Usher in 2025 with Festivities at Isetan Shinjuku!

Kick off the new year in style at the Isetan Shinjuku New Year’s Festival 2025! Enjoy vibrant lion dances, delicious festival food, unique Isetan-patterned ema (prayer tablets), and exciting dream projects featuring Yoshimoto comedians.

This year’s dream projects offer truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences, including the "Isetan Yoshimoto New Year’s Gift Dream Project" with prizes like a personally cooked meal by Robert Baba and an exclusive "sweets assortment" curated by Horujuku Tanabe. There’s even a "Summer Special Project" with a chance to win a 3-night stay at the Disneyland Hotel and 6 days of baseball action at Dodger Stadium & Angel Stadium!

The main event, "New Year’s Festival 2025 – Start the New Year at ISETAN SHINJUKU -", takes place on the 6th floor of the Main Building. Get ready for a festive atmosphere complete with a dynamic lion dance parade, games, gourmet food stalls, and the chance to write your wishes on original ema.

Event Highlights:

Lion Dance Performance by "Edo Daikagura":

• Dates & Times:
  • January 2nd (Thursday): 3:00 PM~ (approx. 30 minutes)
  • January 3rd (Friday): 11:00 AM~ & 3:00 PM~ (approx. 30 minutes each)
• Route: Starts at the 1st Floor Main Entrance and proceeds to the 6th Floor Event Space (Baby/Children’s Clothing & Goods).

Make a Wish on a Limited-Edition Ema:

• Secure one of only 200 New Year’s Festival Original Ema for just ¥301.

Festival Gourmet:

• Details to be announced – check the official website for updates.

Digital Target Shooting:

• Participation: Mitsukoshi Isetan App Members Only
• Fee: Free

Digital First Calligraphy of the Year:

• Participation: Mitsukoshi Isetan App Members Only
• Fee: Free

[MI Card Members Only] Isetan Yoshimoto New Year’s Gift Dream Project:

• Dream Project 1: "Robert Baba will cook for you"
• Dream Project 2: "Monopolize Yuriyan Retriever?"
• Dream Project 3: Sweets lover! Horujuku Tanabe’s selection of "This is what you must eat!" Isetan sweets assortment

Event Details:

• Venue: Isetan Shinjuku
• Nearest Stations: Shinjuku-Sanchome Station (1-minute walk), Shinjuku Station (5-minute walk)
• Address: 〒160-0022 Tokyo, Shinjuku-ku, Shinjuku 3-14-1
  • MAP
• Dates: January 2nd (Thursday) – January 3rd (Friday), 2025
• Official Website: https://www.mistore.jp/shopping/event/shinjuku_e/newyear_10

※ For the latest information and event details, please visit the official website. Content is subject to change.

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What is Isetan Shinjuku?

Isetan Shinjuku is a well-known department store in Tokyo, Japan, established in 1886. It is part of the Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings group and is recognized for its range of fashion items, premium foods, and beauty products. The store draws both locals and visitors interested in quality and style. Its building houses various departments, including designer clothing, accessories, and gourmet groceries. Isetan Shinjuku also hosts cultural events and festivals, offering a glimpse into both traditional and modern Japanese culture.

Discover the Delicate Power of Kana: Gen no Kai Exhibition

Delve into the captivating world of Japanese calligraphy at the Isaburo Memorial Museum’s special exhibition, showcasing selected works by the Gen no Kai. This group of dedicated calligraphers has spent years mastering the art of kana, a writing system unique to Japan. Unlike other writing systems, kana allows artists to express the subtleties of human emotion and the essence of nature with remarkable depth. This has profoundly impacted various forms of Japanese literature, from evocative waka poetry to captivating narratives.

Even with identical sounds, kana characters offer limitless artistic possibilities. Calligraphers can freely manipulate character choice, size, and interconnectedness, transforming the script into a unique visual experience. From the flowing lines of connected characters to the delicate shading of ink and the elegant forms of individual symbols, this exhibition reveals the infinite potential of kana. Experience the captivating interplay of flowing grace and powerful expression, delicate nuance and grand scale.

