HANGYODON CAFE ～40th Anniversary～

A Delightful Celebration of Sanrio’s Beloved Merman

Sanrio’s popular merman character, Hangyodon, is turning 40, and what better way to celebrate than with a themed cafe experience? Opening in 2025, this limited-time cafe offers a unique opportunity for fans – particularly those of Generation Z, who have embraced Hangyodon’s unique charm – to immerse themselves in the world of this beloved character and his friends. The cafe’s theme centers around hanami, the traditional Japanese custom of cherry blossom viewing, promising a vibrant and festive atmosphere.

The cafe, located at BOX cafe&space Q Plaza Harajuku, is easily accessible from Meiji-jingumae (Harajuku) Station. It will be open from March 6th to April 20th, 2025, operating in accordance with the store’s business hours. The address is: 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya-ku, Jingumae 6-28-6 Q Plaza Harajuku 3F (MAP).

A Culinary Journey with Hangyodon

The menu is thoughtfully designed to reflect the cherry blossom viewing theme, featuring Hangyodon enjoying the festivities with his friend Sayuri. It offers a diverse selection of Chinese-inspired dishes and Instagram-worthy desserts, all presented with a distinctive pink hue.

Savory Options:

• Hangyodon’s Happy Yum Cha (2,090 yen, tax included): This dim sum set features a meat bun adorned with Hangyodon’s face, accompanied by shumai, peach buns, and other delicacies. It also includes Hangyodon’s favorite shrimp crackers and almond tofu, providing a refreshing palate cleanser. Guests can enjoy refillable jasmine tea, enhancing the dining experience.
• Hangyodon’s Spicy Chinese Restaurant (1,690 yen, tax included): For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this set menu offers Hangyodon-colored rice, twice-cooked pork, and a mala-flavored soup with a two-star spice level. Diners are encouraged to customize their meal by adding toppings to the soup or combining the rice and soup.
• Hangyodon’s Sakura Manten Cold Chinese Noodles (1,590 yen, tax included): A returning favorite from the previous year, this dish features Hangyodon’s beloved cold Chinese noodles, now presented with a cherry blossom theme. Pink ingredients like red radish, ham, and smoked salmon add to the visual appeal.

Sweet Treats:

• Hangyodon 40th Anniversary Celebration Cake (1,690 yen, tax included): Celebrate Hangyodon’s milestone with this adorable cake, inspired by the event’s key visual.
• Hangyodon and Sayuri’s Cherry Blossom Viewing Parfait: This parfait captures the essence of hanami, with layers of cornflakes, white peach, and milk pudding. Cotton candy represents the cherry blossoms, while grissini mimic the tree trunk.
• Hangyodon, Spring Hot Spring Mood (1,390 yen, tax included): This visually appealing dessert presents a cherry blossom-colored tofu pudding, evoking the image of Hangyodon relaxing in a cherry blossom hot spring. It’s a refreshing combination of vanilla ice cream, fruit, shiratama dango, tapioca, and more.

Beverages:

• Haruranman Float (1,090 yen, tax included): A returning favorite, the Bonyari Float, is now available in a cherry blossom color. This lactic acid bacteria float drink features strawberry ice cream shaped like Hangyodon’s face, complete with a charming expression as he gazes at the three-colored dango on his head.
• Sakura Blossom Latte (990 yen, tax included): This latte combines the flavors of cherry blossom and strawberry, topped with whipped cream and feuilletine to represent a cherry blossom blizzard. It comes with a randomly selected straw tag as a take-home souvenir.
• Peach Spring Tea Soda (990 yen, tax included): A refreshing peach tea soda with a spring-like color, also accompanied by a randomly selected straw tag.

Side Drinks:

A selection of classic beverages is also available, including Hot Coffee, Hot Tea, Iced Coffee, Iced Tea, Cola, Orange, and Ginger Ale, each priced at 690 yen (tax included). Please note that these side drinks do not count towards the one-order requirement and are not eligible for drink benefits.

Exclusive Benefits and Merchandise

To enhance the experience, the cafe offers special benefits:

• Cafe Usage Benefit (Limited to Advance Reservations): Guests who make advance reservations (600 yen, 660 yen tax included, per person) and order from the menu will receive a randomly selected "Photo Props" (4 types available).
• Menu Order Benefit: For every 3,300 yen (tax included) spent on the menu, guests will receive a "Scented Postcard" with a cherry blossom scent.

