Sparkling Clover Cafe: A Heisei Era Throwback in the Heart of Shibuya

Immerse Yourself in the Nostalgic World of Heisei-Era Girls at the Limited-Time "KIRAKIRA CLOVER CAFE" Pop-Up

For a limited time, visitors to Shibuya can step back in time and experience the charming world of Heisei-era girls at the "KIRAKIRA CLOVER CAFE" pop-up, located within the IMADA KITCHEN at SHIBUYA109. This unique cafe, open from January 15th to February 24th, 2025, offers a delightful menu and atmosphere inspired by the trends and aesthetics that defined a generation.

IMADA KITCHEN, known for showcasing innovative and yet-to-be-released culinary creations, has chosen a "clover" motif for this special event. The clover, a symbol that has recently gained traction and was even nominated in the 2025 Products/Things Trend Forecast by "SHIBUYA109 lab.", serves as the centerpiece of the cafe’s offerings. The menu and overall ambiance have been curated under the supervision of "Heisei Joshi ♡ Megu," a popular video creator with over 300,000 TikTok followers, whose content resonates with both those who lived through the Heisei era and Gen Z, who find a fresh appeal in its nostalgic charm.

A Menu That Transports You Back in Time

The "KIRAKIRA CLOVER CAFE" menu features four distinct items, each thoughtfully designed to evoke the spirit of the Heisei era:

• Fuwa×02 Matcha Latte (Fluffy Matcha Latte): Priced at 550 yen, this beverage features a rich Uji matcha base topped with a cloud-like layer of fluffy cream. A delicate clover design, artfully rendered with matcha powder, adds a final touch of whimsy.
• Shuwa×02 Cream Soda (Bubbly Cream Soda): Also available for 550 yen, this classic cream soda is elevated with the addition of clover-shaped jelly toppings, reminiscent of the "tile stickers" that were a popular trend during the Heisei era.
• Puchi×02 Pancakes (Mini Pancakes): For 650 yen, guests can indulge in a plate of chewy pancakes, each branded with a charming clover mark. The pancakes are served with a delectable combination of cream cheese sauce and chocolate spread.
• Run×02 Soft Serve Ice Cream (Happy Soft Serve Ice Cream): This colorful treat, priced at 550 yen, features soft serve ice cream coated in a vibrant array of sprinkles and crowned with a clover made of monaka (wafers). Guests can choose from three flavors: vanilla, matcha, or a mix of both.

It is worth noting that all prices include tax, and the listed ingredients represent only a portion of the components used in each menu item. The images provided are for illustrative purposes.

More Than Just a Meal: An Immersive Heisei Experience

Beyond the delectable menu, the "KIRAKIRA CLOVER CAFE" offers an immersive experience that extends to the very details of its presentation. Each item incorporates elements like the aforementioned "tile sticker" inspired jelly and monaka clovers, recreating the joyful atmosphere of the Heisei era.

As an added touch, the cafe provides original stickers and profile notebooks as novelties – items that were once ubiquitous among the Heisei generation and are sure to elicit a fond, "Nostalgic!" from those who remember them. The cafe’s interior further enhances the experience, featuring Heisei-style stationery, toys, and other goods, effectively transporting visitors to a bygone era.

Essential Information for Your Visit

• Location: IMADA KITCHEN, SHIBUYA109, Basement 2nd floor, inside "MOG MOG STAND"
• Nearest Station: Shibuya Station
• Address: Tokyo, Shibuya-ku, Dogenzaka 2-29-1 SHIBUYA109 Basement 2nd floor (MAP)
• Event Period: January 15th, 2025 (Wednesday) – February 24th, 2025 (Monday, Holiday)
• Official Website: https://imada-kitchen.jp/news/20250110_01.php

Please note that the published content may be subject to change. It is recommended to check the official website of the venue or organizer for the most up-to-date information.

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Whether you’re a Heisei-era veteran seeking a nostalgic trip down memory lane or a member of Gen Z curious about the trends of a previous generation, the "KIRAKIRA CLOVER CAFE" offers a unique and engaging experience. Don’t miss this opportunity to savor the flavors and atmosphere of a bygone era, right in the heart of modern-day Shibuya.

What is SHIBUYA109?