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Exhibition Details:

• Dates: January 7th (Tuesday) – January 26th (Sunday), 2025
• Closed: Mondays (Open on January 13th for National Holiday, closed the following day)
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Venue: Tamezaburo Memorial Museum (Furukawa Museum Annex)
• Admission:
  • General: 1,200 yen
  • High school/University students: 500 yen
  • Elementary/Junior high school students and younger: Free
  • Various discounts available

Contact Information:

• Furukawa Chisokukai Furukawa Museum Annex Tamezaburo Memorial Museum
• Tel: (052) 763-1991
• Fax: (052) 763-1992
• Website: https://www.furukawa-museum.or.jp/

What is Kana Calligraphy?

Kana calligraphy is a Japanese art form focused on the syllabic scripts of hiragana and katakana, essential elements of the Japanese writing system. Unlike kanji, which are logographic, kana scripts represent sounds and convey linguistic subtleties through their distinct forms. This calligraphic style has historical roots in ancient Japan and is celebrated for its elegance and flow, bringing out the aesthetic charm of the language through thoughtful stroke work.

In the practice of kana calligraphy, artists emphasize the seamless transitions and refined simplicity of hiragana to express everything from classical poetry to everyday language. Katakana, on the other hand, adds a modern and dynamic touch, often used for stylistic expressions. Both scripts offer calligraphers a wide range of artistic possibilities, inviting experimentation with brush techniques to evoke specific emotions and effects.

Mastery of kana calligraphy transcends mere technical proficiency; it demands an appreciation of its deep cultural and historical contexts. Practitioners immerse themselves in these traditions to produce works that resonate with both age-old elegance and modern nuances. At Nagoya’s Tamezaburo Memorial Museum, visitors can explore and appreciate the skill and artistry involved in these calligraphic compositions, gaining insights into the enduring appeal of this traditional art form.

Indulge Your Strawberry Cravings at the "Strawberry, and Strawberry." Fair in Shinagawa Station! 🍓

This January, satisfy your sweet tooth at the "Strawberry, and Strawberry." Fair, held within the ecute Shinagawa shopping complex inside Shinagawa Station. From January 6th to 26th, discover 25 decadent strawberry treats, including 7 exclusive creations only available at ecute Shinagawa. Prepare to be captivated by visually stunning desserts perfect for the season!

Exclusive Treats You Won’t Find Anywhere Else

This year’s fair features several unique strawberry delights, setting it apart from previous editions. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the exclusive treats:

• Strawberry Jelly Mousse Cake Ichigo (¥799): Resembling a giant, jewel-like strawberry, this dessert features sweet and tart strawberry jelly encased in fragrant strawberry white chocolate mousse, all atop a subtly flavored dacquoise.

• Strawberry Mont Blanc (¥864): This adorable pink confection is a feast for the eyes and the palate. Enjoy layers of crisp crumble, strawberry custard cream, and fluffy sponge, topped with a generous swirl of strawberry cream and fresh strawberries. Available at Kyobashi Sembikiya.

• Mon Sabalan Strawberry (¥864): A delightful fusion of Mont Blanc and Savarin, this dessert features Kirschwasser syrup-soaked Savarin dough layered with vanilla pudding, whipped cream, and finished with a delicate piping of Amaou strawberry white bean paste. Available at Waraku Beniya.

• Strawberry Petit Parfait (¥972): This exquisite parfait is a layered masterpiece of crushed pistachio macaron, Amaou macaron, Genoise, tangy strawberry sauce, Chantilly cream, and fresh strawberries. Available at Dalloyau.

• Strawberry Canelé (¥320): This eye-catching canelé features strawberry-flavored dough dipped in white chocolate, filled with strawberry jam-infused heart-shaped ganache, and topped with dried strawberries. Available at Tachimachi Canelé SHINAGAWA.

• Strawberry Cheesecake (¥750, eat-in only): This unique cheesecake from Tamil’s features a base infused with Earl Grey tea and plenty of strawberries, served with a sweet and tart strawberry pulp sauce.