In addition to the culinary delights, a range of original merchandise will be available for purchase:

• Acrylic Keychain (7 random types): 770 yen (tax included)
• Can Badge (7 random types): 605 yen (tax included)
• Acrylic Mini Figure (6 random types): 990 yen (tax included)
• Cushion Keychain: 1,210 yen (tax included)
• Clear Pouch: 1,540 yen (tax included)
• Mini Towel: 1,430 yen (tax included)
• Mug Cup: 1,980 yen (tax included)

For detailed information on the merchandise, please refer to the official website.

This Hangyodon Cafe promises a memorable experience for fans, combining a unique culinary journey with the charm of Sanrio’s beloved character. It’s a perfect way to celebrate Hangyodon’s 40th anniversary and enjoy the beauty of the cherry blossom season.

Published content is subject to change. Please check the official website of the venue/organizer for the latest information.

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Who is Hangyodon?

Hangyodon is a character created by the Japanese company Sanrio, which is known for its collection of charming characters. Introduced in 1985, Hangyodon is a blue fish-like creature with a humorous personality. He is often shown with a wide grin and a fin on his head. Despite his clumsy nature, Hangyodon aspires to be a hero. Over the years, he has become popular for his charm and relatable dreams. As part of Sanrio’s lineup, Hangyodon has been featured on various merchandise, including stationery and plush toys. Celebrating his 40th anniversary, Hangyodon continues to be a favorite among fans, representing the playful spirit typical of Sanrio characters.

You and Idol Pretty Cure♪ Exhibition ~The Moment We Meet~

"I want to see you, my beloved! Let’s enjoy a sparkling and glittering time together!"

The You and Idol Pretty Cure♪ Exhibition ~The Moment We Meet~ offers a deep dive into the world of Idol Pretty Cure, featuring interactive exhibits and fan-focused activities. Attendees can immerse themselves in the "Oshikatsu Room," designed for fans to engage in Oshikatsu (fan activities), or discover their ideal Pretty Cure match through the "Oshi Pretty Cure Diagnosis," administered by the character Pururun. The exhibition space itself will be adorned with decorations inspired by the Idol Pretty Cure aesthetic.

©ABC-A・Toei Animation

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Event Details:

• Dates: March 15, 2025 (Saturday) – April 20, 2025 (Sunday)
• Closed: Open daily during the exhibition period.
• Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Last entry is 30 minutes before closing, at 4:30 PM).
• Venue: Telepia Hall (2F Telepia Building, 1-14-25 Higashi-sakura, Higashi-ku, Nagoya, 〒461-0005)

Ticket Pricing:

Visitors have several ticketing options, differentiated by age and the inclusion of bonus goods:

• Regular Ticket:
  • Advance Purchase: Adult (Junior high school students and above): 1,800 yen; Child (3 years old – elementary school students): 1,000 yen.
  • Same-Day Purchase: Adult: 2,000 yen; Child: 1,200 yen.
• Admission Ticket with Bonus Goods (Limited Quantity):
  • This ticket includes a newly drawn, main visual foil-stamped acrylic panel.
  • Advance Purchase: 5,000 yen.
  • Same-Day Purchase: 5,200 yen. Sales of this ticket type will cease once the limited quantity is sold out.

Important Pricing Notes:

• Children under 3 years old are granted free admission, provided they are accompanied by a guardian who has a paid general admission ticket.
• Individuals possessing a disability certificate (including Physical Disability Certificate, Mental Disability Certificate, Rehabilitation Certificate, Pediatric Chronic Disease Certificate, A-bomb Survivor’s Certificate) or a Specific Disease Medical Allowance Recipient Certificate are entitled to have one accompanying caregiver enter free of charge. This provision extends to those presenting a digital disability certificate via smartphone (Mirairo ID). Please note that the person with the disability is still required to purchase a ticket.
• All attendees are advised to review the precautions listed on the official event website prior to their visit.

Contact Information:

• Organizer: Me～Tele
• Telephone: 052-331-9966 (Available weekdays from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM)
• Website: https://www.toei-anim.co.jp/lp/precure/exh/

Access and Transportation:

The Telepia Hall is conveniently accessible via multiple public transportation options:

• Subway: A 5-minute walk east from Exit 4A of Sakae Station (Higashiyama and Meijo Subway Lines) and Sakaemachi Station (Meitetsu Seto Line). Alternatively, a 5-minute walk south from Takaoka Station (Sakuradori Subway Line).
• City Bus: Disembark at the "Higashishinmachi" city bus stop.

