Chacha’s Tea – A Tour of Tea Places

The interplay of flavors present in a cup of tea, ranging from bitter to sweet, can be a profound experience — a life without tea would be missing one of its most interesting aspects.

The main types of Japanese tea; matcha, sencha, bancha and gyokuro, all share a brown and playful color. They are also a deeply ingrained part of Japanese culture, as exemplified by the ancient proverb "Morning tea wards off the day’s troubles." Originally a custom of the upper class, tea drinking spread to the common people during the Edo period. This was a time of increased development of infrastructure and economic activity throughout Japan, which allowed for tea cultivation to expand nationwide.

Tea has fascinated everyone, from commoners to the shogun, soothing the mind and body, creating social occasions, and nurturing people’s sensibilities.

This exhibition traces tea-related culture, such as tea-producing areas and teahouses along the Tokaido, famous sweets of the highway, signboard girls, and the tea color popularized by kabuki actors, alongside the works of Utagawa Hiroshige.

Why not join us for tea time, indulging in its rich aroma and beautiful water color?

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Dates: February 13 (Thurs), 2025 – May 11 (Sun/Holiday), 2025

Closed on: National Holidays (February 23, March 20, April 29, May 3-5)

Hours: 9:00-16:00 (Last entry at 15:30)

Venue: Mitsubishi UFJ Bank Currency Museum and Ukiyo-e Museum

Fee: Free

Contact: Mitsubishi UFJ Bank Currency Museum and Ukiyo-e Museum

TEL: 052-300-8686 (English inquiries not accepted)

Website URL: https://www.bk.mufg.jp/currency_museum/index.html

Access: A brief, five-minute walk from either Exit 3 of Fushimi Subway Station, or Exit 8 of Sakae Subway Station.

Notes:

• There is no parking available, so visitors are kindly requested to use public transportation.
• The event may be cancelled, postponed, or changed at any time, without prior notice.

What is the Mitsubishi UFJ Bank Museum?

The Mitsubishi UFJ Bank Museum, located in Tokyo, is dedicated to the history of Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, a significant player in Japan’s financial sector. The museum provides insights into the development of banking and finance in Japan, emphasizing Mitsubishi UFJ’s role in the country’s economic growth.

Visitors can explore a range of exhibits, including historical documents, artifacts, and interactive displays. These exhibits cover the bank’s journey from its inception in the late 19th century to its current global presence. The museum also offers a perspective on Japan’s economic history, including its industrialization and modernization.

Beyond its permanent collection, the museum hosts special exhibitions and events focused on Japanese culture and history. These programs often feature lectures, workshops, and cultural demonstrations, offering an educational experience for visitors.

The Mitsubishi UFJ Bank Museum is a resource for those interested in the connections between culture, history, and economics in Japan.

Please LOOK! Shrines for Love in GranSta Tokyo

Send your feelings to your loved one with "LOOK"!

Fujiya’s "LOOK" chocolate brand is the focus of a Valentine’s Day event at GranSta Tokyo, a shopping and dining complex located within Tokyo Station. The event, titled "Please LOOK! Love Shrine in GranSta Tokyo," features a venue designed as a shrine enshrining "Peko-sama," the mascot of Fujiya’s Milky candy brand. It offers a unique opportunity to combine the tradition of shrine visits with the modern celebration of Valentine’s Day.

Visitors are invited to engage in participatory events, purchase limited-edition sweets and goods, and even send their feelings to loved ones with LOOK chocolate. The event promises a blend of traditional Japanese customs and contemporary confectionary culture.

Event Highlights:

• Valentine’s Event Limited Edition Products: A variety of sweets and goods themed around the "LOOK" chocolate brand will be available for purchase.
• Original Ema Corner: Visitors can write their wishes on ema-style cards and tie them up at the shrine, a custom traditionally associated with Japanese shrines.
• "LOOK with Love" Smile Switch Large Panel: A large interactive panel featuring the "LOOK with Love" theme.
• BIG Peko-sama Panel Display: A large display featuring Peko-chan, the iconic mascot of Fujiya.
• Enshrining Peko-sama! Display of a Small Shrine (Hokora): A small shrine, or hokora, dedicated to Peko-sama, adding a unique touch to the event.

Featured Products:

The event features a range of products inspired by "LOOK" chocolate, making them ideal for Valentine’s Day gifts or souvenirs.

