Savor Hokkaido’s Finest: A Year-End Gourmet Extravaganza in Ueno!

66 Hokkaido Vendors Bring Mega-Sized Treats and Bargains to Tokyo!

Get ready to indulge in the best of Hokkaido’s culinary scene! From December 12th to 30th, 2024, Ueno’s Matsuzakaya Department Store will host a special Hokkaido Product Fair, featuring 66 vendors—6 of which are making their debut appearance. Prepare for 19 days of delicious discoveries, perfect for elevating your year-end celebrations.

New and Exclusive Dishes to Watch For:

• Sapporo <Men Shōki>’s Hakodate True Kelp Foam Chicken White Soup Truffle-Scented EsCon Special (¥1,480): This popular ramen shop, known for its charismatic owner and award-winning recipes, presents a creamy, kelp-infused chicken white soup ramen—exclusive to this event! Don’t miss this chance to try something you won’t find at their Sapporo branch.
• Sapporo <Senichi Sawada Shoten>’s Manager’s Special Big Catch Set Meal (¥2,480): This luxurious set features a manager-selected extra-large Atka mackerel, seasonal Atka mackerel ponzu, assorted sashimi with live scallops, all-you-can-eat Yumepirika rice, and Hokkaido pork miso soup. (Limited to 50 servings per day)
• Sapporo <Senichi Sawada Shoten>’s Sapporo Central Wholesale Market Direct Delivery Live Fish All-Star Big Catch Bowl (¥3,280): Fresh scallops, turban shells, and shrimp piled high in a visually stunning bowl. (Limited to 50 servings per day)

Hokkaido Sweets:

Indulge your sweet tooth with these delightful treats:

• Sapporo <ISHIYA>’s Shiroi Koibito Roll Cake (Frozen, ¥2,160): (Limited to 108 pieces per day, up to 2 per person)
• Asahikawa <UMEYA>’s Black Cheesecake (Frozen, ¥2,494):
• Kitahiroshima <Emina Donuts>’s Hokkaido Fresh Doughnuts (¥432): (Available December 12th-21st)
• Sapporo <Meme>’s Honey Sweet Potato Beni-Tenshi (¥270):

Winter Luxury Bento Festival:

Experience mega-sized portions and premium ingredients:

• Sapporo <Sushi Ryuugi>’s Hokkaido Seared Scallops and Extra-Large Red King Crab with Botan Shrimp Comparison Premium Seafood Bento (¥3,780): Topped with extra-large red king crab, sweet Botan shrimp, and more! (Limited to 30 servings per day)
• Sapporo <Hachiken-en>’s Saroma Wagyu × Saroma Pork × Grilled Scallops 3-Type Mega-Size Bento (¥3,510): Featuring champion Saroma Wagyu beef and rare Saroma pork.
• Obihiro <Kimiya>’s Five-Type Beef Bento (¥2,980): Aged beef, fillet, and kainomi cuts with sausage and scallops. (Limited to 50 servings per day)
• Sapporo <Charcoal Grill Izakaya Honoo>’s Mega Cheese Tsukune (¥600/skewer, ¥1,000/2 skewers): Three times the normal size!
• Sapporo <Sapporo Ramen Musashi>’s Hokkaido Roasted Pork 3-Type Pork Bento (¥1,998):
• Sapporo <Shion>’s Japan’s No.1 Catch Bento (¥3,240):
• Yoichi <Uni Specialty Shop Seiichiya>’s Half-Dried Sea Urchin & Seared Sea Urchin Comparison Bento (¥2,592):
• Shakotan <Umi no Ya>’s Akadama Scallops and Botan Shrimp Luxurious 11-Type Assortment (¥3,402): (Limited to 50 servings per day)

Affordable Luxury Bento Boxes (¥1,080):

Daily limited quantities available from 10:00 AM:

• Obihiro <Kimiya>’s Three-Type Beef Bento: (Limited to 80 servings per day)
• Yoichi <Uni Specialty Shop Seiichiya>’s Half-Dried Sea Urchin Rice Half: (Limited to 80 servings per day)

