free!
Contact: Osaka Fringe Festival Office: 06-6624-9688 (Weekdays 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
Website: https://osakafringe.com/

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OPENING EVENT

The opening event will be held over 3 days from Friday, October 18th to Sunday, October 20th!
*Friday, October 18th is Press Day.

Main Venue

Namba Plaza

October 18th (Fri) – October 20th (Sun) 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Satellite Venue

Tonbori Riverwalk

October 18th (Fri) – October 20th (Sun) 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM

OPENING EVENT ARTISTS

• Ooseto Chishima
• Kouki Sakai (Special Stage)
• Gekidan Corps (Theatre Corps)
• Kumiko Shimizu
• MOMONA & ruiga
• Masaki Murata
• Kansai Aerial
• Monsieur Masa
• SPiN
• Harutaka
• Megto
• Erina
• Hibinaohiro
• Rei Tsumugishiro
• Hiroki Fukui
• Miwa Utakage
• Soyujin
• OSAKA NIGHT FUSION

VENUE (General Festival)

In 2024, the Osaka Fringe Festival will be held in the heart of Minami, including Namba Plaza, considered the birthplace of performing arts in Japan!

Venues (General Festival)

Namba Plaza and other locations in the Minami area.

October 17th (Thu) – November 18th (Mon)

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Onigiri NOW: A Celebration of Japan’s Soul Food at Tokyo Station

Discover the exciting evolution of onigiri at the inaugural Onigiri NOW fair, held at Tokyo Station’s GranSta Tokyo and GranSta Marunouchi from October 15th to November 17th, 2024. More than just a staple, onigiri has become a culinary sensation, captivating taste buds both in Japan and internationally. This fair showcases the innovative spirit of onigiri, offering everything from classic comfort to exciting new creations.

A Culinary Adventure Awaits

Ready to embark on a delicious journey? Onigiri NOW offers a diverse array of 16 unique onigiri, including 6 exclusive to GranSta, highlighting the vibrant “now” of this beloved food. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a picnic treat, or a taste of something new, there’s an onigiri waiting for you. Here are some highlights:

Exclusive Onigiri Creations:

GranSta Tokyo Exclusives:

• Taiwanese Onigiri (Sausage): Experience authentic Taiwanese flavors with this rectangular onigiri packed with sausage, youtiao (fried bread), peanuts, quail eggs, mustard greens, and fried onions, all wrapped in black rice. (780 yen, Taiwan 101, B1 Inside the ticket gate Square Zero Area, from 9:30 a.m., 20 pieces/day)
• NEW! Fillet Cutlet Onigiri Sandwich: Indulge in Tonkatsu Maisen’s signature tender fillet cutlet, complete with their special sauce and black pepper mayonnaise, nestled between rice and wrapped in an egg omelet. (486 yen, Tonkatsu Maisen, B1 Inside the ticket gate Square Zero Area, from 10:00 a.m., 20 pieces/day)
• Shrimp Tempura Twin Towers: Double the shrimp, double the delight! Omusubi Momochichi’s popular shrimp tempura onigiri gets a supersized upgrade with two towering tempura shrimp, generously coated in a special sauce. (400 yen, Omusubi Momochichi, 1F Inside the ticket gate Keiyo Street Area)
• Red Salmon Ikura: Savor the taste of autumn with this limited-time onigiri featuring fragrant grilled red salmon flakes and a generous topping of Hokkaido ikura. Choose from white, brown, or black rice. (380 yen, TARO TOKYO ONIGIRI, B1 Inside the ticket gate Square Zero Area)
• Saba Stick: Enjoy the classic flavors of grilled mackerel sushi in a convenient, onigiri-inspired form. Wakako TOKYO combines savory grilled mackerel with special dashi rice and a hint of chopped ginger. (680 yen, Wakako TOKYO, B1 Inside the ticket gate Square Zero Area, from 3:00 p.m.)
• NEW! Jumbo Inari (Wasabi Tuna Mayo): Mameda puts a unique spin on a classic with this jumbo inari sushi filled with tuna mayo and a kick of wasabi mayonnaise. (324 yen, Mameda, B1 Inside the ticket gate Square Zero Area, 100 pieces/day)

Other Delectable Options:

• Wagyu Beef Onigiri Sukiyaki: Indulge in the rich flavors of Wagyu beef simmered in a special warishita sauce, paired with a simmered egg for a truly satisfying onigiri experience. (476 yen, Wagyu no Icchouda, B1 Inside the ticket gate Square Zero Area)
• Risotto Croquette 3-Piece Set: Perfect for sharing or as a souvenir, these crispy risotto croquettes come with three different dipping sauces: tomato, cheese, and beef stew. (891 yen, Kobe Croquette, 1F Inside the ticket gate Central Passage Area)
• Sakamai Onigiri Yamada Nishiki: Experience the unique taste of “sakamai,” the rice used for sake brewing, in this simple yet elegant salt onigiri made with premium Yamada Nishiki rice. (250 yen, Hasegawa Saketen, 1F Inside the ticket gate Central Passage Area – takeout only at the Bar corner)
• NEW! Omusubi Senbei: These bite-sized rice crackers, shaped like adorable onigiri and wrapped in fragrant nori seaweed, are a perfect snack or souvenir. (656 yen, Fujimido, B1 Inside the ticket gate Gin no Suzu Area, limited quantity)

Event Details:

• Dates: October 15th (Tuesday) – November 17th (Sunday), 2024
• Locations: GranSta Tokyo and GranSta Marunouchi within Tokyo Station. (GranSta Tokyo Location Info, GranSta Marunouchi Location Info)
• Hours: Follows facility hours.

Contents subject to change. Images are for illustrative purposes. Prices include tax. For the latest information, please check the official event website.

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My Melody vs. Kuromi: The Ultimate Afternoon Tea Showdown! 💖😈

Get ready, Sanrio fans! From October 5th to December 9th, Tokyo is transforming into an adorable battleground of cuteness, as My Melody and Kuromi face off in the most delightful way possible: themed afternoon teas! Two locations, two distinct experiences – which side will you choose?

Embrace Your Inner Goth with Kuromi at Ginger Garden Aoyama 😈

From October 5th to December 9th, Ginger Garden Aoyama is going full-on goth-cute with the Kuromi Collaboration Afternoon Tea. Imagine indulging in a decadent spread of mauve-purple treats, all while surrounded by Kuromi’s mischievous charm.

Here’s what awaits you:

Sweets:

• Kuromi Mousse Cake: Caramel Banana flavored
• Teddy Ginger-kun: Milk Chocolate
• Purple Flower: Coconut and Orange Flower Cake
• Heart Mousse Cake: Mûre and Berry flavored
• Kuromi Saint-Honoré: Violet and Cassis

Savory Bites:

• Shrimp Cutlet Waffle Sandwich with Pickled Shallot Tartar
• Bacon and Cheese Scone
• Corn Soup with Purple Sweet Potato Cream
• Roast Beef with Purple Cabbage Rapé

Pricing:

• Afternoon Tea: ¥6,000 (tax included)
• With Original Coaster & Kuromi Drink: ¥7,000 (tax included)
• With Kuromi & Teddy Ginger Parfait: ¥7,000 (tax included)
• With Parfait, Coaster & Drink: ¥8,000 (tax included)

Pretty in Pink with My Melody at MOSKA by Ginger Garden 💖

Prefer a classic, girly vibe? Then head over to MOSKA by Ginger Garden from October 5th to December 8th for the My Melody Collaboration Afternoon Tea. This pastel-pink paradise is overflowing with sweetness, just like My Melody herself.

Prepare for a delightful menu:

Sweets:

• My Melody Mousse Cake: Vanilla flavored
• Heart Macaron: Apricot and Cheese flavored
• Flower Cake: Strawberry flavored
• Pink Berry Saint-Honoré: White Chocolate and Berry

Savory Bites:

• Ham Cutlet Waffle Sandwich
• Fresh Vegetable Bagna Cauda
• Beet Potage
• Bacon and Zucchini Gratin

Pricing:

• Afternoon Tea: ¥6,000 (tax included)
• With Original Coaster & My Melody Drink: ¥7,000 (tax included)
• With My Melody & Teddy Ginger Parfait: ¥7,000 (tax included)
• With Parfait, Coaster & Drink: ¥8,000 (tax included)

Exclusive Takeout Drinks: Sip on Sweetness To-Go! 🥤

Can’t stay for a full afternoon tea? No problem! Both locations offer special takeout drinks featuring adorable original illustrations of Kuromi, My Melody, and Teddy Ginger-kun. Each drink even comes with a collectible straw tag featuring a sleepy My Melody or Kuromi.