SHIBUYA109 is a well-known shopping mall in Shibuya, Tokyo, recognized for its influence on fashion trends. Opened in 1979, it has become a notable landmark in Japan’s youth fashion scene. The building’s distinctive cylindrical design and prominent signage make it a popular meeting point and a destination for both locals and tourists.

Primarily targeting young women, SHIBUYA109 features a variety of boutiques and stores offering the latest in Japanese fashion, accessories, and beauty products. The mall is known for its role in setting fashion trends and supporting emerging designers and brands. It has significantly impacted Tokyo’s fashion landscape over the years.

In addition to shopping, SHIBUYA109 serves as a cultural venue, hosting events, pop-up shops, and collaborations with brands and artists. Its lively atmosphere and changing offerings contribute to Shibuya’s dynamic urban environment, drawing fashion enthusiasts from around the globe.

Suica Penguin Strawberry Sweets Buffet

Indulge in a Unique, Limited-Edition Strawberry-Themed Extravaganza at Hotel Metropolitan

The highly anticipated annual Suica Penguin Strawberry Sweets Buffet returns to the Hotel Metropolitan in Ikebukuro, Tokyo. This year’s event promises an array of approximately 20 different hotel-made sweets, each meticulously crafted to showcase the versatility of strawberries. Guests can expect to find familiar favorites alongside innovative new creations, ensuring a delightful experience for both returning attendees and newcomers.

Among the many delectable offerings are the ever-popular strawberry tart, generously adorned with fresh, ripe strawberries, and the decadent strawberry and cherry Black Forest cake. Other highlights include a visually stunning strawberry naked cake, a delicate sakura weekend cake, and a classic strawberry Paris-Brest. For those seeking more adventurous flavors, the buffet features strawberry canelé, a unique strawberry and rhubarb fruit gratin, and a sophisticated strawberry and pistachio fraisier cake. The selection is further enhanced by the inclusion of fresh strawberry Mont Blanc, a rich strawberry flan, and even strawberry churros.

What truly sets this buffet apart is the availability of limited-edition Suica Penguin-themed sweets. These adorable treats, featuring the beloved penguin mascot of the Suica transit card, are not typically sold in the hotel’s cake shop, making this a rare opportunity to savor them. This year, the Suica Penguin macarons will boast a new flavor profile, combining orange-flavored black tea cream with a tangy strawberry confiture. The Suica Penguin glass sweets will feature a luxurious ruby chocolate milk pudding complemented by a refreshing strawberry jelly.

In addition to the abundance of sweets, the buffet also offers a selection of light savory options, such as sandwiches, soup, and salad, providing a welcome balance to the sugary indulgence. Each adult guest will also receive a complimentary strawberry mocktail, adding a touch of elegance to the experience.

Suica Penguin Mini Strawberry Parfait

As a special treat, each attendee will be presented with a complimentary Suica Penguin Mini Strawberry Parfait. This charming dessert features a base of cranberry jelly, studded with blueberries and raspberries, layered with a light strawberry mousse, and topped with fresh strawberries, strawberry cream, and a delicate strawberry macaron.

Essential Information for Your Visit

• Location: Hotel Metropolitan, Ikebukuro Station
• Address: 1-6-1 Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 171-8505 (MAP)
• Venue: Banquet Hall Sakura, 4th Floor
• Event Dates: March 8th (Saturday) – March 9th (Sunday), 2025
• Session Times: Two sessions daily, 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM, each lasting 100 minutes
• Reservations: Online reservations open at 12:00 PM on February 5th (Wednesday), 2025.
• Pricing:
  • Adults: 8,000 yen
  • Elementary School Students: 3,500 yen
  • Children aged 4-6: 1,500 yen (Please note that this price does not include the special dessert. If desired, the elementary school student price will apply.)
• Note: Prices include consumption tax and a 13% service charge.
• Cancellation Policy: A 50% cancellation fee applies from 7 days prior to the event, increasing to 100% from 3 days prior.
• Inquiries: Hotel Metropolitan (direct line): 03-3980-7601
• Official Website: https://ikebukuro.metropolitan.jp/banquet/plan/plan/strawberry_sweets_buffet_2025.html

Please be aware that the availability of ingredients may necessitate changes to the menu. For the most up-to-date information, please consult the official website.

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What is Suica Penguin?