Hachiken-en, Sushi Ryuugi, Shion (all Sapporo), and Wanya (Hakodate – from 3:00 PM daily) will also offer limited quantities of ¥1,080 bento boxes. (Limited to 80 servings per day per shop, up to 2 per person per brand)

Seafood Bargains:

Don’t miss the special deals on imperfect but equally delicious seafood items:

• Kitami <Abashiri Suisan>’s Boiled Snow Crab Legs (Frozen, 1kg, ¥3,500): Due to blemishes/irregular shapes

Christmas and New Year’s Treats:

• Sapporo <Pullman Bakery>’s Stollen (¥2,500): (Limited to 20 loaves per day, Available December 12th-21st)
• Otaru <Wakadori Jidai Naruto>’s Half Roasted Young Chicken (¥1,180):
• Sapporo <Kita Maruyama Marche>’s Boiled Hairy Crab (Frozen, 570g, ¥8,640):
• Hakodate <Yamacho Hasegawa Shoten>’s Hokkaido Salmon Roe Soy Sauce Marinated (¥2,500/100g):

More Hokkaido Favorites:

Find popular brands like <Snaffles>, <Rokkatei>, <Royce>, and <POTATO FARM>.

All prices include tax.

Event Details:

• Location: Matsuzakaya Ueno Store 6th Floor Event Space (Link to Matsuzakaya Ueno Store)
• Nearest Stations: Ueno-hirokoji Station, Okachimachi Station, Ueno-okachimachi Station
• Address: 〒110-8503 Tokyo, Taito-ku, Ueno 3-29-5 (Google Maps Link)
• Dates: December 12th (Thursday) – December 30th (Monday), 2024
• Time: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Closes at 5:00 PM on the last day)
• Official Website: Scheduled to be published on December 6th at 10:00 AM

Published content may be subject to change. Please check the venue’s or organizer’s official website for the latest information.

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What makes Hokkaido’s food products distinctive from other Japanese regions?

Hokkaido’s food products stand out due to the region’s unique climate, rich natural resources, and agricultural practices that contribute to the exceptional quality and flavor of its produce. Known as Japan’s breadbasket, Hokkaido benefits from a colder climate, which is ideal for growing certain crops and raising livestock. This results in fresh, high-quality dairy products, including milk, cheese, and butter, that are renowned throughout Japan.

The pristine waters surrounding Hokkaido also contribute to its renowned seafood offerings. The local fishing industry supplies some of the freshest and most diverse seafood, from succulent crabs and salmon to sea urchins and scallops, which are highly prized for their taste and texture.

Additionally, Hokkaido’s fertile volcanic soil supports the cultivation of premium produce such as potatoes, corn, and melons. These agricultural products are celebrated for their sweetness and tenderness, making them popular not only in local markets but also across the nation.

The culmination of these factors, combined with Hokkaido’s dedication to traditional craftsmanship and innovative food processing techniques, results in an array of distinctive regional delicacies that capture the essence of Japan’s northernmost island.

Share the Panda-monium This Holiday Season at Matsuzakaya Ueno!

Celebrate a Panda-ful Holiday with Gifts from the Heart!

This holiday season, get ready for a heartwarming celebration at Matsuzakaya Ueno store, featuring everyone’s favorite Ueno Panda Family! With the theme "GIFTS FROM THE HEART," this year’s "HAPPY PANDAFUL HOLIDAYS" event is packed with adorable panda-themed treats, gifts, and activities centered around the beloved giant pandas: Xiao Xiao, Lei Lei, Ri Ri, Shin Shin, and Xiang Xiang. From a heartwarming photo exhibition to delicious panda-shaped treats, there’s something for every panda enthusiast to enjoy. So, come join the panda-monium and discover the perfect gifts for your loved ones!