More Strawberry Delights

Beyond the exclusive items, the fair offers a variety of other tempting strawberry treats:

• Kaorino Strawberry Tart (with Wild Rose Sauce) (¥897): Made with fragrant Kaorino strawberries and served with a side of wild rose sauce for dipping. Available at Foundry. (Note: Availability may vary due to weather conditions, with sales potentially ending in mid-January.)

• Strawberry Tart (¥690): A delightful combination of maple custard, fresh strawberries, and honey whipped cream on a crunchy streusel base. Available at Patisserie QBG from 11:00 AM.

• Whole Strawberry Whipped Cream Sandwich (¥734): Enjoy a sandwich packed with fresh strawberries and light, house-made whipped cream. Available at Sandwich House Märchen.

Pick Your Own Strawberries! 🍓

Don’t miss the special strawberry picking event! Spend ¥1,500 or more at ecute Shinagawa on January 15th and pick your own strawberries (limited to the first 150 participants, 3 strawberries per person).

• Date: January 15th (Wednesday), 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
• Location: ecute Shinagawa Main Gate

Event Details

• Venue: ecute Shinagawa within Shinagawa Station
• Address: 3-26-27 Takanawa, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-0074 (JR East Shinagawa Station premises) Map
• Dates: January 6th (Monday) – January 26th (Sunday), 2025
• Time: Follows ecute Shinagawa’s business hours
• Website: ecute Shinagawa

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

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The Distinct Appeal of Japanese Strawberries

Japanese strawberries are distinct for their superior quality, marked by a balance of sweetness and tartness, vibrant color, and rich aroma. This distinction often results from careful cultivation practices that focus on enhancing flavor and texture rather than maximizing production. Japan’s climate, featuring distinct seasons and abundant rainfall, provides favorable conditions that contribute to the strawberries’ juicy nature.

A significant aspect of these strawberries’ appeal is the development of premium varieties such as Amaou, Tochiotome, and Sagahonoka. These varieties are grown with precision to offer a unique taste experience. With a higher sugar content and a softer texture, they become a special treat for those who appreciate fine fruit.

Strawberries in Japan also hold cultural importance, often linked with luxury and celebration. This cultural value enhances their popularity and encourages creative culinary uses that highlight the strawberries’ natural flavors. Events like Shinagawa Station’s Strawberry Fair showcase these fruits in various innovative forms, allowing people to appreciate the distinctive qualities of Japanese strawberries.

Uncover the Secrets of a Lucky New Year at the Hohsa Library Exhibition

Discover the fascinating origins of Japan’s most cherished New Year’s traditions at the Hohsa Library’s special exhibition, "Auspicious New Year." Explore the history behind iconic symbols like kadomatsu and kagami mochi, and learn how these traditions shape contemporary celebrations. Unlike previous exhibitions, this year’s focuses specifically on the symbolism and historical context of good fortune practices, offering a deeper dive into the cultural significance of the New Year.

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Exhibition Details:

• Dates: January 4th (Sat) – January 26th (Sun), 2025
• Closed: Mondays (If a national holiday falls on a Monday, the exhibition will be closed the following weekday).
• Hours: 10:00 – 17:00 (Last entry at 16:30)
• Venue: Nagoya City Hohsa Library Exhibition Room
• Admission: Combined ticket with the Tokugawa Art Museum:
  • General: ¥1,400
  • University/High school students: ¥800
  • Elementary/Junior high school students: ¥500

Contact Information:

• Nagoya City Hohsa Library
• Address: 〒461-0023 1001 Tokugawa-cho, Higashi-ku, Nagoya City
• Tel: 052-935-2173
• Fax: 052-935-2174
• Website: https://housa.city.nagoya.jp/

Getting There:

• City Bus (Trunk Bus Route No. 2): From Nagoya Station Bus Terminal Platform 10 or Sakae Bus Terminal (Oasis 21) Platform 3, get off at "Tokugawaen Shin-deki" (approximately a 3-minute walk).
• JR Chuo Line: Get off at "Ozone Station" (approximately a 10-minute walk from the South Exit).
• Subway Sakuradori Line: Get off at "Kurumamichi Station" (approximately a 15-minute walk).

What is Hohsa Library?