• "LOOK Cookie Sandwich (various)" (¥648 each, including tax): These cookie sandwiches feature crispy, crumbly cookies with cream fillings inspired by various "LOOK" chocolate flavors, including "LOOK (A-la-Mode)," "LOOK (Milk Parade)," and "LOOK (White Lovers)." There are ten flavors in total, sold in boxes of two. The packaging is unique to each flavor, adding to the appeal. Sets are also available, tailored to the three main "LOOK" flavor profiles:

  • "LOOK (A-la-Mode)" 4-piece set (¥2,592 including tax): Banana, Blueberry, Strawberry, and Pineapple.
  • "LOOK (Milk Parade)" 3-piece set (¥1,944 including tax): Crispy Milk, Sweet Bitter Milk, and Rich Milk.
  • "LOOK (White Lovers)" 3-piece set (¥1,944 including tax): Crispy White, Vanilla White, and Rich White.
  • The ten individual flavors are: Banana, Blueberry, Strawberry, Pineapple, Crispy Milk, Sweet Bitter Milk, Rich Milk, Crispy White, Vanilla White, and Rich White. Each box contains two pieces.

• "LOOK (A-la-Mode) Can" (¥880 including tax): This collectible can, designed after the "LOOK (A-la-Mode)" package, contains four pieces each of the Banana, Blueberry, Strawberry, and Pineapple flavored LOOK chocolates. The can itself can be repurposed after the chocolates are consumed.

• "Chocolate Cake to Enjoy Chocolate (various)" (¥690 each, including tax, refrigerated): Previously featured at a Tokyu Plaza Ginza event in January 2024, these bottled chocolate cakes are inspired by the Strawberry and Banana flavors of "LOOK (A-la-Mode)," as well as "LOOK (Milk Parade)," and "LOOK (White Lovers)."

• "Peko-chan Secret Die-Cut Acrylic Carabiner Keychain" (¥770 including tax): These colorful, Milky-patterned acrylic carabiners feature a die-cut design and can be attached to bags or totes. There are 12 random types, including one secret design.

• "Peko x Sweets Mini Towel" (¥660 including tax): These mini towels feature a Peko-chan x Sweets design and are available in four random types.

Promotional Offers:

• Limited Edition Original Shopping Bag: Customers who spend ¥2,400 or more (including tax) will receive a shopping bag featuring the original "Smile Switch Festa" design. These bags are also available for purchase separately for ¥180 (including tax). Limited quantities are available.

• Gift Campaign: Customers spending ¥2,400 or more (including tax) will receive a non-saleable "Original Clear Bottle (Smile Mark)." This campaign runs from February 4th to February 19th, 2025. Business hours vary, with the last day ending at 8:00 PM. Limited quantities are available.

• Peko-chan BIG Gachapon: A large gachapon (capsule toy) machine is available for customers who spend ¥2,400 or more (including tax). This activity is available from February 4th to February 19th, 2025. Business hours vary, with the last day ending at 8:00 PM. The event ends when prizes run out, and prizes for the 4th and 5th place may not be selectable depending on stock.

• Original Ema Corner: Visitors can write their love wishes and thoughts on ema-style cards provided at the venue and tie them up, in a manner similar to traditional shrine visits.

Important Notes:

• Purchase limits may be imposed on certain products.
• All prices include tax. Both the standard tax rate (10%) and the reduced tax rate (8%) apply to different products.
• All images are for illustrative purposes only.
• Business hours and events are subject to change or cancellation without notice. Please check the GranSta Tokyo official website for the latest information.

Event Details:

• Venue: Tokyo Station Square Zero (Inside JR Tokyo Station B1 ticket gate)
• Address: 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo JR East Tokyo Station B1F/1F
• Nearest Station: Tokyo Station
• Event Period: February 4th (Tuesday) – February 19th (Wednesday), 2025
• Time:
  • Monday – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Sunday/Holidays: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • February 14th (Friday): 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  • February 15th (Saturday): 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Last day (February 19th): Ends at 8:00 PM
• Official Website: https://www.fujiya-peko.co.jp/smileswitch/shop/
• Map: Google Maps

The published content is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the official website of the venue or organizer.

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What is GranSta Tokyo?

