Create Your Perfect Bento Box at Nihombashi Mitsukoshi

Design Your Dream Bento at Nihombashi Mitsukoshi’s Depachika

As summer’s heat fades and the crisp air of autumn arrives, it’s the perfect time to indulge in seasonal flavors and outdoor adventures. For culinary enthusiasts, the depachika (food hall) in the basement of Nihombashi Mitsukoshi Main Store is a must-visit. This autumn, they’re offering a unique, customizable bento box experience, allowing you to curate your ideal meal from a selection of 80 delectable dishes.

From September 25th to October 8th, 2024, choose your four favorite items from a vast array of options provided by 50 popular vendors. With categories ranging from luxurious delicacies to meat, fish, vegetables, rice, and even desserts, you’re sure to find the perfect combination to satisfy your cravings. Say goodbye to unwanted items in pre-made bentos and hello to a personalized culinary masterpiece.

Enjoy your custom bento on the lush rooftop "Nihonbashi Garden" for a delightful lunchtime experience amidst the autumn breeze.

Recommended Bento Combinations:

Buyer Fujisawa has curated five sample bento sets to inspire your culinary creativity:

• Autumn of Appetite! Seasonal Taste Choice (¥2,160):

  • Tsukiji Matsutake: Japanese Chestnut (Minori) and Matsutake Cube (¥432)
  • Furuichian: Grilled Saury and Mushroom Autumn Chirashi (¥540)
  • Tenichi: Oyster and Satsumaimo Tempura Set (¥648)
  • Tsukiji Nagata: Silver Salmon Salt-Grilled (¥540)

• Autumn of Health! Healthy Choice (¥1,836):

  • Käfer Delicatessen: Kale and Prosciutto Salad (¥432)
  • RF1: Plenty of Seafood Delicious Salad (¥540)
  • Nihonbashi Benmatsu Sohonten: Vegetable Nimono (¥540)
  • EVERYSOY: Gluten-Free Soy Cream Puff (¥324)

• Meat, Fish, and Vegetables Balanced Choice (¥1,944):

  • Itohan: Awaji Island Onion Japanese Salad (¥324)
  • Kamosu: Mutsu Bay Scallop Tasting Comparison (¥648)
  • Kameido Masumoto: Kameido Masumoto’s Wagyu Sukiyaki (¥540)
  • Eitaro Sohonpo: Ground Sesame Mochi (¥432)

• Taste of Japan! Japanese Style Choice (¥3,132):

  • Tempura Yamanoue: Seasonal Mini Kakiage Don (¥1,080)
  • Benihashi: Tuna Chirashi (¥648)
  • Tenoji: Domestic Eel Mini Bento (¥1,080)
  • Ginza Wakana: Seasonal Pickles (¥324)

• Cross the Sea! Worldwide Choice (¥1,836):

  • Sitaara Tiara: Mini Chicken Biryani (¥432)
  • Garibaldi: Crab and Ricotta Tomato Sauce Pasta (¥432)
  • Shodoten: Black Vinegar Sauce Shumai (¥540)
  • Käfer: Grilled Sausage Assortment (¥432)

A Glimpse at the 80 Customizable Options:

Buyer Fujisawa highlights a selection of the 80 components available for your custom bento:

• Luxury (¥1,080 each):

  • Kudanshita Sushimasa: Fukiyose Chirashi
  • Tempura Yamanoue: Seasonal Mini Kakiage Don
  • Roasted beef I.T.O.: Rare Cut Tomosankaku Luxurious Tender Roast Beef Pave Style
  • Tenoji: Domestic Eel Mini Bento
  • Kyoto Cuisine Minokichi: Autumn Takiawase
  • Asakusa Imahan: Brand Beef Chuck Roll Beef Sukiyaki

• Main Dish (Rice): From mini-donburi to onigiri:

  • Furuichian: Grilled Saury and Mushroom Autumn Chirashi (¥540)
  • Jiraiya: Beef Tendon and Aonori Tempura Rice Ball/Maitake Tempura Rice Ball (¥432)
  • Uokyu: Kyoto Kasuzuke Mini Bento (Gindara/Silver Salmon) (¥648)
  • Tamokami: Matsutake Mushroom and Earth’s Blessings Autumn Harvest Okowa (¥432)
  • Sharemusubi: Kobore Ikura Rice Ball (¥432)
  • Sushiben: Freshly Killed Conger Eel Luxurious Sushi Bento Mini (¥648)

• Meat Dishes: Featuring beef, chicken, and more: See full list above.

