Christmas Rose in Bloom: A Year in Panels

For those interested in cultivating Helleborus, commonly known as the Christmas Rose, an informative panel exhibition will be held at the Todagawa Ryokuchi Flower Center, located within the larger Agricultural Culture Park. The exhibition, presented by prominent Hellebore enthusiast Ms. Kaoru Aoshima, promises to deliver valuable insights into the "methods to keep Hellebores healthy and blooming profusely".

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Duration:

The exhibition will run from January 21st (Tuesday), 2025, to March 2nd (Sunday), 2025. Please note that the Flower Center is closed every Monday. In the event that a Monday falls on a national holiday, the Center will remain closed on the following weekday.

Opening Hours:

Visitors are welcome between the hours of 9:00 and 16:30.

Location:

The exhibition will take place at the Todagawa Ryokuchi Flower Center, a part of the Agricultural Culture Park in Nagoya, Japan.

Admission:

Admission to the panel exhibition is free of charge.

Contact Information:

For inquiries, please contact the Todagawa Ryokuchi Management Center at TEL: 052-302-5321. Please note that English language inquiries are not accepted at this number.

What are Christmas Roses (Hellebores)?

Christmas Roses, or Helleborus niger, are perennial plants known for blooming in winter, around Christmas. They belong to the Ranunculaceae family and originate from the mountainous regions of Europe, especially the Alps.

These plants are valued for their cup-shaped flowers, which vary in color from white to soft pink, sometimes with a green tint. Their dark green foliage remains attractive year-round, enhancing any garden.

Christmas Roses are resilient, thriving in shaded or partially shaded areas with well-drained, humus-rich soil. They can withstand cold temperatures and snow, making them a preferred choice for adding color to winter gardens.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Hellebores have historical and cultural significance. They have been used in traditional medicine and are linked to various myths and legends. Today, they continue to attract gardeners and plant enthusiasts with their unique charm and durability, making them a popular choice for winter gardens and floral displays.

The 49th Japan Hobby Show 2025: A Deep Dive into the World of Handmade Hobbies

Discover Your Passion: The 2025 Japan Hobby Show at Tokyo Big Sight

The 49th Japan Hobby Show, a celebration of all things handmade, is set to take place at the renowned Tokyo Big Sight (Tokyo International Exhibition Center) from April 17th to April 19th, 2025. This year’s theme, "HANDMADE Journey 2 ~ Pack your ‘likes’ for the trip ~", invites attendees on a three-day exploration to discover, or perhaps rediscover, their passions. The Japan Hobby Show offers a unique opportunity to encounter a vast array of handmade creations and the talented individuals behind them.

Immerse Yourself in Over 250 Workshops

A major highlight of the Japan Hobby Show is the extensive workshop program, featuring over 250 diverse sessions. These workshops cater to a wide range of interests, including needlework, DIY projects, various crafts, and art. Whether you are a novice or a seasoned crafter, there is something for everyone. The workshops are led by popular creators and established brands, ensuring a high-quality, engaging experience. Due to their popularity, advance ticket purchase is strongly recommended. Keep an eye on the official website and social media channels for updates on ticket sales.

Explore Themed Areas and Discover New Inspirations

The exhibition area is a treasure trove of handmade works, materials, and tools. Visitors can explore booths filled with unique creations, each reflecting the individual style and preferences of its maker. This is an excellent opportunity to gather new ideas and find inspiration for your own projects.

The exhibition is thoughtfully divided into several themed areas:

• ARENA: The main area, designed to reflect the overarching theme of the event, promises an exciting and immersive experience.
• WORLD: This area offers a deep dive into specific categories, allowing visitors to explore their interests in greater detail.
• General Workshop Area: A perennial favorite, this area hosts a variety of workshops catering to different skill levels.
• Limited Rooms: This section features exclusive content and experiences, adding an element of surprise and discovery to the event.
• Oshikatsu/Nui-katsu Marche: A brand-new addition for 2025, this area is dedicated to the increasingly popular "Oshikatsu" (fan activity) and "Nui-katsu" (plushie activities) trends.