Hohsa Library is a cultural and information center in Nagoya City, Japan. It features an extensive collection focusing on Japanese history, literature, and arts. The library often serves as a community hub, providing resources and hosting events that encourage learning and cultural engagement. Among its highlights are various events and exhibitions dedicated to traditional Japanese customs.

During the New Year period, the library emphasizes Japanese New Year traditions through workshops, lectures, and interactive displays. These activities include making mochi (rice cakes), crafting kagami-mochi (decorative rice cakes), and kakizome (the year’s first calligraphy). Through these offerings, the library helps visitors gain insight into Japanese New Year practices.

Whisky Lovers Nagoya 2025: Your Drams Come True

Whisky Lovers Nagoya returns! Crafted by whisky enthusiasts for whisky enthusiasts, this year’s event promises an unforgettable experience. Mark your calendars for Sunday, January 26, 2025, and prepare to immerse yourself in a world of amber delights at the Fukiage Hall within the Nagoya City Small and Medium Enterprise Promotion Hall.

Whether you’re just beginning your whisky journey or consider yourself a connoisseur, Whisky Lovers Nagoya has something to offer. Explore a vast selection of whiskies and expertly crafted cocktails, tantalize your taste buds with delicious food pairings, discover unique whisky-related goods, and enjoy captivating stage events and the stirring sounds of bagpipes.

This year’s event goes beyond the ordinary, offering:

• Dedicated information desks and beginner’s guides: New to whisky? No problem! Our friendly guides will help you navigate the world of whisky and discover your new favorite dram.
• A global gathering of distillers and importers: Meet the passionate individuals behind your favorite brands, both domestic and international. Discover their stories and sample their exceptional offerings.
• The "Deep Lover’s Corner": For the seasoned whisky aficionado, this dedicated area showcases rare and exclusive bottles, providing an opportunity to discover hidden gems and expand your collection.
• A culinary adventure: Complement your whisky tasting with a diverse selection of culinary delights, carefully curated to enhance your experience.

To make the most of your day, we recommend planning your route in advance. Check out the venue map and strategize your booth visits to ensure you don’t miss a drop.

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Event Details:

• Date: Sunday, January 26, 2025
• Time: 11:00 – 17:00
• Venue: Nagoya City Small and Medium Enterprise Promotion Hall, 1st Floor, Fukiage Hall (5-minute walk from Exit 5 of Fukiage Station on the Sakura-dori Line)
• Fee: ¥5,000 (tax included) – Advance Ticket Purchase Recommended
• Contact: Whisky Lovers Nagoya Executive Committee Office

Important Notes:

• This event is strictly for those 20 years of age and older. No minors will be admitted, even with a guardian.
• Please refrain from attending if you have a fever of 37.5°C or higher, or experience symptoms such as cough, sore throat, or general malaise. Entry may be refused to those exhibiting these symptoms.

What is Nagoya known for?

Nagoya, located in central Japan, is noted for its historical landmarks, industrial significance, and distinct cuisine. A key feature of the city is Nagoya Castle, which reflects the region’s samurai heritage and architectural history. Nagoya is also central to Japan’s automotive industry, home to the headquarters of prominent car manufacturers like Toyota. The city attracts food enthusiasts with dishes such as hitsumabushi, grilled eel served on rice, and miso katsu, a breaded pork cutlet topped with miso sauce. Modern attractions include Oasis 21, known for its contemporary design, and the lively Sakae district. These elements highlight Nagoya as a city where history and modern life intersect.

Usher in the New Year at Rikugi-en Garden 🎊

Kick off 2025 with a serene and culturally enriching experience at Rikugi-en Garden, one of Tokyo’s eight metropolitan gardens. For the first two days of the new year, this historical landscape will be adorned with traditional kadomatsu (gate pines) and other festive decorations. This year, Rikugi-en offers unique experiences not found at other metropolitan gardens celebrating the New Year, including kimono-clad visitor perks and special photo opportunities.