• Ginger Garden (Kuromi): Sleepy Kuromi Organic Lavender Lemonade with Coaster – ¥1,000 (tax included)
• MOSKA by Ginger Garden (My Melody): Sleepy My Melody Organic Fruit Tea with Coaster – ¥1,000 (tax included)

Event Details & Reservations:

Location & Access:

• Ginger Garden AOYAMA: Click here for map (Omotesando Station)
• MOSKA by gingergarden: Click here for map (Omotesando Station)

Dates:

• Kuromi Afternoon Tea (Ginger Garden AOYAMA): October 5th (Sat) – December 9th (Mon), 2024
• My Melody Afternoon Tea (MOSKA by gingergarden): October 5th (Sat) – December 8th (Sun), 2024

Reservations:

• Kuromi Afternoon Tea: Reserve your table here
• My Melody Afternoon Tea: Reserve your table here

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Please note that menu items and event details are subject to change. Check the official websites for the most up-to-date information.

Celebrate Shibuya Sky’s 5th Anniversary!

Elevate Your Senses with a Month of Special Events

Get ready to celebrate five years of Shibuya Sky with a month of special events designed to ignite your senses and expand your horizons! From a Supermoon celebration to rooftop movies and an immersive exhibition, there’s something for everyone.

Rooftop Super Moon Night (October 17th)

Experience the magic of this year’s closest Supermoon from the rooftop observation space, SKY STAGE. Enjoy an evening of special events under the lunar glow.

• Location: Cosmo Planetarium Shibuya, SHIBUYA SKY Rooftop (SKY STAGE)
• Ticket Price: ¥3,000 (tax included)

Bonus: Snag a limited-availability ticket with benefits for the "MUSIC: Moon World Quartet – ermhoi with her Chamber Music -" live performance. This special ticket is just ¥3,500 (tax included).

Also enjoy special screenings of:

• ‘The Extraordinary Voyage’ (2012, France, 63 minutes)
• ‘A Trip to the Moon’ (1902, France, 15 minutes) – the world’s oldest science fiction film!

Rooftop Movie Screenings: "Imagining Space"

Let your imagination soar with open-air rooftop movie screenings exploring the wonders of space. This four-night event, in partnership with the 38th Image Forum Festival, presents a unique cinematic experience 229m above Shibuya. Enjoy these captivating films with high-quality audio under the vast expanse of the sky.

Featured Films:

• ‘Gravity’ (2013, USA, 91 minutes)
• ‘Powers of Ten’ (1977, USA, 9 minutes)
• ‘Rhizome’ (2015, France, 11 minutes)
• ‘Downside Up’ (1984, UK, 16 minutes)
• ‘Heliography’ (1979, Japan, 5 minutes)
• ‘ETERNITY’ (2022, Japan, 21 minutes)
• ‘Last and First Men’ (2020, Iceland, 71 minutes)

Sky, Various. 5th Anniversary Exhibition (October 3rd – November 3rd)

Discover the kaleidoscope of colors that paint the sky and reflect the diverse spectrum of human emotions. This special exhibition showcases stunning sky photographs captured by Shibuya Sky visitors, interwoven with personal reflections from annual passport holders. Explore the memories and moments that have shaped Shibuya Sky over the past five years and find your own connection to this breathtaking space.

• Dates: October 3rd (Thursday) – November 3rd (Sunday)
• Time: 10:00 – 22:30 daily
• Location: Indoor Observation Corridor SKY GALLERY

Limited Edition Goods and Drinks

Commemorate Shibuya Sky’s 5th anniversary with exclusive merchandise and treats featuring vibrant sky-inspired designs, available starting October 3rd.

Event Details and More:

For complete event details and the latest updates, be sure to visit the official Shibuya Sky website.