Share Your Panda Memories:

• Everyone’s Panda Photo Exhibition: Relive cherished moments with our adorable pandas at the "Everyone’s Panda Photo Exhibition." Browse through 130 heartwarming photos submitted by fellow panda lovers on X, and share in the collective adoration for these cuddly creatures.
  • Location: 2nd floor, in front of 〈Cafe comme ca〉

Indulge in Panda-licious Treats:

• 〈Cafe comme ca〉: Savor the delightful Panda Christmas Shortcake (¥1,700). This limited-time treat features adorable panda faces crafted from marshmallows, nestled amongst fresh strawberries, pears, and holly-shaped matcha chocolate. Available until December 20th.
• 〈Kissa Tricolore〉: Sip on the festive Christmas Cream Soda (¥1,000) and let the holiday cheer fill you.
• 〈Panda Sabo by Ginza Seigetsu-do〉: Indulge in the Panda Christmas Parfait (¥1,540), a charming Japanese-style parfait with a festive twist.
• 〈Hokushin Sushi〉: Feast on the Twin Panda Seafood Bara-Chirashi (¥1,580), a gorgeous assortment of fresh seafood topped with adorable twin panda decorations. Limited to 10 servings per day.
• 〈Bunmeido〉: Take home the Panda Castella Christmas (¥1,296), a special edition castella cake adorned with cute panda and wreath designs. Available while supplies last.

Exclusive Panda Merchandise:

• Ueno Panda Family Suitcase: Travel in style with our exclusive Ueno Panda Family Suitcase. Featuring all five beloved pandas, this suitcase is the perfect companion for your next adventure. Available in white or black (H54×W37×D23cm, external dimensions including casters and handle) for ¥30,250 each. Order yours online between November 27th (10:00 AM) and December 10th (11:59 PM). Limited to 75 suitcases per color.
• Upcycled Banner Eco-Bags: Win a limited-edition "Banner Eco-bag" made from upcycled in-store decoration banners! Spend ¥3,300 or more (including tax) on a single receipt at participating stores, and enter the lottery for a chance to win one of 25 eco-bags. The application period runs from November 27th (10:00 AM) to December 25th (11:59 PM), with delivery expected around late February 2025. See the official website for details and application instructions. Receipts cannot be combined, and resale is prohibited.

Give Back to Panda Conservation:

• Share Suma Receipt Charity: Support giant panda conservation efforts by simply dropping your "Share Suma Receipt" into the designated box in front of 〈Cafe comme ca〉 on the 2nd floor. For every receipt, ¥50 will be donated to the "Giant Panda Conservation Support Fund" (up to a total donation of ¥300,000).

Festive Decorations and Activities:

• Panda-fied Decorations: Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with panda-themed decorations throughout the store, from outdoor banners to the north entrance show window and beyond.
• Panda Stamp Rally: Embark on a fun-filled stamp rally and collect stamps from 5 designated locations within the store to complete a special 〈Crystal Art〉 panda design. Available daily until 6:30 PM, while supplies last (limited to one per person).
• Panda Jishin Fes: Discover adorable panda-themed merchandise and heartwarming panda photos at the "Panda Jishin Fes," held from November 27th to December 3rd at the 1st-floor North Entrance Arcade.

Event Details:

• Venue: Matsuzakaya Ueno Store (Ueno-hirokoji Station, Okachimachi Station, Ueno-okachimachi Station)
• Address: 3-29-5 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-8503 MAP
• Dates: November 27th – December 25th, 2024
• Time: Store operating hours
• Website: https://www.matsuzakaya.co.jp/ueno/happy_holidays/

Please note that event details are subject to change. For the latest information, visit the official website.

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What is Matsuzakaya Ueno?

Matsuzakaya Ueno is a prominent department store located in the vibrant Ueno district of Tokyo, Japan. Part of the historic Matsuzakaya chain, it has long been a favorite shopping destination for locals and tourists alike. Renowned for its diverse range of high-quality products, Matsuzakaya Ueno offers everything from luxury fashion brands and cosmetics to home goods and gourmet foods. The department store is also known for its dedication to exemplary customer service and creating a welcoming shopping environment. This season, Matsuzakaya Ueno is celebrating the Happy Pandaful Holidays initiative, where shoppers can find unique holiday gifts and engage with efforts to support panda conservation, blending tradition with a cause-driven shopping experience.