GranSta Tokyo is a shopping and dining complex located within Tokyo Station, one of the busiest railway stations globally. Positioned centrally in the city, GranSta combines convenience with a range of shopping and dining options, attracting both travelers and locals. The complex includes a variety of shops, from boutiques to specialty stores, offering fashion, accessories, souvenirs, and gifts. GranSta is also known for its diverse food options, featuring restaurants, cafes, and food stalls that serve both Japanese and international cuisine. Its location within Tokyo Station makes it a convenient place for visitors to explore while waiting for trains or as a destination itself. GranSta Tokyo also hosts events like the LOOK Chocolate Shrine, adding interest to visits, especially around Valentine’s Day.

Strawberry x Valentine Afternoon Tea at Keio Plaza Hotel

Sky Lounge "Aurora" Offers a February-Exclusive, Strawberry and Chocolate Infused Afternoon Tea, Complete with a Complimentary Glass of Sparkling Wine

For February 2025 only, Keio Plaza Hotel’s Sky Lounge "Aurora" presents a special afternoon tea plan, enhanced by the inclusion of a complimentary glass of sparkling wine, ideal for a celebratory toast.

This limited-time offering showcases the culinary expertise of the chef through a carefully curated selection of savory dishes and sweets. The menu emphasizes the delightful combination of seasonal strawberries and Valentine’s Day chocolate. The experience is further elevated by the provision of free-flowing coffee, allowing for unlimited refills – a feature that undoubtedly enhances gatherings of close friends or adds a special touch to a romantic date. Patrons are invited to spend a refined afternoon in the comfort of a window seat, affording an intimate perspective of Tokyo’s cityscape from the vantage point of the 45th floor.

Key Details

• Location/Nearest Station:
  • Keio Plaza Hotel
  • Tochomae Station (1-minute walk)
  • Shinjuku West Exit Station (5-minute walk)
  • Shinjuku Station (5-minute walk)
• Address: 2-2-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8330 (MAP)
• Venue: Sky Lounge Aurora, located within Keio Plaza Hotel
• Event Period: February 1, 2025 (Saturday) – February 28, 2025 (Friday). Please note that the lounge is closed on Sundays.
• Business Hours on Public Holidays: Hours are subject to the respective day of the week. Open every day starting Sunday, February 2, 2025. Please refer to the official website for detailed information.
• Time: 3-hour seating (last order 30 minutes before the end of the seating)
• Price/Fee: Starting from 6500 yen (tax and service charge included)
• Official Website: Sky Lounge Aurora / Keio Plaza Hotel

Please be aware that the published content is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, kindly consult the official website of the venue or organizer.

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What is Sky Lounge Aurora?

Sky Lounge Aurora is a venue located on the upper floors of the Keio Plaza Hotel, offering views of the Tokyo skyline. The lounge provides a quiet space away from the city below. Guests can enjoy a range of food and drinks, from cocktails to dining options. The lounge’s design, with large windows and comfortable seating, creates a welcoming atmosphere suitable for both small gatherings and special events. Whether visiting for an evening or an afternoon tea, Sky Lounge Aurora offers a distinct experience above the city.

<h1>Hina Matsuri Celebration at the Hotel: Festive Cuisine Served on Arita Ware and Gorgeous Hina Dolls</h1>

<p>The Keio Plaza Hotel in Shinjuku is hosting its 24th annual "Enjoying Hinamatsuri at the Hotel" event, a celebration of early spring and the traditional Japanese festival of Hinamatsuri, also known as the Doll Festival or Girls’ Day.</p>

<h2>Event Overview: Engaging All Five Senses</h2>

<p>Running from February 1st to March 27th, 2025, the event offers a multi-sensory experience, inviting guests to engage with Hinamatsuri through sight, sound, taste, and touch. The hotel will be transformed with a variety of displays and activities, providing a comprehensive and immersive cultural experience.</p>

<h3>Visual Delights: Exquisite Decorations and Art</h3>

<ul>
<li><strong>Hanging Decorations and Tiered Displays:</strong> The Main Lobby, 2nd floor, and 7th floor Restaurant Corridor of the Main Building will feature hanging decorations crafted from pure silk antique cloth (<em>honken kofu</em>) alongside tiered displays of Mataro dolls.</li>
<li><strong>Special Exhibitions:</strong>
<ul>
<li><strong>Tokyo Hand-painted Yuzen Dyeing (<em>tokyo tegaki yuzen zome</em>):</strong> This traditional craft will be showcased in the Main Building’s 3rd floor Main Lobby and Art Lobby.</li>
<li><strong>Imari Nabeshima Ware (<em>imari nabeshima yaki</em>):</strong> See Emperor and Empress dolls, along with Dog Boxes (<em>inu bako</em>), crafted in this exquisite style of porcelain.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>