Shibuya Sky Information:

• Venue: SHIBUYA SKY
• Nearest Station: Shibuya Station
• Address: 〒150-0002 Tokyo, Shibuya-ku, Shibuya 2-24-12 (14th, 45th, 46th floors, and Rooftop)
• Google Maps
• General Event Dates: October 3rd, 2024 (Thursday) – November 3rd, 2024 (Sunday/Holiday) Individual event dates may vary, so please check the official website.
• Website: SHIBUYA SKY

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

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One Hundred Aspects of the Moon × Hyakudan Kaidan: A Five-Sense Moon Journey

Experience the Magic of the Moon at Hotel Gajoen Tokyo

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of the moon, where art and history intertwine. Hotel Gajoen Tokyo invites you to a unique exhibition, "One Hundred Aspects of the Moon × Hyakudan Kaidan: A Five-Sense Moon Journey," held within the breathtaking "Hyakudan Kaidan" (Hundred Steps Staircase), a designated tangible cultural property.

This captivating exhibition features 20 mesmerizing pieces from Tsukioka Yoshitoshi’s "One Hundred Aspects of the Moon" series. Yoshitoshi, a renowned ukiyo-e artist from the late Edo and Meiji periods, masterfully captured various lunar motifs. The exhibition is presented in two parts, showcasing a curated selection of Yoshitoshi’s works alongside contemporary moon-themed art. Prepare to be transported as moons from the past and present illuminate this historical setting, creating a truly immersive experience.

Three Reasons to Visit

1. Rediscover Tsukioka Yoshitoshi’s Masterpieces: Admire 20 captivating prints from "One Hundred Aspects of the Moon," a series that continues to captivate audiences today. Displayed within the "Kiyokata Room," adorned with paintings by Kaburagi Kiyokata, a student of Yoshitoshi’s lineage, this exhibition offers a unique opportunity to experience Yoshitoshi’s art in a new light.

2. Moon Viewing in a Cultural Heritage Building: Experience the magic of autumnal moonscapes within each room of the Hyakudan Kaidan. From projection mapping onto a 2-meter diameter full moon to spaces inspired by ukiyo-e scenes, each room provides a unique and immersive moon-viewing experience. The combination of wooden architecture and ethereal moonlight creates an unforgettable atmosphere.

3. Contemporary Lunar Visions: Discover the mystical allure of moon-themed works by contemporary artists from Japan and around the world. Expressed through diverse mediums like Japanese paper, glass, and traditional painting, these works offer a modern interpretation of "One Hundred Aspects of the Moon," showcasing each artist’s unique perspective.

Ticket Options & Exclusive Benefits

Online-Only Admission Tickets (Limited Quantity):

• Ticket with Exclusive Goods: ¥3,200 (tax included). Receive a special "Foil Cobal Full Moon" plate, featuring the moon’s phases in elegant gold leaf on a matte, Japanese paper-style acrylic surface.
• Ticket with Gallery Talk: ¥2,800. Enjoy a guided tour after closing time, complete with a "Hyakudan Kaidan" guidebook and postcard. Date and time specified, limited capacity.
• Night Special Ticket: ¥2,500. Experience the exhibition at your own pace, avoiding the crowds. Ideal for photography enthusiasts. 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM, limited to 20 people per day. Date and time specified, limited capacity.

Special Benefits:

• Advance Ticket Purchase: Receive a "Hyakudan Kaidan" and moon-themed postcard when you purchase advance tickets online (until October 4, 2024).
• Kimono Discount: Visitors wearing kimono receive a discounted admission fee of ¥1,400 (¥200 discount) and a special postcard featuring moon art from within the hotel.

Partnership Discount with Ota Memorial Museum of Art

Enjoy a reciprocal discount with the "Hiroshige Blue" exhibition at the Ota Memorial Museum of Art (October 5 – December 8, 2024).

• At Ota Memorial Museum of Art: Present your "One Hundred Aspects of the Moon" ticket stub or online ticket screen for a discounted entry.
• At Hotel Gajoen Tokyo: Present your "Hiroshige Blue" ticket stub or annual passport for a discounted entry. (Discount applies only to same-day ticket purchases at the venue.)

Guided Tour with Lunch

Enjoy a special guided tour before the exhibition opens, including a preview of moon-themed art from the hotel’s collection, a visit to the "Shunyuuki" Chinese restaurant’s private "Nanpu" room, and a delicious "Shunko Lunch Course."

