Start 2025 with Fortune at Atsuta Shrine’s Hatsu Ebisu Festival!

Kick off the new year with a visit to Atsuta Shrine’s vibrant Hatsu Ebisu festival, celebrating prosperity, family safety, and a bountiful fishing harvest. Join the enthusiastic crowds at the Kamichikama, Okuninushi, and Kotoshironushi Shrines within the Atsuta Jingu complex for this unique midnight event. Be among the first to receive special amulets and lucky rakes – ensuring good fortune for the year ahead.

Hatsu Ebisu: A Celebration of Prosperity

Date and Time: Sunday, January 5, 2025, starting at midnight (0:00)

Also known as "Itsuka Ebisu" (Fifth Day Ebisu), this festival is a must-attend for those seeking blessings for business success in the coming year. The energy of the crowd vying for the first-issued amulets and lucky charms is an experience in itself!

Unique "Ebisu" Amulets

Based on the ancient "Atsuta Sanmen Daikoku" drawing – one of the earliest pictorial representations of Ebisu-sama – these amulets are unique to Atsuta Shrine. Choose the amulet that resonates with you:

• Akinai Ebisu: For business owners and entrepreneurs.
• Hataraki Ebisu: For employees and those seeking career advancement.
• Tori Ebisu: For those in the fishing industry.
• Shogai Geneki Chikara Ebisu (Lifelong Active Power Ebisu): Introduced in 2016, this amulet is for those seeking sustained energy and vitality throughout life.

Tradition dictates that you return home directly after receiving your amulet, without speaking to anyone or making detours, to preserve its potent blessings.

Lucky Rake and Winnowing Basket: Gathering Fortune

Don’t miss the opportunity to acquire a "Fukukumade" (lucky rake) to rake in good fortune and a "Fukumi" (lucky winnowing basket) to gather virtue. Fukukumade are available in various sizes to suit your home or workspace. These lucky charms are believed to usher in good luck and open doors to new opportunities.

Event Location: Atsuta Jingu (Atsuta Shrine)

Nestled in the tranquil "Atsuta no Mori" forest in southern Nagoya, Atsuta Jingu, affectionately known as "Atsuta-san," welcomes nearly 7 million visitors annually. Revered as a spiritual home by locals and people nationwide, this grand shrine holds deep historical and cultural significance. Second only to Ise Grand Shrine, Atsuta Jingu houses the Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, one of Japan’s three sacred treasures. Originally built in the Owari style, the shrine was reconstructed in the Shinmei style in 1893.

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Date: Sunday, January 5, 2025
Time: Starting at midnight (0:00)
Location: Atsuta Jingu Shrine
Contact: Atsuta Jingu Shrine Office
TEL: 052-671-4151
Homepage URL: https://atsutajingu.or.jp/jingu/index.php
Access:

• 3-minute walk from Jingumae Station on the Meitetsu Nagoya Main Line
• 7-minute walk from Exit 2 of Atsuta Jingu Nishi Station on the Subway Meijo Line

What is Atsuta Shrine?

Atsuta Shrine is a significant Shinto shrine in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, Japan. It holds historical and cultural importance and is dedicated to Atsuta-no-Ōkami, the spirit linked to the Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi sword, part of the Imperial Regalia of Japan. Established nearly 1,900 years ago, it continues to be a focal point of worship and pilgrimage, attracting many visitors each year.

The shrine’s grounds include the Main Shrine (Honden) and various auxiliary shrines, all set in a tranquil forested area. Visitors can explore the Treasure Hall, which contains a collection of historical and national artifacts. Atsuta Shrine hosts several traditional festivals, providing insights into Japan’s religious customs and heritage.

Within the community, Atsuta Shrine functions as a place for reflection and cultural preservation. This is especially evident during events like the Hatsu Ebisu Festival, where attendees seek blessings and fortuitous beginnings for the year ahead.

All Aboard for Railway Expo 2025! 🎉

Calling all train enthusiasts! Get ready to embark on a captivating journey at the annual Railway Expo, returning to Osaka’s ATC Gallery this January. Whether you’re a seasoned railfan or simply curious about the world of trains, this event offers something for everyone.