What is Idol Pretty Cure♪?

Idol Pretty Cure♪ is a series within the Pretty Cure franchise, known for its magical girl themes. This installment combines elements of idol culture with the traditional Pretty Cure narrative. In the series, a group of girls become idols with magical powers, tasked with protecting the world from dark forces while also pursuing their dreams in the music industry.

The series is noted for its characters, each with unique personalities and musical skills, which they use to inspire others. Throughout the series, themes of friendship, perseverance, and self-belief are explored. Idol Pretty Cure♪ includes songs and performances that have appealed to audiences.

By merging music, magic, and adventure, Idol Pretty Cure♪ offers a new perspective within the Pretty Cure universe, appealing to fans of both magical girl stories and idol culture.

Spring Night Special Viewing at Rikugien Garden

Experience the Beauty of Cherry Blossoms After Dark

The "Spring Night Rikugien Garden Special Night Viewing," a much-anticipated light-up event celebrating the cherry blossom season, returns to Rikugien Garden this year. This annual tradition offers a unique opportunity to experience the garden’s serene beauty under the enchanting glow of carefully orchestrated illuminations.

During this special event, Rikugien Garden extends its hours into the evening, providing exclusive access to a landscape usually hidden from public view after sunset. The illuminations showcase several key features of the garden, including the central island, the ruins of Ginkatei, and Suikōno-e, with the magnificent weeping cherry tree taking center stage. This iconic tree, standing approximately 15 meters tall with a 20-meter wide canopy, becomes a breathtaking spectacle as it appears to float ethereally against the night sky.

Beyond the weeping cherry tree, visitors can enjoy projection mapping on the walls of a historic storehouse dating back to the Iwasaki family era, along with thoughtfully placed photo spots designed to enhance the atmosphere of a spring evening.

◆ Event Details

(1) Special Night Viewing

• Date and Time: Every evening during the event period, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
• Location: The entire garden (with some areas restricted).
• Details: A variety of locations will be illuminated, centering on the weeping cherry tree. These include the central island, a prominent scenic viewpoint within Rikugien Garden, as well as Fukiageno-matsu, Takimi-jaya (a tea house), the ruins of Ginkatei, and Suikōno-e.

(2) Storehouse Projection (Cancelled in case of inclement weather)

• Date and Time: Every evening during the event period, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
• Location: Storehouse (exterior wall).
• Details: Projection images, drawing inspiration from waka poetry, will be displayed on the walls of the storehouse, a structure built during the period of ownership by the Iwasaki family, founders of Mitsubishi.

(3) Lights of Words

• Date and Time: Every evening during the event period, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
• Location: Around the garden paths.
• Details: Waka poems, which serve as the origin of the Eighty-Eight Scenic Spots of Rikugien Garden, will be projected onto acrylic light guide panels. This creates the illusion of poems written in light, seemingly suspended in mid-air.

(4) Weeping Cherry Tree at the Ruins of Ginkatei

• Date and Time: Every evening during the event period, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
• Location: Around the ruins of Ginkatei.
• Details: At the ruins of Ginkatei, a location where Tsuruhime, eldest daughter of the fifth shogun Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, is said to have enjoyed viewing cherry blossoms, the weeping cherry tree will be illuminated. A "light curtain" will be created around it, aiming to recreate the lively atmosphere of that historical period.

(5) Projection on Suikōno-e

• Date and Time: Every evening during the event period, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
• Location: Suikōno-e.
• Details: Suikōno-e, a place where water is believed to have flowed in the past, will have the flow of water recreated with light, accompanied by illuminated lotus flowers.

(6) Photo Spots (Cancelled in case of rain or strong wind)

• Date and Time: Every evening during the event period, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
• Location: Various locations within the garden (subject to change depending on circumstances).
• Details: Photogenic spots will be set up at multiple locations throughout the garden, providing opportunities for memorable photos against the backdrop of this elegant setting.

(7) Matcha Tea House

• Details: A selection of matcha and Japanese sweets sets, ideal for a relaxing break during your stroll, will be available for purchase, along with original Rikugien souvenirs.
• Date, time, and location are yet to be determined. Please refer to the official website for updates.