• Fish Dishes: A range of Japanese, Western, and seafood options: See full list above.

Event Details:

• Location: Nihombashi Mitsukoshi Main Store, Main Building Basement 1st Floor Food Collection/Special Venue (Nihombashi Mitsukoshi Main Store)
• Nearest Stations: Mitsukoshimae Station (1-minute walk), Nihonbashi Station (5-minute walk), Shin-Nihombashi Station (7-minute walk), Tokyo Station (10-minute walk)
• Address: 1-4-1 Nihonbashi Muromachi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-8001 (Map)
• Dates: September 25th (Wednesday) – October 8th (Tuesday), 2024
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Official Website: https://www.mistore.jp/shopping/feature/foods%5Ff2/mg%5Fbento%5Ff.html

Important Notes:

• Product availability may vary.
• All prices include tax.
• Product information is subject to change without notice. Please check the official website for the latest details.
• Business days, hours, and scheduled events are subject to change.

Discover Uniquely Shibuya Souvenirs: The "SHIBUYA KAWAII OMIYAGE" Campaign

Calling all inbound tourists! Get ready to experience the ultimate souvenir hunt at the heart of Tokyo’s trendsetting district. SHIBUYA109 and MAGNET by SHIBUYA109 are thrilled to announce the "SHIBUYA KAWAII OMIYAGE" campaign, designed to celebrate the joy of Japanese souvenirs.

With inbound tourism booming and Shibuya topping the charts as the #1 destination for visitors (a whopping 67.1%!), this campaign promises a vibrant fusion of Japanese culture, Shibuya’s iconic "gal" fashion, and irresistible cuteness.

Here’s what awaits you:

Exclusive Souvenir Collection:

• 26 popular brands across both facilities will offer pre-sale access to limited-edition souvenirs. Discover items infused with traditional Japanese aesthetics, trendy Shibuya style, and adorable designs.
• Bonus Gifts:
  • Receive a complimentary original crossbody shopper (2 designs available) adorned with the kanji character "愛" (love) – a favorite among international visitors – with every purchase of eligible souvenir items.
  • Spend over ¥1,000 (tax included) in a single transaction and receive a free "SHIBUYA KAWAII OMIYAGE" sticker!

Campaign Dates & Locations:

• Sales Period: September 17th (Tuesday) onwards
• Locations:
  • SHIBUYA109 Shibuya
  • MAGNET by SHIBUYA109
• Participating Stores:
  • SHIBUYA109 Shibuya: MITSUMARU ems excite (B1F), MITSUMARU RIN (1F), SAMANTHAVEGA (1F), LUNA EARTH (2F), MOUSSY (2F), EMODA (2F), FREE’S MART (2F), MAJESTIC LEGON (3F), GALET’S (3F), F i.n.t (4F), MURUA (5F), FIG&VIPER (5F), EGOIST (5F), SPIRALGIRL (5F), jouetie (5F), LAFARY (6F), one way (6F), MA*RS (6F), SPIGA (6F), Ank Rouge (6F), VOLCAN&APHRODITE (7F), ROJITA (7F), #C-pla+ (8F)
  • MAGNET by SHIBUYA109: DANS TOKYO (3F), A’GEM/9 (4F), TRAVAS TOKYO (4F)
• Exhibition:
  • Dates: September 17th (Tuesday) – October 6th (Sunday)
  • Locations:
    • SHIBUYA109 Shibuya: 2F COCO SPOT
    • MAGNET by SHIBUYA109: 1F near the main entrance

Immersive Visual Experience:

• Don’t miss the eye-catching "SHIBUYA KAWAII OMIYAGE" campaign visuals displayed throughout both facilities.
• Catch the campaign video on the large signage at SHIBUYA109 Shibuya’s entrance, street visions around Shibuya Scramble Crossing, and the entrance signage of MAGNET by SHIBUYA109.