This year’s Expo promises an even more immersive experience. Explore unique offerings from approximately 40 railway and railway-related companies, primarily from the Kansai region. Discover exclusive merchandise, savor ekiben (train station bento boxes) that evoke the charm of railway travel, and marvel at intricate diorama displays.

Dive into interactive experiences like driving simulators and explore fascinating photo galleries. Ever wondered about the engineering marvels that keep trains safe? Get hands-on with "unloosening screws" – Hard Lock Nuts – actually used on trains and tracks, and learn about the ingenuity behind railway safety.

The excitement continues on stage with appearances from railway company representatives and beloved mascots. Enjoy engaging talk shows featuring special guests, adding another layer of fun to this unforgettable event.

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Event Details:

• Dates: Saturday, January 11th – Monday, January 13th (National Holiday)
• Time: 10:00 – 17:00 (Last entry at 16:30)
• Location: Osaka Nanko ATC Gallery (ITM Building 2nd Floor, 2 Nankokita, Suminoe-ku, Osaka City)
• Admission:
  • Adults: ¥1,200 (Advance: ¥1,000)
  • Children: ¥800 (Advance: ¥600)
  • Children under 2: Free
• Advance Tickets: Sales end at 23:59 on Friday, January 10th. Same-day tickets are available at the venue.
• Re-entry: Permitted on the day of admission.

Contact:

Railway Expo Office / TV Osaka Business Development Center
06-6947-1912 (Weekdays 10:00 – 18:00)

Website: https://www.tv-osaka.co.jp/tetsudou2025/

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What are Osaka’s significant railway achievements and history?

Osaka’s railway history is closely linked to the city’s economic development. Rail transport began playing a crucial role in the late 19th century, setting the stage for Osaka’s transformation into an industrial hub. A key milestone was the introduction of the Hanshin Electric Railway in 1905, which connected Osaka with nearby cities such as Kobe. This network significantly improved commerce and travel within the Kansai region.

Osaka has consistently embraced technological advancements in rail. Notably, the city introduced Japan’s first privately financed high-speed rail line, the Hankyu Electric Railway, in 1910. This venture encouraged private investments in railways, forming a critical part of Japan’s transit infrastructure.

Following World War II, Osaka contributed significantly to developing the Shinkansen, or bullet train, which changed long-distance travel in Japan. The Tokaido Shinkansen line, operational since 1964, links Osaka with Tokyo and is among the busiest high-speed train routes worldwide.

Osaka’s metro system, established in 1933 with the Midosuji Line, highlights the city’s dedication to urban transportation. Being one of Japan’s oldest subway systems, it functions efficiently within an integrated network, reinforcing Osaka’s status in urban rail systems.

At the Railway Expo 2025, visitors will see how Osaka’s rail history has grown into a robust system reflecting historical and innovative advancements. This legacy not only defines Osaka’s identity but also illustrates its influence on Japan’s and global rail transportation.

✨ Witness the Lucky Platinum Snakehead at the Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium! ✨

Celebrate the 2025 Year of the Snake with a unique aquatic experience! The Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium is proud to present the shimmering Platinum Snakehead, reminiscent of the revered white snake, a symbol of luck and good fortune in Japanese culture. 🐍

The Striking Platinum Snakehead

These captivating fish, selectively bred albino snakeheads, are rarely seen and offer a mesmerizing spectacle. Their unique appearance sets them apart from their more common counterparts, making this exhibit a must-see.

Please note: The exhibited creatures and exhibition period are subject to change depending on the animals’ well-being.

Explore the Wonders of the Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium

While visiting the Platinum Snakehead, take the opportunity to explore the two fascinating buildings of the aquarium:

• South Building: Journey to Antarctica: Embark on an exciting adventure tracing the route of the Antarctic observation ship Fuji. Discover diverse creatures and their natural habitats across five aquatic regions, from Japan to the icy plains of Antarctica. 🐧

• North Building: A 3.5 Billion Year Journey: Animals That Returned to the Sea: Witness the majesty of bottlenose dolphins, belugas, and other incredible marine animals. Don’t miss the breathtaking performances in Japan’s largest main pool, accommodating approximately 3,000 spectators. These shows offer an unparalleled opportunity to learn about the animals’ ecology and behavior. 🐬

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Event Details: Platinum Snakehead Exhibit

Dates: December 24, 2024 (Tuesday) – January 13, 2025 (Monday, National Holiday)

Hours: 9:30 – 17:00 (Last entry at 16:00)

Location: Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium, South Building Entrance

Fee:

• Adults: 2,030 yen
• Elementary and Junior High School Students: 1,010 yen
• Infants (4 years and older): 500 yen

Contact: Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium – 052-654-7080 (English inquiries accepted)

Access: A short 5-minute walk from Exit 3 of Nagoya Port Station on the Meiko Line.