The Rise of "Oshikatsu": A Dedicated Space for Fans

The "Oshikatsu" phenomenon, which involves passionately supporting one’s favorite things or people, has become a significant cultural force in Japan. With the market size projected to reach a staggering 800 billion yen in 2025, and an estimated one in three people identifying with an "Oshi," it is clear that "Oshikatsu" is more than just a passing trend.

Recognizing this, the 49th Japan Hobby Show introduces the "Oshikatsu/Nui-katsu Marche," a dedicated area where fans can find materials, finished works, and experiences related to their "Oshi." This includes items related to resin crafting, embroidery, beading, character-themed merchandise, and plushie-related activities.

Learn from the Best: Influencers Share Their Expertise

Approximately 20 prominent influencers in the handmade and hobby sphere are scheduled to participate in the 2025 Japan Hobby Show. These influencers will share their knowledge, techniques, and passion for handmade crafts through various platforms, including social media. This presents a valuable opportunity to learn directly from leading figures in the field and gain insights into their creative processes. Many of these influencers will also be conducting workshops, providing hands-on learning experiences for attendees.

Essential Information for Planning Your Visit

• Dates: April 17th (Thursday) – April 19th (Saturday), 2025
• Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Admission times may vary depending on the ticket type)
• Location: Tokyo Big Sight, South Exhibition Hall South 1, 2, and 3 Halls
• Address: 3-11-1 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo, 135-0063 (MAP)
• Nearest Stations: Tokyo Big Sight Station / Kokusai-Tenjijo Station
• Official Website: https://hobby.or.jp/

Please note that the information provided is subject to change. It is recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date details.

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What is Tokyo Big Sight?

Tokyo Big Sight, officially the Tokyo International Exhibition Center, is Japan’s largest convention and exhibition venue, situated in the Ariake district of Tokyo. Known for its distinctive inverted pyramid architecture, it hosts a variety of events, including trade shows, conventions, cultural exhibitions, and hobby fairs. The center features multiple exhibition halls, conference rooms, and adaptable event spaces, making it suitable for large gatherings. With modern facilities and a convenient location, Tokyo Big Sight attracts exhibitors and visitors globally, facilitating international exchange and collaboration.

Sport Fishing Festival in TOKYO 2025

A Biennial Celebration of Jigging and Casting: 64 Companies to Exhibit

The Sport Fishing Festival in TOKYO 2025 (SFF2025), a specialized event focusing on the techniques of "jigging" and "casting" in saltwater lure fishing, is set to take place on February 15th and 16th, 2025. This biennial festival, distinct from both conventional fishing equipment exhibitions and competitive fishing tournaments, aims to provide a comprehensive and educational experience for dedicated sport fishing enthusiasts. The event will be held at the Tokyo Metropolitan Tama Industrial Exchange Center Tokyo Tama Mirai Messe, conveniently located near Keio Hachioji Station.

SFF2025 is not merely a trade fair; it is an immersive "festival" that inherits the spirit of past jigging festivals, offering attendees a unique opportunity to learn and discover various aspects of sport fishing. A record 64 manufacturers and shops are scheduled to participate, providing an unparalleled platform for interaction with industry professionals. Attendees will have the chance to engage with staff from renowned manufacturers, accomplished professional anglers, and even independent lure builders – individuals who are not typically accessible to the public.

Engaging Talk Shows and Educational Events

A significant highlight of SFF2025 is the series of "talk shows" featuring prominent professional anglers and experts, scheduled for both days of the event. These sessions promise to deliver exclusive insights and information, tailored to specific themes relevant to the sport fishing community.