Special Photo Opportunity:

• Strike a pose with the limited-time "big monument" celebrating the campaign, located at the 1st-floor storefront event space of SHIBUYA109 Shibuya.
• Dates: September 21st (Saturday) – September 23rd (Monday, holiday)
• Location: SHIBUYA109 Shibuya, 1F storefront event space "COCO SPACE"

Don’t miss this chance to discover the most adorable and unique souvenirs Shibuya has to offer!

Important Information:

• Please note that product availability is limited, and gifts will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
• For the latest updates and detailed information, please visit the official website: https://www.shibuya109.jp/blog/?pi3=342428

Basic Information:

• Venues & Access:
  • SHIBUYA109 Shibuya: Shibuya Station
  • MAGNET by SHIBUYA109: Shibuya Station
• Event Period: September 17th, 2024 (Tuesday) – October 6th, 2024 (Sunday)
• Hours: Subject to the operating hours of each facility.

Please note: Event details are subject to change. We recommend checking the official website or contacting the venues directly for the most up-to-date information.

Craft Beer Holiday 2024: A Toast to Autumn in Osaka

Craft Beer Holiday, a renowned festival celebrating the artistry of craft brewing, returns for its 8th edition! From October 11th to 14th, 2024, JR Osaka-jo Koen Station Square will transform into a vibrant hub for beer enthusiasts, showcasing a diverse range of breweries from across Japan.

This year’s event promises an impressive selection of craft beers from top breweries spanning the entire country, from the northernmost island of Hokkaido to the southern reaches of Okinawa. Complementing the exceptional brews will be a variety of gourmet food stalls offering delectable pairings to enhance your tasting experience.

Craft Beer Holiday caters to all tastes, offering non-alcoholic mocktails alongside its extensive beer selection. Whether you’re attending with family, friends, or solo, the festival provides a welcoming atmosphere for everyone to enjoy. Join us under the crisp autumn sky as we raise a glass at Beer Holi!

Participating Breweries (In alphabetical order)

• Bighand Bros. Beer (Kyoto)
• CRAFT BANK (Kyoto)
• DD4D BREWING (Ehime)
• Daisen G Beer (Tottori)
• Eagle Brewery (Hyogo)
• FUKUOKA CRAFT BREWING (Fukuoka)
• Golden Rabbit Beer (Nara)
• HINO BREWING.co (Shiga)
• ISLAND BREWERY (Nagasaki)
• Ise Kadoya Beer (Mie)
• KOBO Brewery (Toyama)
• MAHOWBREW (Okinawa)
• Matsue Beer Heron (Shimane)
• Minami Shinshu Beer (Nagano)
• Minoh Beer (Osaka)
• North Island Beer (Hokkaido)
• Shiga Kogen Beer (Nagano)
• Twin Peaks Mountain Brewing (Ibaraki)
• Ushitora Brewery (Tochigi)
• Yaho Brewing (Nagano)

Event Details

Dates: October 11th (Friday) – 14th (Monday/Holiday), 2024

Note: The event will proceed rain or shine but may be canceled in case of severe weather.

Opening Hours:

• Friday, October 11th: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Saturday, October 12th: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Sunday, October 13th: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Monday, October 14th (Holiday): 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Venue: JR Osaka-jo Koen Station Square (3 Osakajo, Chuo-ku, Osaka City). The venue is directly accessible from the JR Osaka-jo Koen Station ticket gates.