Basic Information

• Venue / Nearest Station: Rikugien, Komagome Station / Sengoku Station.
• Address: 〒113-0021, 6-16-3 Honkomagome, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo (MAP).
• Event Period: Seven consecutive days between March 14th (Friday) and March 30th (Sunday), 2025. The precise dates will be finalized approximately one week prior to the event. Please check the official website for details.
• Fees: Advance purchase of a Special Night Viewing ticket is required. Access to this event is exclusively granted to Special Night Viewing ticket holders.
  • (1) Advance Tickets: Sold online with advance payment. Price: 900 yen (tax included).
  • (2) Same-Day Tickets: Sold at the ticket window and online. Price: 1,100 yen (tax included).
• Inquiries: Rikugien Service Center, 03-3941-2222.
• Official Website: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/rikugien/news/2024/info_r7spring.html
• Official SNS: X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/RikugienGarden
• Information in Case of Rain: Announcements regarding event changes due to inclement weather will be posted on the official Rikugien X (formerly Twitter) account.
• The information presented here is subject to change. For the latest updates, please consult the official website of the venue or organizer.

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What is Rikugien Garden?

Rikugien Garden is a traditional Japanese garden in Tokyo, known for its landscape design and historical roots. Established in the early 18th century during the Edo period, it was commissioned by the fifth shogun, Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, and designed by Yanagisawa Yoshiyasu. The name "Rikugien" means "Garden of the Six Principles of Poetry," inspired by classical Japanese waka poetry.

Covering nearly 87,000 square meters, Rikugien exemplifies a "strolling garden," where visitors can walk along paths that reveal a series of composed scenes. The garden includes a central pond, man-made hills, and diverse plant species that change with the seasons. In spring, cherry blossoms attract many visitors with their pink and white blooms.

Rikugien’s design blends natural and man-made elements, offering a peaceful retreat from the city. Its detailed design and tranquil atmosphere make it a valued cultural and historical site in Tokyo. Whether visited during the day or at night, Rikugien provides insight into traditional Japanese garden design.

20th Osaka Asian Film Festival: March 14th – 23rd, 2025

The Osaka Asian Film Festival (OAFF) is returning for its 20th anniversary, promising a diverse showcase of Asian cinema. With screenings scheduled from Friday, March 14th to Sunday, March 23rd, 2025, the festival aims to connect Osaka to all of Japan, and subsequently, the greater Asian continent, through the power of film.

A Celebration of Asian Cinema

This year’s festival boasts a total of 67 films, selected from what is said to be the highest number of applications in the event’s history. These selections represent a broad spectrum of cinematic voices from 18 countries and regions, including Bangladesh, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Korea, Malaysia, Mongolia, Norway, the Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand, the USA, and Vietnam.

The lineup includes a significant number of premieres:

• 19 World Premieres
• 6 International Premieres
• 4 Asian Premieres
• 31 Japan Premieres

This high number of premieres underscores the festival’s growing importance as a platform for launching new Asian films onto the world stage.

Opening and Closing Highlights

The festival will open with a special screening of "Soldiers of Love," a contemporary Kazakhstani musical. This film features A’Studio, a renowned musical group that achieved international recognition in the 1990s and continues to be active. The film is described as a "masterpiece musical" with impressive music and dance sequences.

The closing film, "I Am Kirishima", directed by Tomoaki Takahashi and starring Katsuya Maikuma, is a social drama based on the life of Satoshi Kirishima. Kirishima was wanted in connection with a series of corporate bombings and remained a fugitive for 49 years until his death in 2024 at the age of 70. The film, blending historical fact with fictional elements, will have its world premiere on March 23rd at ABC Hall, following the closing ceremony.

Venues and Ticketing

The festival screenings will be held across multiple venues in Osaka:

• ABC Hall (1-1-30 Fukushima, Fukushima-ku, Osaka)
• Theater Umeda (1-1-88 Oyodonaka, Kita-ku, Osaka, Umeda Sky Building Tower East 3rd & 4th floors)
• T-Joy Umeda (1-12-6 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka, E-ma Building 7th floor)
• Osaka Nakanoshima Museum of Art (4-3-1 Nakanoshima, Kita-ku, Osaka)

It is important to note that screening dates and times will vary depending on the individual film. Similarly, ticket prices, sales methods, and release dates are subject to variation depending on the venue and date of the screening. Each screening requires one ticket per person.