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What is a Platinum Snakehead?

The Platinum Snakehead is a variant of the snakehead fish, notable for its metallic silver appearance, which is unusually striking compared to typical snakeheads. Native to Asia and Africa, snakeheads are freshwater fish recognized by their elongated bodies and predatory nature. The uniqueness of the Platinum Snakehead lies in its rare genetic mutation that alters pigmentation, giving it its distinct color.

These fish are popular among aquarists and collectors who value their appearance. Like their relatives, Platinum Snakeheads are resilient and can adapt to varied environments. They possess a labyrinth organ, enabling them to survive in low-oxygen waters by breathing air.

The Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium features the Platinum Snakehead, allowing visitors to see this rare fish outside of private collections. This exhibition underscores the aquarium’s dedication to presenting diverse aquatic life and promoting awareness of ecological and genetic variation.

Celebrate 100 Years of Japanese Cars and Women Drivers! 🚗💨

This exciting new exhibition at the Toyota Automobile Museum explores the fascinating and often overlooked relationship between women and automobiles in Japan. Journey through five zones showcasing nine vehicles and discover how women have shaped the automotive landscape, from earning the first driver’s license in the 1910s to competing in motorsports from the 1950s and influencing car design with special edition models. See firsthand how diverse individuals, regardless of gender, are driving the automotive industry forward. The exhibition features vehicles from the museum’s own collection, as well as loans from other Japanese automakers and museums.

As mobility evolves, creating the next generation of beloved cars requires diverse perspectives and passionate collaboration. This exhibition shines a light on the crucial role women have played, offering visitors fresh insights and discoveries. Come explore a richer understanding of the relationship between people and cars, founded on respect for diversity.

Exhibited Vehicles

The exhibition features vehicles provided by these generous partners:

• Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd.
• Japan Automobile Museum
• Mazda Motor Corporation
• Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
• Suzuki Motor Corporation
  (Listed alphabetically)

Share Your Story! "Me and My Car" Photo Submission 📸

Want to be a part of the exhibition? We’re looking for photos for our "Me and My Car" corner! (Women are especially encouraged to participate!)

Submission Period: September 7, 2024 – January 13, 2025

Photo Requirements: L-size prints or smaller

To Participate: Submit a photo of yourself with a car. You must agree to have your photo displayed in the exhibition and on social media.

Perk: Free admission for one person (the photo submitter)! (Cannot be combined with other discounts).

Where to Submit: 1st-floor reception desk of the Automobile Museum. (Please note: submitted photos will not be returned.)

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Exhibition Details:

• Dates: September 7, 2024 – January 13, 2025
• Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM)
• Venue: Toyota Automobile Museum, Cultural Gallery 2nd Floor, Special Exhibition Room
• Admission:
  • Adults: 1,200 yen
  • Seniors (65+): 700 yen
  • Junior High/High School Students: 600 yen
  • Elementary School Students: 400 yen (Free from January 4-8, 2025)
  • (Includes consumption tax. Group discounts available.)
• Contact: Toyota Automobile Museum (TEL: 0561-63-5151)
• Website: https://toyota-automobile-museum.jp/

Getting There:

• Public Transportation: Geidai-dori Station (Linimo Line), approximately a 5-minute walk from Exit 1.
• Car: 0.4km west from Nagakute IC on the Nagoya-Seto Expressway (via Nisshin JCT on the Tomei Expressway). Free parking available.

The Role of Women in Japanese Automotive History

Women have significantly contributed to the development of the Japanese automotive industry in various capacities. From the outset, as the automobile market took root in Japan, women engaged as consumers, innovators, and active participants in the workforce, particularly noticeable during the post-war expansion of the industry. They contributed to design, engineering, and production processes, bringing essential perspectives to these fields.