Entrance Fee:

• Advance Sale: 4,400 yen (includes 6 food and drink tickets + original glass)
• Same Day: 4,600 yen (includes 6 food and drink tickets + original glass)
• Food and Drink Tickets (Same Day Only): 1,700 yen (set of 3 tickets)

Important Notes:

• An original glass is required for drinking beer.
• Original glasses are sold separately for 1,500 yen.
• Original glasses from previous Beer Holi events can be used.
• A limited number of past glasses will be available for resale.

Contact Information:

Craft Beer Holiday Office (YTE)
Phone: 06-4791-3613 (Weekdays 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)

Website: http://beerholiday.jp/

3rd Mizuto Kurawanka Fireworks Festival: A Dazzling Spectacle on September 15th

The 3rd Mizuto Kurawanka Fireworks Festival is set to illuminate the sky above Hirakata and Takatsuki on Sunday, September 15th, 2024. This captivating event, held across two stunning venues along the Yodogawa River, promises a spectacular display of fireworks and a day filled with family-friendly entertainment.

A Celebration of Life and Community

The Mizuto Kurawanka Fireworks Festival is unique in its dedication to celebrating new life. The number of fireworks launched traditionally corresponds to the number of children born in Hirakata and Takatsuki in the preceding fiscal year. This year, Katano City joins the celebration, further amplifying the spectacle with a total of 5,087 fireworks set to paint the night sky.

Experience the Fireworks Up Close

Prepare to be mesmerized as the fireworks are launched in close proximity to the viewing areas, creating an immersive and breathtaking experience. The vibrant colors and intricate patterns will feel as if they are showering down upon you, leaving a lasting impression.

A Day of Festivities

The excitement begins long before the fireworks ignite. Starting at 12:00 PM, both venues will come alive with a variety of activities and attractions to entertain visitors of all ages.

Hirakata Venue:

• Corporate PR Booths (Children’s Festival): Engage in fun activities and learn more about local businesses.
• Suito Music Festival (Music Stage): Enjoy live music performances throughout the day.
• Kitchen Cars and Food Booths: Indulge in a diverse selection of delicious food and refreshing drinks.

Takatsuki Venue:

• Suito Music Festival (Music Stage): Groove to the rhythm of live music performances.
• Kitchen Cars and Food Booths: Discover culinary delights from various vendors.

Event Details:

• Date: Sunday, September 15th, 2024
• Time:
  • Festivities begin at 12:00 PM.
  • Fireworks launch at 7:30 PM.
  • Event concludes at 8:00 PM.
• Venues:
  • Hirakata Venue: Yodogawa River Park Hirakata Area
  • Takatsuki Venue: Yodogawa River Park Otsuka Area
• Admission: Free
• Sponsored/Paid Seating: Available for purchase. Click here to apply.
• Weather: Held rain or shine. Canceled only in case of severe weather conditions.
• Contact: 072-845-6322 (Suito Kurawanka Fireworks Festival)
• Website: https://suito-kurawanka.jp/

Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration of light, sound, and community spirit. Join the festivities at the 3rd Mizuto Kurawanka Fireworks Festival and create lasting memories under a dazzling sky.

TV Osaka YATAI Festival 2024: A Culinary and Entertainment Extravaganza at Osaka Castle

The TV Osaka YATAI Festival, Kansai’s largest gourmet and entertainment festival, returns for its 10th anniversary from Friday, September 13th to Monday, September 16th, 2024. Supported by Suntory Draft Beer, this year’s event promises an even more spectacular showcase of delicious food and exciting entertainment against the stunning backdrop of Osaka Castle.

A Foodie Paradise with 60+ Vendors

Prepare your taste buds for a culinary journey across Japan and beyond with over 60 vendors offering a diverse range of mouthwatering dishes.