Main Stage Talk Show Schedule:

Saturday, February 15th

• 13:00-13:30: "Bluefish Jigging" with Seiichi Nagai and Kazuhiro Matsubara
• 14:00-14:30: "Trout (Cherry Salmon, Biwa Trout, Lake Trout) Jigging" with Makoto Ono and Ryuro Yoshizawa
• 15:00-15:30: "Resource Management and Sport Fishing" with Yasuhiro Sanada and Natsumi Takamoto
• 16:00-16:30: "Bluefin Tuna" with Tadakazu Fujii, Ichiro Sato, and Toshiaki Sawada

Sunday, February 16th

• 11:00-11:30: "Big Bait Seabass" with Takashi Ueyashiki, Satoshi Mori, and Naruo Ieda
• 12:00-12:30: "Yellowtail Amberjack" with Toru Yamaguchi, Seiichiro Tashiro, and Saya Aoi
• 13:00-14:00: "Giant Trevally & GT Fishing Contest Awards Ceremony" with Kenzaburo Fukui and Kenji Konishi
• 15:00-15:30: "Resource Management and Sport Fishing" with Yoichi Mogi and Ayumu Katano
• 16:00-16:30: "Yellowfin Tuna" with Hiro Sano and Kazuyoshi Sugio

Beyond the talk shows, SFF2025 will host a variety of engaging and educational events. Attendees can participate in a "Knot Contest," a competition designed to test the strength and reliability of various fishing knots. For those interested in sustainable fishing practices, the "Resource Management Corner" will provide valuable information on international fishing systems and the importance of tag-and-release programs. Additionally, a "Noto Peninsula Earthquake Reconstruction Support Lottery" will be held, offering attendees a chance to contribute to the recovery efforts in the areas affected by the January 2024 earthquake.

Event Details:

• Venue: Tokyo Metropolitan Tama Industrial Exchange Center Tokyo Tama Mirai Messe
• Nearest Station: Keio Hachioji Station
• Address: 3-19-2 Myojin-cho, Hachioji City, Tokyo 192-0046 (MAP)
• Dates: February 15th (Saturday) – February 16th (Sunday), 2025
• Hours:
  • February 15th: Noon – 5:00 PM
  • February 16th: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Admission Fees:
  • 500 yen for attendees who complete a questionnaire
  • 1000 yen for attendees who do not complete a questionnaire
  • Free for high school students and younger
• Official Website: https://www.sfpc-japan.com/

Please note that the published content is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, it is recommended to consult the official website of the venue and the organizers.

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What is Jigging in Fishing?

Jigging is a fishing technique that uses a specific type of lure called a jig. This method involves a vertical, jerking motion to mimic the movements of injured prey, which can attract fish. A jig typically has a weighted head and a hook, often with a soft or feathered body to increase its attractiveness.

This technique is effective in both saltwater and freshwater, making it suitable for catching various species, from bass and walleye to larger fish like tuna and grouper. Anglers can adjust the speed and intensity of the jigging motion to match the behavior of the target fish, providing a flexible approach to fishing.

Successful jigging requires understanding the water column and fish behavior. Anglers must often adjust the depth and rhythm of the jig to suit the conditions, making it both a physically active and strategic method. At the Tokyo Sport Fishing Festival 2025, participants can learn these techniques from experienced professionals, gaining insights into the nuances of jigging and how to apply them effectively in different fishing scenarios.

Large-Scale Valentine’s Day Event at Kitasenju Marui

A Wide Selection of Chocolate Brands, Including Many Debuting at Marui

This Valentine’s Day, Kitasenju Marui is hosting a large-scale event featuring a remarkable selection of chocolate brands. Under the theme of "Encountering new chocolates," the event showcases a total of 21 brands on the 6th floor, along with 8 additional brands on the 2nd floor and B1F. With such a diverse array, visitors are encouraged to make multiple visits throughout the event period to fully appreciate the opportunity to discover new and exciting chocolates.