In the realm of consumer influence, women’s preferences have significantly impacted car design and marketing. Recognizing this, automakers increasingly tailored their offerings to align with female buyers’ needs, focusing on functionality, safety, and aesthetics. This adjustment not only shaped vehicle features but also influenced how brands strategized their market presence.

Women’s impact extends to the vibrant car culture in Japan, where they have organized and participated in car clubs and events. Their enthusiasm has fostered unique customization trends that emphasize personal expression, contributing to Japan’s global reputation for creative and diverse automotive styles.

In recent years, women’s presence in leadership roles within the automotive industry has grown, challenging traditional norms and setting precedents for inclusivity. These roles have allowed for new insights into product development and sustainability, emphasizing inclusive and environmentally responsible practices.

Exhibitions such as those at the Toyota Automobile Museum highlight these contributions, honoring the pioneering women in the industry and encouraging future generations to continue innovating and breaking barriers in the automotive sector.

Trade Your Troubles for Luck at the Exchange of Lies Ritual! 🕊️

Want to turn your bad luck into good fortune? Then don’t miss the unique "Exchange of Lies" ritual at the Yamada Tenmangu Shrine! This Shinto tradition helps you symbolically shed the misfortunes of the past year and invite happiness into the new one.

How does it work? By offering a uso (a charming wooden bullfinch figurine) to the shrine, you’re essentially trading your troubles for good luck. It’s a fresh start, a chance to leave behind negativity and embrace a brighter future.

What makes this year special? While the Exchange of Lies ritual is an annual tradition, each year offers a unique opportunity to reflect and renew. Come experience the vibrant atmosphere and connect with the community as you participate in this centuries-old custom.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, January 25, 2025
• Time: From 10:00 a.m.
• Location: Yamada Tenmangu Shrine precincts (7-minute walk from Exit 5 of JR/Subway Meijo Line "Ozone" Station)
• Cost: "Uso" (wooden bullfinch figurine): Offering of 1,500 yen (limited quantity – arrive early to secure yours!)

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Contact Information:

• Yamada Tenmangu Shrine
• Tel: 052-981-5695
• Website: http://www.tenman.jp/

What is the Usokae ritual?

The Usokae is a traditional Japanese ceremony held at shrines like Nagoya’s Yamada Tenmangu. Participants exchange small carved wooden birds called "uso," which playfully reference the Japanese word for "lies" or "untruths." In this ritual, people swap these figurines to symbolically shed the misfortunes of the past year. As part of this communal event, attendees hope to receive a more elaborate bird, believed to usher in better fortune for the upcoming year. The Usokae fosters community ties and provides an opportunity for spiritual renewal as the new year begins.

Discover a Century of Art at the 2025 Nitten Exhibition in Nagoya

Journey into the heart of Japanese art at the 2025 Nitten Exhibition in Nagoya, a vibrant showcase of creativity spanning over a century. Since its inception in 1907 as the "Bunten," Nitten has evolved into Japan’s oldest comprehensive art exhibition, offering a captivating blend of tradition and innovation. The Nagoya exhibition, launched in 1951, continues this legacy, presenting a diverse collection of over 500 works.

This year’s exhibition promises an exciting new dimension. For the first time, in collaboration with the CBC Children’s Painting Exhibition, the "Soar! Towards the Future, Children – Nitten Nagoya Exhibition SDG’s Special Project" will showcase over 1,600 artworks by young artists exploring the theme "Draw Your Fun Summer Vacation." This unique collaboration offers a fresh perspective, bridging generations through the universal language of art. Experience the power of creativity firsthand, from established masters to emerging talents, all under one roof.

Explore five distinct genres:

• Japanese Painting
• Western Painting
• Sculpture
• Crafts
• Calligraphy

Admire select works from nationally acclaimed artists, including recipients of the Order of Culture and members of the Japan Art Academy, alongside exceptional pieces by local artists who have passed a rigorous selection process.