Highlights include:

• Returning Champion: Kinjishi Meat Shop’s "Hokkaido Beef Meat Sushi Tasting", a three-time winner of the prestigious "Y-1 Grand Prix".
• Hokkaido Delights: Sapporo Ramen Musashi’s famous "Rich Browned Butter Corn Miso Ramen".
• Kyushu Flavors: Tanaka Fresh Fish Store’s "Sea Urchin and Salmon Roe Bowl", alongside Hakata specialties like "Torikawa" (grilled chicken skin) and "Motsunabe" (hot pot with offal).
• Kansai Classics: Indulge in Osaka’s soul food with Charai Goku’s "Nishinari Hormone Charai" (stir-fried offal), Chibo’s iconic "Buta-Tama" (okonomiyaki with pork and egg), and Fuunji Nihon’s "Famous Nikukasu Udon" (udon noodles with beef tendon).
• International Flavors: Explore global cuisines with Kuntep Dotombori’s "Pad Thai" and "Gai Yang" (BBQ Chicken), PHO34’s authentic "Pho", Wangfujing’s "Authentic Sho-ron-po" (soup dumplings), and French Shokudo Aotori’s "Souffle Omelette Rice".

Entertainment Galore

Beyond the culinary delights, the festival offers a vibrant entertainment program featuring:

• Daily Stage Performances: Enjoy a variety of performances with special guests throughout the event.
• Karaoke Contests: Unleash your inner singing star and compete for prizes.
• Golf Trial Corner: Test your swing and improve your golfing skills.
• MOROK Experiences: Immerse yourself in interactive experiences.

Event Details

Dates: Friday, September 13th – Monday, September 16th, 2024
Time: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Last day until 6:00 PM)
Location: Osaka Castle Park, Sun Plaza (3 Osakajo, Chuo-ku, Osaka City)
Admission: Free (Food and drinks are charged separately)
Contact: 06-6947-1912 / [email protected]
Website: https://www.tv-osaka.co.jp/tvofes/

Don’t miss this opportunity to eat, drink, and be entertained at the TV Osaka YATAI Festival 2024!

Osaka Castle Festival 2024: A Celebration of Japanese History

Explore the History of Japan’s Castles

This summer, history buffs and castle enthusiasts will gather once again at the Osaka Castle Festival 2024. Held from August 10th to 12th at the Knowledge Capital Congre Convention Center in Grand Front Osaka, this event offers a deep dive into the fascinating world of Japanese castles.

Discover Castles from Across Japan

The festival features approximately 70 booths representing castles from all corners of Japan. Each booth provides information and insights into the unique history and architectural features of the castles they represent. This year’s special exhibition will shine a spotlight on the magnificent Kishiwada Castle.

Engaging Seminars and Forums

For those seeking a deeper understanding, the festival offers a series of seminars and forums led by experts in castle history and architecture. These paid sessions will cover a range of captivating topics, including:

• Castles Surrounding Osaka Castle
• The Role of Early Modern Amagasaki Castle and the Amagasaki Domain
• Castles of Nobunaga, Hideyoshi, and Ieyasu
• Rereading Himeji Castle

Intricate Wooden Castle Models

Marvel at the detail of 1/150 scale wooden models of famous Japanese castles, including Edo Castle, Osaka Castle, Nagoya Castle, and Hikone Castle. These impressive models, created in collaboration with renowned wooden model manufacturer Woody Joe Co., Ltd., showcase the intricate craftsmanship of these historical structures.

Event Details:

• Dates: August 10th (Saturday) – August 12th (Monday/Holiday), 2024
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Location: Knowledge Capital Congre Convention Center, B2F, North Building, Grand Front Osaka (3-1 Ofukacho, Kita-ku, Osaka City)
• Admission:
  • On-site: Adults – 1,600 yen, Junior High & High School Students – 1,000 yen
  • Advance Purchase: Adults – 1,400 yen, Junior High & High School Students – 800 yen
  • Elementary school students and younger are free when accompanied by a guardian.
• Contact: 06-6947-1912 (10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays)
• Website: https://www.tv-osaka.co.jp/event/shirofes/

Don’t miss this opportunity to delve into the rich history of Japanese castles at the Osaka Castle Festival 2024!