<h3>Auditory Experience: Traditional Japanese Music</h3>

<ul>
<li><strong>Japanese Music Lobby Concert:</strong> Enjoy live performances of traditional Japanese music in front of the hanging decorations in the Main Building’s 3rd floor Main Lobby.
<ul>
<li><strong>Dates and Times:</strong> March 14th (Friday) and March 15th (Saturday), with performances at 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM each day.</li>
<li><strong>Performers:</strong>
<ul>
<li>March 14th: Tesshu Fukuhara (Flute) and Ami Sato (Koto).</li>
<li>March 15th: Kaori Ishimoto (Koto) and Hikaru Nakajima (Koto).</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>

<h3>Culinary Journey: Seasonal Cuisine on Arita Ware</h3>

<ul>
<li><strong>Seasonal Cuisine Served on Arita Ware:</strong> For the first time, select restaurants and bars within the hotel will offer special Hinamatsuri-themed menus served on exquisite Arita ware, a renowned style of Japanese porcelain.
<ul>
<li><strong>Period:</strong> February 1st, 2025 (Saturday) – March 31st, 2025 (Monday).</li>
<li><strong>Participating Locations:</strong>
<ul>
<li><strong>Restaurants:</strong> Japanese Cuisine <em>Kagari</em>, Kaiseki <em>Sousyuan</em>, Tempura <em>Shun</em>, All Day Dining <em>Jurin</em>.</li>
<li><strong>Bars:</strong> Japanese Sake Bar <em>Amanogawa</em>, Main Bar <em>Brillant</em>.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>

<h3>Hands-on Activities: Yuzen Dyeing Experiences</h3>

<ul>
<li><strong>(1) Tokyo Hand-painted Yuzen Dyeing Mini Handkerchief Making Experience (Reservation Required):</strong>
<ul>
<li><strong>Date and Time:</strong> February 26th (Wednesday), with the crafting session from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and a meal from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM.</li>
<li><strong>Location:</strong> Crafting will take place in the Banquet Hall, followed by a meal at Japanese Cuisine <em>Kagari</em>.</li>
<li><strong>Participation Fee:</strong> 12,000 yen per person, inclusive of materials, meal, service charge, and tax.</li>
<li><strong>Capacity:</strong> Limited to 20 participants.</li>
<li><strong>Instructor:</strong> Traditional Craftsman, Shiyoshi Takagi.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>(2) Color Insertion Yuzen Dyeing Workshop:</strong>
<ul>
<li><strong>Date and Time:</strong> March 14th (Friday) and March 15th (Saturday) from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.</li>
<li><strong>Location:</strong> Main Building, 3rd floor Art Lobby.</li>
<li><strong>Participation Fee:</strong> 3,000 yen per person, including service charge and tax.</li>
<li><strong>Time Required:</strong> Approximately 30 minutes.</li>
<li><strong>Capacity:</strong> 5 people per session.</li>
<li><strong>Instructor:</strong> Tokyo Yuzen Craftsman Group, Somemoyo.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>(3) Yuzen Shop:</strong>
<ul>
<li><strong>Date and Time:</strong> March 14th (Friday) 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM / March 15th (Saturday) 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM / March 16th (Sunday) 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM.</li>
<li><strong>Location:</strong> Main Building, 3rd floor Art Lobby.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>

<h2>Basic Information</h2>

<ul>
<li><strong>Venue:</strong> <a href="https://www.keioplaza.co.jp/event/hina/">Keio Plaza Hotel</a></li>
<li><strong>Nearest Stations:</strong>
<ul>
<li>Tochomae Station (1-minute walk)</li>
<li>Shinjuku Nishiguchi Station (5-minute walk)</li>
<li>Shinjuku Station (5-minute walk)</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Address:</strong> 〒160-8330, 2-2-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo (<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=35.69016920,139.69437483">MAP</a>)</li>
<li><strong>Event Period:</strong> February 1st, 2025 (Saturday) – March 27th, 2025 (Thursday) – Dates vary depending on the specific event.</li>
</ul>

<p>For detailed information on each event, please refer to the <a href="https://www.keioplaza.co.jp/event/hina/">official website</a>.</p>

<p>Please note that the published content is subject to change. It is recommended to check the official website of the venue or organizer for the most up-to-date information.</p>
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What Sets Tokyo Game Show Apart from Other Gaming Conventions?