Further Information

For any inquiries, the Osaka City General Call Center (Naniwa Call) can be reached at 06-4301-7285. The call center is open year-round from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Additional details, including the full program schedule, can be found on the official festival website: https://oaff.jp.

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What makes Osaka a significant hub for Asian cinema?

Osaka has become an important center for Asian cinema due to its location, cultural diversity, and dedication to showcasing a variety of films from across the continent. As Japan’s second-largest city, Osaka acts as a meeting point for different cultures, offering a lively setting for filmmakers and audiences. The city’s history in the arts and its urban environment make it a fitting place for a film festival that highlights the diversity and creativity of Asian cinema.

The Osaka Asian Film Festival (OAFF) has significantly contributed to the city’s reputation in the film industry. Over the years, the festival has become a venue for both well-known and new filmmakers to present their work to an international audience. By focusing on premieres and distinctive storytelling, OAFF has built a community that values the subtleties of Asian cultures and encourages cross-cultural dialogue and collaboration.

Osaka’s support for the arts is also evident in its investment in modern screening venues and its involvement with local and international film communities. The city’s film culture is further enhanced by its educational institutions, which offer programs in film studies and production, helping to develop future filmmakers.

Osaka’s role as a hub for Asian cinema is rooted in its ability to combine tradition with modernity, providing a space where filmmakers can explore new stories and innovate in storytelling. The city’s commitment to promoting Asian cinema ensures its continued importance in the global film scene.

Steal the Legendary Jewel "Jet-Black Diamond" – Real Infiltration Game (Starting Friday, March 14th)

A new, fully interactive gaming event titled "Real Infiltration Game" is coming to Hirakata Park, located at 1-1 Hirakata Koencho, Hirakata City, Osaka Prefecture. The event, which has no currently scheduled end date, transforms the entirety of Hirakata Park into the setting for a large-scale infiltration mission, beginning on Friday, March 14th, 2025.

Participants will take on the roles of newly recruited spies belonging to a secretive organization. The spies’ objective is singular: to seize the legendary "Jet-Black Diamond" that is stored somewhere within the park.

A Park-Wide Challenge

The challenge is made more difficult by the presence of enemy agents. These adversaries, virtually indistinguishable from regular park visitors, will actively work to impede participants at every turn. This creates a pervasive sense of tension and uncertainty, as players will never know for sure who they can trust, or from where the next challenge might emerge.

The experience is designed to be physically engaging, requiring participants to use their entire bodies to overcome a variety of missions.

What exactly is a "Real Infiltration Game"?

"Real Infiltration Game" – a registered trademark of SCRAP Co., Ltd. – is a type of hands-on, interactive event. Participants are not merely observers; they become active agents within a carefully constructed scenario. In this case, the goal is to infiltrate a designated area and successfully complete a specific mission.

Success requires a combination of stealth, problem-solving, and physical agility. Players must gather crucial information while simultaneously avoiding detection by enemy agents, and they must also overcome a series of physical challenges that demand full-body engagement.

Event Details

• Event Period: March 14, 2025 (Friday) – Indefinite
• Event Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:00 PM)
• Location: Hirakata Park (1-1 Hirakata Koencho, Hirakata City, Osaka Prefecture)
• Pricing:
  • General Ticket:
    • Solo Ticket: Starting at 5,000 yen
    • Pair Ticket: Starting at 7,200 yen
    • Trio Ticket: Starting at 9,600 yen
  • Family Ticket:
    • Pair Ticket: Starting at 6,400 yen
    • Trio Ticket: Starting at 8,100 yen
• Inquiries: 03-5341-4570
• Website: https://realstealthgame.jp/s/hirapa2025/

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What is Hirakata Park?

Hirakata Park is an amusement park in Hirakata, Osaka, Japan, established in 1910. As one of the country’s oldest amusement parks, it offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions for all ages. The park combines nostalgic rides with contemporary entertainment in a pleasant setting.

Covering a large area, Hirakata Park includes roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly amusements. A notable feature is the Ferris wheel, offering views of the surrounding area. The park also has landscaped gardens and hosts seasonal events like cherry blossom festivals and winter illuminations, attracting visitors year-round.

Beyond rides, Hirakata Park provides dining options and souvenir shops, making it suitable for a full day of entertainment. Its proximity to Osaka makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. With its history and variety of attractions, Hirakata Park remains a key part of the region’s entertainment scene.