Special New Year’s Activities:

• Kimono Perk: Arrive in traditional kimono and receive an exclusive Rikugi-en postcard as a memento of your visit.
• Auspicious Flowerbeds: Admire vibrant displays of good-luck flowerbeds, adding a touch of color to the winter scenery.
• Commemorative Photo Booth: Capture the moment in a happi coat with a Rikugi-en lantern. (Cancelled in case of rain.)
• Guided Garden Tours: Volunteer guides offer insightful tours of the garden, revealing its history and hidden gems. (Cancelled in case of rain.)

Essential Information:

• Venue: Rikugi-en
• Nearest Stations: Komagome Station / Sengoku Station
• Address: 6-16-3 Honkomagome, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 〒113-0021
• Map: Google Maps
• Dates: January 2nd (Thursday) – January 3rd (Friday), 2025
• Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry: 4:30 PM)
• Admission:
  • General: ¥300
  • Seniors (65+): ¥150
  • Free for elementary school students and younger, and Tokyo junior high school students (living or attending school in Tokyo).
  • Group Discount (20+ people):
    • General: ¥240
    • Seniors (65+): ¥120
• Free Admission: Visitors with a physical disability certificate, an Ai-no-techo, a Ryoiku-techo, or a mental disability certificate, and their accompanying person (one person in principle).
• Contact: Rikugi-en Service Center 03-3941-2222
• Official Event Website: New Year’s Start of the Year at the Metropolitan Gardens
• Weather Note: The event is held rain or shine, but some activities are cancelled in case of rain.

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

Rikugi-en Garden Overview

Rikugi-en Garden is a historic Japanese garden in Tokyo, known for its landscape and traditional design. Established during the Edo period in the early 18th century for the 5th shogun, Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, the garden reflects the aesthetic of a typical Edo-period strolling garden. "Rikugi-en" means "Garden of the Six Principles," embodying the elements of waka poetry in its layout.

Visitors can explore its winding paths that guide them through a carefully tended landscape of hills, pruned trees, peaceful ponds, and stone bridges. The garden’s central feature is a large pond, surrounded by dense foliage and teahouses, providing scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere within the city’s hustle.

Rikugi-en is notably recognized for its seasonal beauty, especially the cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage, which attract locals and tourists alike. Its historical value and refined design mark it as a significant cultural site in Tokyo, highlighting the integration of nature and art typical of Japanese gardens.

Celebrate New Year’s in Tokyo’s Tranquil Kiyosumi Garden

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and embrace the serene beauty of winter at Kiyosumi Garden this New Year’s. From January 2nd to 3rd, explore the unique winter landscapes, adorned with traditional New Year’s decorations, and discover a tranquil oasis in the heart of Tokyo.

Special New Year’s Events

This year’s celebration offers a blend of traditional Japanese culture and the quiet beauty of nature:

1. Iwasaki Family Garden Exhibition:

• Dates: January 2nd (Thursday) and 3rd (Friday)
• Time: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
• Location: Taisho Memorial Hall
• Delve into the history of the four "Gardens Related to the Iwasaki Family," designated as Tokyo Metropolitan Cultural Heritage Gardens. Explore photographs and informative panels showcasing their unique legacy.

2. Auspicious New Year’s Potted Plant Display:

• Dates: January 2nd (Thursday) and 3rd (Friday)
• Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Location: In front of the Taisho Memorial Hall
• Admire beautiful potted arrangements of pine, bamboo, and plum, symbolizing good fortune and prosperity for the New Year.

3. Relax and Refresh:

• Dates: January 2nd (Thursday) and 3rd (Friday)
• Time: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
• Location: Taisho Memorial Hall
• Enjoy light meals and refreshments, including sets of matcha and exquisite Japanese sweets. Savor the flavors while taking in the panoramic garden views.

4. Guided Garden Stroll (Weather Permitting):

• Dates: January 2nd (Thursday) and 3rd (Friday)
• Time: 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM (approximately 1 hour each)
• Meeting Point: In front of the Service Center
• Enhance your visit with a guided tour led by knowledgeable garden volunteers. Discover hidden gems and learn fascinating insights about the garden’s history and flora.
• Cost: Free (Garden admission fee applies).
• Cancellation Notice: Check the garden’s X (formerly Twitter) account for updates in case of rain.