• Dates: Wednesdays and Fridays, October 9 – November 29, 2024
• Time: 10:10 AM – 1:30 PM (approx.)
• Price: ¥7,200 (tax and service charge included)
• Capacity: 20 people per day. Reservations required.

Event Details

• Venue: Hotel Gajoen Tokyo Cultural Property "Hyakudan Kaidan" (Link)
• Nearest Station: Meguro Station (3-minute walk)
• Address: 1-8-1 Shimo-Meguro, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 〒153-0064 (Map)
• Dates: October 5 – December 1, 2024 (Closed November 5)
• Time: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Last entry 5:30 PM)
• Admission:
  • Same-day: General ¥1,600 / University/High School Students ¥1,000 / Elementary/Junior High School Students ¥800
  • Advance (until October 4): General ¥1,300 / University/High School Students ¥900 / Elementary/Junior High School Students ¥600
  • Preschoolers free. Student ID required.
• Inquiries: Event Planning, 03-5434-3140 (10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
• Official Website: Link

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Become Ken Takakura: A 10th Anniversary Exhibition

Explore the Life and Artistry of a Legendary Actor

This exhibition offers a rare glimpse into the life and career of Ken Takakura, the first film actor to be awarded the Order of Culture. Commemorating the 10th anniversary of his passing on November 10, 2014, the exhibition delves into the world of this iconic figure, often referred to as the last movie star. Through his films, personal belongings, and words, you’ll discover the essence of what Takakura sought throughout his remarkable journey. Trace his path from Goichi Oda, his birth name, to his rise as Ken Takakura, the celebrated actor, and understand the profound impact he had on Japanese cinema and culture.

Exhibition Highlights:

1. Prologue: The Last Movie Star: Revisit the outpouring of grief and remembrance that followed Takakura’s passing, a testament to his enduring legacy. See excerpts from the Yomiuri Shimbun’s November 2014 editions, showcasing the nationwide impact of his death.

2. Carrying the Weight of Ken Takakura: Discover the man behind the legend. Born Goichi Oda on February 16, 1931, in Nakama City, Fukuoka Prefecture, Takakura’s upbringing shaped his character. Learn about his early exposure to American culture, his aspirations to become a trader, and the fateful encounter that led him to a 60-year acting career spanning 205 films.

3. Independence: Explore Takakura’s unwavering dedication to his craft. Witness his bold decision to become independent from Toei Studios, allowing him to choose roles that resonated with him. Understand the challenges and triumphs he faced during this period, including the filming of "Mount Hakkoda" (1977) and the recognition he received for "The Yellow Handkerchief of Happiness" (1977).

4. An Elegant Life is the Best Revenge: Delve into Takakura’s philosophy on life and work. Learn how his experiences filming commercials abroad and the wisdom he gained from Yuya Sakai, chief abbot of Mount Hiei, influenced his decision to star in "Antarctica" (1983), a film that profoundly impacted his perspective.

5. Because I’m Clumsy: Examine the evolution of Takakura’s on-screen persona. See how the image of the strong, silent man shifted to embrace a more vulnerable and relatable side. Explore this transition through his commercial work and his acclaimed performance in "Poppoya" (Railroad Man) (1999).

6. What is an Actor?: Witness Takakura’s continued pursuit of artistic excellence. Learn about his involvement in "Firefly" (2001) and his desire to bridge cultures through film. Discover the impact of "Manhunt" (1976) on Chinese audiences and his collaboration with director Zhang Yimou on "Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles" (2006).

7. A National Treasure of Japan: Reflect on Takakura’s later years and lasting contributions. Understand the impact of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake on him and his determination to continue acting, culminating in his final film, "Dearest" (2012). Celebrate his recognition with the Order of Culture in 2013 and his enduring legacy.

Exhibition Details:

• Location: Yomiuri Shimbun Tokyo Head Office (Otemachi Station / Tokyo Station)
• Address: 1-7-1 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 〒100-8055 MAP
• Venue: Yomiuri Gallery
• Dates: October 3, 2024 – November 28, 2024 (Closed Sundays and public holidays)
• Hours: 10:00 – 19:00 (Saturdays until 17:00. Note: Some content unavailable after 17:00 and on Saturdays.)
• Admission: Free
• Official Website: https://events.yomiuri.co.jp/kt10

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

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