Ring in 2025 with Casino Glamour at The Westin Tokyo! 🥂

Casino Countdown 2024-2025: A Unique New Year’s Eve in Ebisu

Want to experience the thrill of Vegas right here in Tokyo? This New Year’s Eve, The Westin Hotel Tokyo is transforming its first-floor lobby lounge, "The Lounge," into a dazzling, one-night-only casino experience. 🎉 Get ready for Casino Countdown 2024-2025!

This isn’t your average New Year’s Eve party. Experience the authentic thrill of a casino with real dealers, and try your hand at five exciting games: Poker, Double Roulette, Mini Baccarat, Blackjack, and Big Six. Everyone walks away with a participation prize, and the more chips you collect, the more luxurious the prizes become!

As the clock ticks down to the new year, enjoy the smooth jazz vocals of Aimee Blackschleger, accompanied by a live band. Indulge in delectable "Luxury Bites" hors d’oeuvres and free-flowing Moët & Chandon champagne. For a truly VIP experience, opt for a seated plan and savor the exclusive "Luxury Bites Plate" menu crafted by the executive chef.

Ready for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration? Join us at The Westin Tokyo for a night of glitz, glamour, and games.

What Awaits You:

• Amusement Casino: Roulette, Poker, Blackjack, Big Six, and Mini Baccarat with real dealers.
• Live Music: Jazzy tunes by Aimee Blackschleger (Vo) with a live band (bass, guitar, and drums).
• Gourmet Delights: "Luxury Bites" hors d’oeuvres, "Luxury Bites Plate" (seated plan), and free-flowing Moët & Chandon champagne.
• Luxury Prizes: Win big with your casino chips!

Event Details:

• Venue: Lobby Lounge "The Lounge" & Executive Bar "The Bar" (1F), Westin Hotel Tokyo
• Nearest Station: Ebisu Station
• Address: 〒153-8580 Tokyo, Meguro-ku, Mita 1-4-1, within Ebisu Garden Place Map
• Date: December 31, 2024 (Tuesday)
• Time: Doors Open: 9:30 PM, Event Starts: 10:00 PM, Close: 12:30 AM

Ticket Options:

• Standing Plan: ￥16,000～ per person (tax and service charge included). Includes Luxury Bites, dry snacks, and a 120-minute free flow of Moët & Chandon champagne, red/white wine, beer, cocktails, and soft drinks.
• Seated Plan (The Bar): ￥108,000～ per group (up to 4 people, tax and service charge included). Includes Luxury Bites Plate, dry snacks, a bottle of Dom Pérignon, and a 120-minute free flow of Moët & Chandon champagne, red/white wine, beer, cocktails, and soft drinks.
• Seated Plan (The Lounge): ￥118,000～ per group (up to 5 people, tax and service charge included). Includes Luxury Bites Plate, dry snacks, a bottle of Dom Pérignon, and a 120-minute free flow of Moët & Chandon champagne, red/white wine, beer, cocktails, and soft drinks.

Book Your Spot: Westin Hotel Tokyo Reservations

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

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What is The Westin Tokyo?

The Westin Tokyo is a luxurious hotel situated in the vibrant and sophisticated Ebisu district of Tokyo, Japan. Renowned for its exceptional hospitality and world-class amenities, the hotel offers guests a serene and rejuvenating retreat in the heart of the bustling city. The Westin Tokyo seamlessly blends classic European elegance with modern comfort, creating an inviting atmosphere that caters to both business and leisure travelers.

Guests can indulge in beautifully appointed rooms and suites, each designed with plush furnishings and thoughtful details to ensure a restful stay. The hotel features an array of dining options, from upscale restaurants serving international and local cuisines to cozy lounges perfect for relaxing with a drink. In keeping with the Westin brand’s emphasis on wellness, the hotel offers a fully equipped fitness studio, spa facilities, and wellness-inspired programs to invigorate and refresh guests during their stay.