Visitor Information

• Location: Kiyosumi Garden
• Nearest Stations: Kiyosumi-Shirakawa, Morishita, and Monzen-Nakacho Stations
• Address: 3-3-9 Kiyosumi, Koto-ku, Tokyo 〒135-0024
• Google Maps Link
• Dates: January 2nd (Thursday) – January 3rd (Friday), 2025
• Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM)
• Admission:
  • General: ¥150
  • Seniors (65+): ¥70
  • Free for elementary and junior high school students living or attending school in Tokyo.
  • Free for individuals with disabilities and one accompanying person (certificate required).
• Contact: Kiyosumi Garden Service Center: 03-3641-5892
• Weather: The event will proceed regardless of weather, except for the guided tour.

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

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What is Kiyosumi Garden?

Kiyosumi Garden is a Japanese stroll garden situated in central Tokyo. Originating from the Meiji era, the garden offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s lively atmosphere through its well-crafted paths, ponds, and diverse plant life. The design exemplifies traditional Japanese gardening principles with a central pond, stepping stones, koi fish, and stone lanterns. Its carefully pruned trees, strategically placed rocks, and quaint teahouses create a setting conducive to calm and contemplation. As you explore Kiyosumi Garden, the integration of nature and design showcases its enduring appeal and peacefulness, making it a valued and serene spot in Tokyo.

Celebrate 30 Years of Kodoku no Gurume at the Shibuya PARCO Expo!

Dive into the World of Kodoku no Gurume

The iconic food manga, Kodoku no Gurume, is turning 30! To celebrate this milestone, Shibuya PARCO is hosting the Kodoku no Gurume Expo, a must-see event for fans of the solitary gourmand, Inogashira Goro. With the upcoming 11th drama series, Sorezore no Kodoku no Gurume premiering in October 2024, and the first movie, Gekieiga Kodoku no Gurume, hitting theaters in January 2025, there’s no better time to revisit the world of delicious meals and quiet contemplation.

This isn’t just another exhibition; the Kodoku no Gurume Expo offers a unique, immersive experience. Explore high-definition reproductions of original artwork created exclusively for this event, themed around Goro’s famous lines, memorable characters, and of course, the mouthwatering food. Step into Goro’s shoes at interactive photo spots, trace the manga’s journey from page to screen with a detailed chronological timeline, and even see the costumes worn by Yutaka Matsushige in the live-action drama.

And what’s a celebration without souvenirs? Grab exclusive merchandise featuring original designs, including a special collaboration with Cheerio – yes, that Cheerio from the manga! – featuring a limited-edition glass depicting Goro enjoying his favorite soft drink.

Exclusive Merchandise:

• T-shirt: ¥4,500
• Long-sleeved T-shirt: ¥6,000
• Tote Bag: ¥2,500
• Clear File (set of 2): ¥1,200
• Sticker Set (5 stickers): ¥1,200
• Acrylic Keychain (5 random types): ¥500
• Plate: ¥2,000
• Kodoku no Gurume x Cheerio Collaboration Glass: ¥2,000

Don’t Miss the Special Event!

Join us for a one-day-only special event featuring exciting guests!

• Date: Sunday, January 12, 2024
• Venue: ComMunE (Shibuya PARCO 10F)
• Time: Doors open 1:30 PM, Event starts 2:00 PM (ends around 5:00 PM)
• Admission: ¥2,000 (tax included)
• Tickets: Available in advance through Live Pocket (first-come, first-served).

Expo Information:

• Venue: Shibuya PARCO (5-minute walk from Shibuya Station)
• Address: 〒150-8377 Tokyo, Shibuya-ku, Udagawa-cho 15-1 MAP
• Exhibition Space: GALLERY X BY PARCO Shibuya PARCO B1F
• Dates: January 9, 2025 (Thursday) – January 20, 2025 (Monday)
• Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Last entry 30 minutes before closing; closes at 6:00 PM on the final day)
• Admission: ¥700 (tax included)
• Official Website: https://art.parco.jp/galleryx/detail/?id=1640

All prices include tax. Images are for illustrative purposes only. Specifications, prices, and release dates are subject to change. Please check the venue’s and organizer’s official website for the latest information.