A Diverse Lineup of Chocolates, Featuring Brands Debuting at Marui

The event features an impressive lineup of chocolate brands, many of which are making their debut at Marui. Here are some of the highlights:

• CACAO SAMPAKA (Marui debut) – A purveyor to the Spanish Royal Family, CACAO SAMPAKA, based in Barcelona, oversees every step of the chocolate-making process, from selecting cacao beans to the final production. They are also actively involved in supporting cacao farms, including efforts to revive rare cacao varieties like "Xoconusco(R)," known as the King’s Cacao, and building schools in Côte d’Ivoire in collaboration with the Ivorian government.
• DelReY (Marui debut) – DelReY’s iconic "Diamond Chocolat" is a must-try. The Diamond BOX, a reflection of 75 years of the brand’s history, contains an assortment of chocolates by father Bernard (yellow line) and son Jan (white line). This collection offers six unique flavors: caramel, exotic fruits, pistachio raspberry, lychee, strawberry, and Venezuela.
• BENOIT NIHANT (Marui debut) – Cacao artisan Benoit Nihant carefully selects cacao from its origin, taking into account the producers’ dedication. This Belgian bean-to-bar chocolate brand specializes in "single origin" chocolate, produced from a single region or farm. Visitors can enjoy chocolates that combine spices and cacao, as well as freshly baked chocolate cookies with a rich flavor, made by wrapping a whole ganache chocolate inside the dough and topping it with single-origin chocolate chips.
• CHOKOLA`J (Marui debut) – CHOKOLA`J offers high-cacao chocolate from New Caledonia. The "Hibiscus Collection" features chocolates rich in cacao flavor, presented in a design box that evokes the gentle tropical breeze and floral scent of the South Pacific. This collection showcases the perfect harmony of French craftsmanship and the finest cacao beans.
• Madame Delluc (Marui debut) – Founded in 1919 by Marie Delluc on Rue Royale in Brussels, Madame Delluc quickly became a favorite among aristocrats and royalty. In 1942, they were first awarded the title of purveyor to the Belgian Royal Family. Their "Mini Melo Cakes," offering a crisp, fluffy, and crunchy texture, are a special treat available only during this season.
• Laurent Gerbaud (Kitasenju Marui debut) – Chocolatier Laurent Gerbaud, from Brussels, Belgium, has absolute confidence in their "praline," made from caramelized nuts. They are constantly pursuing addictive chocolate, with a focus on the quality and blend of raw materials.
• DARCIS (Kitasenju Marui debut) – Jean-Philippe Darcis, a "Lifetime Belgian Chocolate Ambassador" and a member of "Relais Desserts," the world’s most prestigious association of pastry chefs, brings his expertise to this bean-to-bar chocolatier. Visitors can indulge in the luscious world of chocolate he creates.
• OGGI (Kitasenju Marui debut) – Since its founding in 1978, OGGI has pursued its own unique flavor, not bound by the concept of Western confectionery. Based on the principle of "maximizing the power of ingredients," they have created long-selling products such as "Chocolat de Chocolat" and "Orange Peel." A variety of assortments are available to brighten up Valentine’s Day.
• Grand Place (Kitasenju Marui debut) – Grand Place offers Belgian chocolate that is both visually appealing and delicious. Using Belgian couverture and carefully selected ingredients from both domestic and international sources, Japanese chocolatiers finish it semi-handmade to suit Japanese tastes, while inheriting the traditional Belgian chocolate-making method.
• CRIOLLO – Run by French patissier Santos Antoine, CRIOLLO presents this year’s new chocolate set, "Chocolat Infusion." This set of eight unique pieces features a deeper, more natural flavor derived from ingredients infused into cacao butter and fresh cream. Other chocolates with exquisite melt-in-your-mouth texture and delicate flavors are also available.
• KitKat Chocolatory – For a limited time, KitKat Chocolatory is offering a "bear-shaped KitKat" called "KitKat Heartful Bear." These adorable KitKats come in a cute "heart can" type, as well as in packs of 12 and 6, perfect for sharing.
• DEMEL – Located on Kohlmarkt 14, from Michaelerplatz in front of the Vienna Imperial Palace to Graben Street, DEMEL is a café-Konditorei with both a patisserie and a café. Since its founding in 1786, its gorgeous and elegant taste continues to captivate sweet lovers around the world.
• BS40 – BS40 is a sweets specialty store opened by a Japanese owner in Belgium’s fiercely competitive chocolate scene. They offer chocolate with the theme of "fruit and cacao." In addition to the standard products of "orange peel" and "lemon peel" coated in "dark chocolate," this year, a new product coated in "milk chocolate" is making its debut. Visitors can also enjoy the nostalgic "Cherry Bonbons," made by soaking cherries in alcohol before coating them in chocolate.
• Flower Knows × Goncharoff – This collaboration features highly designed packaging loved worldwide, with a design theme of "Moonlight Mermaid." The product combines the beautiful Flower Knows design with motifs of "moon," "mermaid," and "jewels," and Goncharoff’s vibrant chocolates, creating a unique new chocolate brand.
• Meine Loren (Fouche) – The highly popular cat character "mofusand" collaboration package is now available. "Gummy Chocolate" features paw-shaped fruit-flavored chocolate topped with fruit gummies, while "Ramune Chocolate" is fruit-flavored ramune coated in fruit chocolate. The package features a cute design with various cats.
• GODIVA – A luxury chocolate brand representing Belgium, GODIVA offers its standard collection, seasonal collections, and baked goods, providing high-quality and flavorful chocolate products.
• Mary Chocolate – Since its founding, Mary Chocolate has been committed to selecting raw materials and using specific methods to create safe and rich flavors. Their crackling chocolate, inspired by the drinks and sweets found in retro cafes, is a delicious and visually appealing treat.
• LITTLE MOTHERHOUSE – Launched by Motherhouse in 2021, this food brand develops original products that highlight the rich food ingredients and culture of developing countries. "Nama-ouka" offers the sweet and sour taste of strawberries and raspberries, with a refreshing mugwort aroma. "Nama-haruhana" combines the gorgeous scent of osmanthus with the sweet and sourness of passion fruit. "Nama-moegi" harmonizes the refreshing taste of grapefruit with the deep richness of pistachio. This special assortment allows you to experience the arrival of spring with all five senses.
• lepepin – "Le pepin" is French for "seed," and this chocolate boutique in Omotesando, Tokyo, aims to create colorful flavors that bloom from a small seed. Their chocolate is designed to delight the five senses and brighten the heart, whether enjoyed with loved ones or on an ordinary day.
• Morozoff – Born in 1931 as a chocolate shop on Tor Road in Kobe, Morozoff was the first in Japan to create luxury chocolate and has always been committed to authenticity. They have nurtured a culture of enjoying gifts through various sweets, including Valentine’s Day. Many of their hit products have become long-selling items, loved by many people across generations and eras.
• Kyo Yogashi Juvancelle – Juvancelle, an old French word meaning "maiden," offers Japanese-style chocolate with a sense of the four seasons, unique to a Kyoto confectionery shop. Rooted in Kyoto, a city steeped in traditional culture, their carefully crafted chocolates incorporate Japanese ingredients, providing a deep and rich flavor.