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Event Details:

• Dates: January 22 (Wed) – February 9 (Sun), 2025
• Closed: Mondays (January 27, February 3)
• Hours: 10:00 – 18:00 (Entry until 30 minutes before closing)
  • Fridays until 20:00
  • Final day until 16:30 (Entry until 15:30)
• Venue: Aichi Prefectural Museum of Art Gallery (Aichi Arts Center 8th floor)
• Fee:
  • General: 1,200 yen (1,000 yen for groups of 20 or more or advance tickets)
  • College/University Students: Free with student ID
  • Junior High School Students and younger: Free
• Contact: Chubu Nittenkai Secretariat (within CBC TV) – 052-241-8111
• Access: 3-minute walk from Sakae Station (Higashiyama and Meijo Subway Lines) or Sakaemachi Station (Meitetsu Seto Line) via the Oasis 21 connecting passage.

What is the Nitten Exhibition?

The Nitten Exhibition, established in 1907, is a prominent annual art event in Japan that showcases a variety of contemporary art forms. Initially part of the Bunten exhibition, it is now independently organized by the Japan Fine Arts Exhibition. Nitten provides a platform for both well-known and new artists, displaying works across five categories: Nihonga (Japanese-style painting), Yōga (Western-style painting), Sculpture, Craft, and Calligraphy.

The exhibition is noted for its careful selection process, where a panel of jurors chooses artworks based on quality and artistic merit. Over the years, Nitten has significantly contributed to the growth of Japanese art, helping artists gain broader exposure and recognition. Visitors to the exhibition can explore the diversity of Japan’s contemporary art, where traditional techniques meet modern expressions in the nation’s artistic landscape.

Discover Your Sweet Potato Soulmate at the 4th Annual "Falling in Love with Sweet Potatoes" Festival!

Calling all sweet potato lovers! Get ready to indulge in a delicious celebration of everyone’s favorite root vegetable at the 4th annual "Falling in Love with Sweet Potatoes" festival. This year’s event promises to be even sweeter than before, with new vendors and exciting activities. Join us for 11 days of pure sweet potato bliss at the Hanshin Umeda Main Store’s 1st-floor Food Festival Terrace.

Returning this year are sweet potato aficionados Ayuki Hashimoto, representative director of the Sweet Potato Ambassador Association, and Yasuko Okuno, director in charge of "Daigaku Imo" (candied sweet potatoes). They’ve curated an impressive selection of sweet potato treats from 11 vendors across Japan, including four exciting newcomers:

• FLANDERS FRITES (Fukui): Discover delicious sweet potato fries with a unique twist.
• Tsuboyaki Imo Kyoto Yamashina Zento (Kyoto): Experience the traditional flavors of Tsuboyaki Imo, slow-roasted sweet potatoes.
• Kyoto Kinnohana Saga Arashiyama Store (Kyoto): Indulge in elegant sweet potato desserts.
• Imoya Itadaki (Osaka): Savor Osaka’s take on sweet potato specialties.

From classic baked sweet potatoes and crispy Imo-Kenpi (candied sweet potato strips) to the ever-popular honey sweet potato cheesecake, you’ll find a sweet potato treat to satisfy every craving.

New This Year: Discover your perfect sweet potato match with the "Sweet Potato Love Fortune"! Receive a personalized fortune and discover your ideal sweet potato pairing. Who knows, enjoying your recommended treat might just boost your romantic luck for the year! (Free paper fortunes available at the venue, limited to the first 6,000 people.)

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Event Details:

• Dates: January 3rd (Friday) – January 13th (Monday/Holiday), 2025
• Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (9:30 AM – 7:00 PM on January 3rd)
• Location: Hanshin Umeda Main Store 1st floor Food Festival Terrace (1-13-13 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka)
• Admission: Free
• Website: Hanshin Department Store

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Discovering Hanshin Umeda

Located in the bustling Umeda district of Osaka, Japan, Hanshin Umeda is a commercial complex renowned for its diverse shopping and dining options. As part of the Hanshin Department Store, a longstanding retail brand, it offers a wide variety of fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products. Both locals and tourists frequent the complex, drawn to its multiple floors of retail spaces that include gourmet food halls and specialty shops. Here, visitors can enjoy local and international cuisines. Positioned near key transportation hubs, Hanshin Umeda is an accessible meeting point within Osaka. The complex also hosts events like the "Falling in Love with Sweet Potatoes" Festival, where sweet potato enthusiasts can enjoy themed activities and unique culinary treats dedicated to this popular root vegetable.