Autumn Picnic at the Petit Boulangerie: A Delightful Bread-centric Afternoon Tea at Hilton Tokyo

Indulge in a unique autumnal experience at the Hilton Tokyo with the "Autumn Picnic Petit Boulangerie" afternoon tea set. This special offering features a delectable array of bread-based treats, elegantly presented in a charming wooden box reminiscent of a cozy autumn picnic.

Event Details:

• Dates: September 10th, 2024 (Tuesday) – End date to be determined
• Location: Petit Boulangerie, Hilton Tokyo (Nishi-Shinjuku Station, Shinjuku Gourmet area)

A Bread Lover’s Dream

This isn’t your typical afternoon tea. Instead of the usual scones and finger sandwiches, the "Autumn Picnic Petit Boulangerie" puts the spotlight on artisanal breads. The star of the show is the assortment of freshly baked breads, crafted with seasonal ingredients and flavors that capture the essence of autumn.

Imagine savoring miniature pumpkin rolls, crusty rye bread topped with fig jam, and delicate brioche buns filled with spiced apple compote. Each bite is a celebration of the season’s bounty.

A Feast for the Eyes and the Palate

The presentation of the afternoon tea is as delightful as the food itself. The breads and accompanying treats are artfully arranged in a charming wooden box, designed to evoke the feeling of a leisurely autumn picnic. The box is filled with colorful fall foliage and other decorative elements that enhance the overall experience.

Beyond Bread: Sweet and Savory Delights

While bread takes center stage, the "Autumn Picnic Petit Boulangerie" also features a selection of sweet and savory accompaniments to complement the bread selection. Guests can enjoy a variety of pastries, such as mini fruit tarts and chocolate éclairs, as well as savory bites like quiche and mini sandwiches.

A Perfect Autumn Escape

Whether you’re a bread enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and memorable afternoon tea experience, the "Autumn Picnic Petit Boulangerie" at Hilton Tokyo is sure to delight. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the arrival of autumn in style.

Stay tuned for updates on the end date and pricing details for this special event. It is highly recommended to make reservations in advance, especially as the event gains popularity.

3rd Hanshin Donburi Festival (August 14th – 19th): A Culinary Journey Across Japan This Summer

Calling all Donburi enthusiasts! The highly anticipated "Hanshin Donburi Festival" returns for its third installment, and this time, it’s bringing the heat – of deliciousness, that is! For the first time ever, the festival will be held during the summer, offering a unique opportunity to experience a culinary journey across Japan without leaving Osaka.

A Celebration of Regional Flavors:

Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of flavors as nine renowned restaurants from across Japan converge at the Hanshin Umeda Main Store. Each establishment will showcase their signature Donburi creations, highlighting the diverse regional specialties and culinary traditions of their respective areas.

A Donburi Expert’s Seal of Approval:

This year’s festival is extra special with Don Ito, the esteemed representative of the National Donburi Association, serving as the event’s presenter. His presence underscores the festival’s commitment to showcasing authentic and high-quality Donburi.

The Essence of Deliciousness: A Focus on Rice:

The festival will also shine a spotlight on the unsung hero of every Donburi bowl: the rice. Five participating restaurants will demonstrate their dedication to using premium rice varieties and meticulous cooking methods to elevate the overall Donburi experience.

A Summer Festival Vibe:

Escape the summer heat and step into the cool and comfortable venue at the Hanshin Umeda Main Store. Enhance your Donburi experience with refreshing green tea beverages, perfectly complementing the savory flavors of your meal.

Event Details:

• Dates: August 14th (Wednesday) – August 19th (Monday), 2024
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Location: Hanshin Umeda Main Store 1F Shokusai Terrace (1-13-13 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka)
• Admission: Free
• Website: Hanshin Department Store Official Website

Don’t miss this chance to embark on a delectable adventure through the world of Japanese Donburi. Mark your calendars and prepare for a truly unforgettable culinary experience at the 3rd Hanshin Donburi Festival!