Event Details

• Location: Kitasenju Marui
• Nearest Station: Kitasenju Station
• Address: 〒120-8501 Tokyo, Adachi-ku, Senju 3-92 (MAP)
• Venue: Kitasenju Marui 6F, 2F, B1F Valentine’s Day Special Corner
• Event Period: January 29, 2025 (Wednesday) – February 14, 2025 (Friday)
• Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Official Website: https://www.0101.co.jp/084/feature/detail.html?article%5Fseq=11242&article%5Ftype=fea

Please note that the published content may be subject to change. For the latest information, please check the official website of the venue or organizer.

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What is Kitasenju Marui?

Kitasenju Marui is a shopping center located in the Kitasenju district of Tokyo, Japan. It is part of the Marui Group, a chain of department stores in Japan. The store is known for its modern design and welcoming atmosphere, attracting both locals and tourists.

Kitasenju Marui offers a variety of products, including fashion, accessories, home goods, and electronics. It is noted for its selection of trendy and high-quality brands, often featuring exclusive items. The store also hosts seasonal events, such as the Valentine’s Day Chocolate Fair, which features chocolates from local and international chocolatiers.

In addition to shopping, Kitasenju Marui has a range of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Its location, accessible by public transportation, makes it a convenient spot for shopping in Tokyo.