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What is Kodoku no Gurume?

"Kodoku no Gurume," or "The Solitary Gourmet," is a Japanese manga and television series appreciated for its introspective approach to dining. Created by Masayuki Qusumi and illustrated by Jiro Taniguchi, the series follows Goro Inogashira, a traveling salesman who explores various neighborhoods and eateries across Japan.

The focus of "Kodoku no Gurume" is the personal experience of dining alone, a departure from shows centered on cooking techniques or recipes. Each episode or chapter highlights Goro’s visit to a new restaurant or food stall, showcasing his reflections on the act of eating in solitude. His thoughts offer insights into both the flavors and the cultural rituals surrounding Japanese cuisine.

The series appeals to its audience with its vivid portrayals of food and its exploration of solitude as a meaningful experience. "Kodoku no Gurume" has become a notable presence in cultural discussions, encouraging individuals to embrace solitary dining as an opportunity for personal enjoyment. As the Kodoku no Gurume Expo 2025 at Shibuya PARCO commemorates 30 years of the series, it continues to draw fans worldwide to celebrate the nuances of solitary eating and the diverse culinary landscape of Japan.

Ring in the New Year with a Delightful Japanese Afternoon Tea at the Royal Park Hotel ☕

Celebrate the New Year in style with a limited-time afternoon tea experience at the Royal Park Hotel, featuring traditional Japanese sweets and New Year’s motifs. From December 26, 2024, to January 19, 2025, indulge in a delightful array of treats and savory bites that capture the spirit of the season.

Begin your culinary journey with a welcoming glass of plum kelp tea infused with shimmering gold flakes – a truly auspicious start! The New Year’s theme continues with meticulously crafted chocolate decorations shaped like kagamimochi and hamaya (lucky charms), and a vibrant green kadomatsu roll cake made with pistachio.

Savor a unique Western-style okoshi confection with hazelnuts and maple sugar, a refreshing glass dessert balancing ginger and tart kinkan (kumquat), and a delicate terrine featuring the subtle sweetness of Japanese chestnut and the fragrant aroma of yuzu. The experience also includes a rich matcha tart chocolat, a light and airy hojicha shortcake, and a selection of other traditional Japanese sweets.

Complementing the sweet treats are savory delights such as a soba salad topped with duck and green onions, a refreshing smoked salmon and cream cheese monaka, and a kamaboko (fish cake) and basil gratin with the comforting flavors of chawanmushi (steamed egg custard). This special afternoon tea offers a unique blend of Japanese and Western flavors, setting it apart from typical holiday afternoon tea offerings.

Event Details:

• Location: Royal Park Hotel (Website)
• Nearest Station: Suitengumae Station
• Address: 2-1-1 Nihonbashi Kakigaracho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 〒103-8520 (Map)
• Dates: December 26, 2024 – January 19, 2025
• Time:
  • Weekdays: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays, and December 31 – January 3: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Price: 8,000 yen per person
• Contact: Royal Park Hotel (03-3667-1111)
• Official Website (for reservations and latest information): https://www.rph.co.jp/restaurants/plan/c8mwiq0t4/

Please note that event details are subject to change. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

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What is Traditional Japanese New Year Cuisine?

Traditional Japanese New Year cuisine, known as "osechi-ryori," plays an integral role in Japan’s New Year celebrations. It combines cultural tradition with culinary creativity and is typically served in tiered lacquer boxes called "jubako." Each dish in osechi-ryori carries a symbolic meaning, conveying various hopes for the coming year.

A selection of key components includes kuromame (sweet black soybeans) for health, kazunoko (herring roe) for fertility, and tazukuri (candied sardines) to signify a plentiful harvest. Dishes such as kobumaki (kelp rolls) and datemaki (sweet rolled omelet) represent wishes for happiness and academic success, respectively. These dishes not only highlight seasonal ingredients but also emphasize a harmony of flavors, colors, and textures.

Osechi-ryori is traditionally enjoyed with family on New Year’s Day morning, following detailed preparation in the days leading up to the holiday. By partaking in this meaningful feast, families in Japan express gratitude for the past year and hope for future prosperity, combining joy and reflection.