The Westin Tokyo is also well-equipped for hosting events, offering versatile meeting spaces and banquet halls that can accommodate everything from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. Whether exploring the city’s cultural landmarks, enjoying a shopping spree, or attending business meetings, The Westin Tokyo provides a luxurious home base, exemplifying the hospitality and service excellence that guests have come to expect from the Westin brand.

Ring in 2025 at the Royal Park Canvas Ginza Corridor’s Countdown Party 🎉

Get ready to welcome 2025 with a vibrant New Year’s Eve celebration at the stylish CANVAS LOUNGE produced by P.C.M., located within THE ROYAL PARK CANVAS GINZA CORRIDOR. This year’s party promises an electrifying blend of music, visuals, and traditional Japanese festivities.

What Awaits You This New Year’s Eve

This isn’t just another countdown party; we’re turning up the volume with a special DJ set and a traditional Japanese New Year’s experience:

• COUNTDOWN SPECIAL DJ LIVE: Groove into the new year with electrifying beats by LAVA, the sound producer of "CANVAS LOUNGE produced by P.C.M.", DJ MAHARAJA, and mesmerizing visuals by VJ Joe Asano. Starting at 9:00 PM, this high-energy performance will keep you dancing until the clock strikes midnight.

• Savor the Tradition: Enjoy a comforting bowl of New Year’s Eve soba noodles for just ¥700. This traditional Japanese dish is believed to bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year.

• Kagami-Biraki Ceremony: Witness the exciting Kagami-Biraki (sake barrel opening ceremony) at 11:00 PM. Partake in this time-honored tradition and enjoy complimentary sake to toast the arrival of 2025 with fellow partygoers.

Event Details

• Venue: THE ROYAL PARK CANVAS GINZA CORRIDOR 2F "CANVAS LOUNGE produced by P.C.M."
  THE ROYAL PARK CANVAS GINZA CORRIDOR
• Address: 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo-ku, Ginza 6-2-11
  MAP
• Nearest Stations: Ginza, Hibiya, Yurakucho, and Shimbashi Stations
• Date: December 31, 2024 (Tuesday) – January 1, 2025 (Wednesday/Holiday)
• Time: 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM
• Entrance Fee: Free!
• Contact: CANVAS LOUNGE produced by P.C.M. 03-3573-8229
• Official Website: THE ROYAL PARK CANVAS GINZA CORRIDOR COUNTDOWN PARTY

Important Note: Event details are subject to change. Please refer to the official website for the latest information.

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What is Royal Park Canvas Ginza Corridor?

Royal Park Canvas Ginza Corridor is a vibrant and contemporary hotel located in the heart of Tokyo’s bustling Ginza district. Known for its innovative design and dynamic atmosphere, the hotel offers a unique blend of modern luxury and traditional Japanese hospitality. Acting as both a comfortable retreat and a cultural hub, Royal Park Canvas Ginza Corridor provides guests with an immersive experience, featuring stylish accommodations, interactive communal spaces, and an array of dining options that highlight local and international cuisines. This makes it the perfect venue for hosting exciting events like the New Year’s Eve Countdown Party, where modern entertainment meets time-honored Japanese festivities. Its strategic location also ensures guests easy access to Ginza’s world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment, creating a memorable stay in one of Tokyo’s most iconic neighborhoods.

Indulge in a Whimsical Feast of Fire and Flavors at Cirque du Grill & Strawberry🍓

A Unique Meat-and-Strawberry Afternoon Tea Experience at the Hilton Tokyo

Get ready for a truly unique culinary adventure! The Hilton Tokyo presents "Cirque du Grill & Strawberry," an afternoon tea experience unlike any other. Imagine a circus-themed wagon arriving tableside, laden with savory grilled meats, followed by a decadent all-you-can-eat strawberry sweets buffet. This isn’t your typical afternoon tea – it’s a feast for the senses.