The Tokyo Game Show (TGS) distinguishes itself through its focus on both Japanese and international gaming markets, offering a unique cultural and technological experience. Unlike many Western gaming events, TGS provides a distinctly Japanese perspective, highlighting the cultural influences on game design and storytelling. Attendees can explore a wide range of games, from the latest virtual reality innovations to classic retro titles, reflecting Japan’s rich gaming history.

TGS is also known for its focus on mobile gaming and new technologies, areas where Japan has been a leader. The event provides a platform for developers to present new advancements and for attendees to experience upcoming trends in gaming. Additionally, TGS offers opportunities for indie developers to showcase their work alongside major industry players, highlighting innovative and experimental games.

The Tokyo Game Show emphasizes community and fan engagement, with days dedicated to both industry professionals and the general public. This setup allows fans to interact with developers, participate in cosplay events, and enjoy live demonstrations and tournaments. This combination of professional networking and fan interaction makes TGS a dynamic event that captures the essence of gaming culture in Japan and beyond.

Rurouni Kenshin 30th Anniversary Exhibition: The Makoto Shishio Saga

Celebrating Three Decades of a Legendary Manga

The Rurouni Kenshin 30th Anniversary Exhibition, focusing on the Makoto Shishio Arc, offers a unique journey through one of the most iconic sagas in manga history. Unlike typical anniversary events, this exhibition provides an immersive experience centered around a specific, fan-favorite storyline, allowing for a deeper dive into the world of Rurouni Kenshin.

Highlights of the Exhibition

What sets this exhibition apart is its dedication to both the original manga and its anime adaptation. Visitors can expect:

• Original Drawings: A vast collection of Nobuhiro Watsuki’s original artwork, providing a rare glimpse into the creation of the Makoto Shishio arc.
• "Double Extreme" Photo Spot: An opportunity for fans to photograph themselves within a memorable scene.
• Life-Size "Sakabatou": A meticulously crafted replica of Kenshin’s reverse-blade sword, offering a tangible connection to the series’ central themes.
• Anime Materials: A curated selection of production materials from the TV anime, showcasing the adaptation process.
• Commemorative Colored Papers: A special display of colored papers contributed by 39 renowned artists, including a newly added piece by Nobuyuki Anzai at the Tokyo venue, each offering a unique tribute to Rurouni Kenshin‘s enduring legacy.

Event Details

The exhibition is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all visitors, with clear and concise information provided:

• Location: Animate Ikebukuro Main Store, 8F Space Galleria, easily accessible from Ikebukuro Station.
• Address: 1-20-7 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 170-0013 (MAP)
• Exhibition Period: January 10, 2025 (Friday) – February 10, 2025 (Monday).
• Hours:
  • Weekdays: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Weekends & Holidays: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Last entry is 30 minutes before closing.
  • On the final day (February 10th), the exhibition closes at 5:00 PM, with the last entry at 4:30 PM.
• Note: Business hours may be subject to change. Admission is not timed.

For the most up-to-date information, including ticket details and commemorative goods, please refer to the official website.

Planning Your Visit

The exhibition’s central location in Ikebukuro makes it convenient for both local and international visitors. For those traveling from afar, consider exploring accommodation options in the area: 🛏️ See hotels near Tokyo.

The published content is subject to change, so it is always recommended to check the official website for the latest updates before your visit.

Gallery

What is Rurouni Kenshin?

"Rurouni Kenshin" is a Japanese manga and anime series by Nobuhiro Watsuki, set in the early Meiji period. It follows Himura Kenshin, a former assassin known as "Hitokiri Battosai," who now wanders as a swordsman committed to protecting the innocent without taking lives. He wields a reverse-blade sword, symbolizing his vow to never kill again.

The series is noted for its storytelling, character development, and historical setting, combining elements of action, drama, and romance. Kenshin’s struggle with his past and his pursuit of redemption are central to the story. He encounters a range of characters, including allies and foes like Makoto Shishio, as he navigates a Japan in transition between tradition and modernity.

"Rurouni Kenshin" has been adapted into various formats, including anime series, films, and live-action movies, maintaining its appeal across different media. Its exploration of themes such as atonement, honor, and the consequences of one’s actions continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.