Forget dainty finger sandwiches. At Cirque du Grill & Strawberry, the focus is on flavorful grilled meats. The chefs at the grill counter prepare four tantalizing options over a cherry wood fire:

• Porchetta Chimichurri Sauce: Crispy-skinned pork with a juicy, tender interior, enhanced by a vibrant chimichurri sauce.
• Steak: Savor the smoky aroma and juicy goodness of perfectly grilled steak.
• Spicy Sausage: Smoked with an intriguing blend of spices like cardamom and cayenne pepper.
• Buttermilk Chicken Wings: Tossed in the Metropolitan Grill’s signature BBQ sauce.

But the experience doesn’t stop there. Your savory journey begins with appetizers like a refreshing "Strawberry Mixed Salad" with a spiced nut dressing, a "Salmon and Avocado Mousse Tart," and "The Amazing Original Slider," a mini version of the Metropolitan Grill’s famous burger.

After indulging in the savory delights, step into the whimsical "Sweets Room" for an all-you-can-eat extravaganza of 10 different strawberry sweets. This isn’t just a dessert course; it’s a full-blown strawberry celebration! From the classic "Strawberry Tart" to the "Strawberry-Flavored White Chocolate Mousse," "Strawberry Rare Cheesecake," and "Acai and Strawberry Oat Milk Shake," there’s a strawberry treat to satisfy every craving.

Complement your feast with a selection of 14 beverages, including premium teas from the NY-based luxury brand, Tea Forte.

Whether you’re a dessert aficionado, a meat lover, or simply seeking a memorable and Instagram-worthy experience, Cirque du Grill & Strawberry offers a unique twist on traditional afternoon tea. Perfect for a stylish afternoon, a late lunch, a get-together with friends, or a romantic date.

Menu Highlights:

Sides:

• The Amazing Original Slider
• Pulled Pork Dog
• Strawberry Mixed Salad
• Salmon and Avocado Mousse Tart

Grill:

• Porchetta Chimichurri Sauce
• Steak
• Spicy Sausage
• Buttermilk Chicken Wings

Dessert:

• Strawberry Tart
• Strawberry Rare Cheesecake + 8 other delightful varieties (Selection may vary daily)

Event Details:

• Venue: Hilton Tokyo
• Nearest Stations: Nishi-Shinjuku (3-min walk), Tochomae (3-min walk), Shinjuku Nishiguchi (10-min walk)
• Address: 6-6-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 〒160-0023 Map
• Dates: December 27, 2024 – Mid-April 2025
• Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM (2-hour limit)
• Price: ¥6,400 per person (¥6,900 on weekends and holidays) Includes tax and service charge
• Official Website: https://tokyo.hiltonjapan.co.jp/restaurants/lp/afternoontea-metropolitangrill-strawberry

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

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What is a Japanese strawberry afternoon tea?

A Japanese strawberry afternoon tea is a delightful culinary experience that combines the traditional British afternoon tea concept with a distinct Japanese twist, centering around the country’s celebrated strawberries. These teas are typically held during Japan’s peak strawberry season, offering an array of sweet and savory treats that highlight the fruit’s natural sweetness and vibrant flavor.

Expect elegantly presented tiers of confections and pastries, such as strawberry shortcakes, tarts, éclairs, and macarons, each meticulously crafted to showcase the quality and taste of Japanese strawberries. Alongside these sweets, you might find savory bites like bite-sized sandwiches, scones with strawberry jam, and other fusion delicacies that incorporate local ingredients and flavors.

In addition to the delightful array of foods, a Japanese strawberry afternoon tea often features a selection of premium teas, from classic Japanese green teas to imported black teas, perfectly paired to complement the strawberry-focused menu. The experience is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight, with beautiful presentation that reflects Japan’s attention to detail and appreciation for aesthetics.

Overall, a Japanese strawberry afternoon tea offers a unique opportunity to indulge in the luxurious simplicity of Japan’s prized strawberries, set within a sophisticated, often luxurious environment that invites relaxation and enjoyment.