The Suica Penguin is the mascot of the Suica card, a widely used rechargeable contactless smart card for transportation and shopping in Japan. Created by JR East (East Japan Railway Company), the Suica card is a common tool for commuters and travelers in Tokyo and other regions. The penguin character, designed by illustrator Chiharu Sakazaki, is recognized for its simple design. It appears in promotional materials and merchandise, representing the convenience of the Suica card for travel and transactions. At the Hotel Metropolitan’s 2025 Suica Penguin Strawberry Sweets Buffet, the character is featured in a selection of themed treats that highlight both the penguin and strawberry flavors.

SNOWS Pop-Up Shop: A Hokkaido Winter Wonderland in the Heart of Tokyo

Indulge in Limited-Edition Valentine’s Treats at the Daimaru Tokyo Store

The celebrated winter-limited confectioner SNOWS is making a special appearance at the Daimaru Tokyo Store, bringing a taste of Hokkaido’s winter magic to the bustling metropolis. This year, the pop-up shop has relocated to the first-floor event space, a move that allows for a more expansive product lineup and a more immersive brand experience. This is a significant upgrade from last year’s event, providing ample space for customers to explore the world of SNOWS in a relaxed setting.

SNOWS, a brand synonymous with the delicate flavors of Hokkaido’s winter, is renowned for its commitment to using only the highest quality ingredients. This dedication to excellence is why their products are available exclusively during the winter months, making them a truly seasonal delight. Without a permanent retail location, SNOWS has cultivated an air of exclusivity, with its online shop often selling out within minutes of opening each morning. This pop-up store, therefore, presents a rare opportunity to acquire these coveted treats.

A Symphony of Flavors: New and Classic Delights

The Daimaru Tokyo Store pop-up will feature a selection of SNOWS’ signature confections alongside exciting new Valentine’s Day limited-edition items. Among the new offerings is "Snowball Gorori," a fresh truffle almond chocolate that promises a trifecta of textures: crispy, fluffy, and melty. Each box contains five pieces and is priced at 1,998 yen. Another newcomer is the "Mori no Ki Aka" (Red Forest Tree), a crispy strawberry chocolate infused with freeze-dried strawberries from Hokkaido, priced at 1,404 yen for eight pieces.

Returning favorites include "Snow Sand," a delicate treat featuring smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fresh chocolate sandwiched between crispy langue de chat cookies. A Valentine’s Day limited edition tin containing six pieces (three each of white and black chocolate) is available for 1,782 yen. For those seeking variety, a box of five pieces (white/black) is priced at 1,053 yen each, while a larger box of 16 pieces (eight each of white and black) is available for 3,645 yen.

Another classic, "Snowball," is a "double fresh" sweet that encapsulates the essence of Hokkaido’s winter milk. Fresh Hokkaido cream is enveloped in fresh chocolate, creating a truffle with a rich, sweet aroma. A box of nine pieces is priced at 1,512 yen.

For those who prefer a crunchier experience, "Snow Chips" offer a unique melt-in-your-mouth texture reminiscent of powdered snow, combined with a rich cacao flavor. A box containing four bags is priced at 1,296 yen.

Finally, "Mori no Ki Kuro" (Black Forest Tree) is a crispy milk chocolate featuring thinly baked crepe pieces, roasted almonds, and pie crust. A box of eight pieces is priced at 1,188 yen.

Event Details: Don’t Miss Out!

The SNOWS pop-up shop will be open at the Daimaru Tokyo Store from January 22nd to February 14th, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily. The store is conveniently located at the first-floor event space.

Venue: Daimaru Tokyo Store

Address: 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-6701 (MAP)

Nearest Stations: Tokyo Station, Nihonbashi Station

Event Period: January 22nd (Wednesday) – February 14th (Friday), 2025

Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

For further details, please refer to the Daimaru Tokyo Store official website.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change. It is recommended to check the official website of the venue or organizer for the most up-to-date information.

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What is Daimaru Tokyo?

Daimaru Tokyo is a department store located in central Tokyo, Japan, near Tokyo Station. It offers a variety of products, including fashion, beauty, gourmet foods, and home goods. The store is known for its customer service and selection of brands. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. During special occasions, Daimaru Tokyo hosts events and features limited-edition products, such as treats from Hokkaido, offering a shopping experience that combines tradition and modernity.

Daimaru Umeda Valentine’s Day 2025: "CHOCOLAT PROMENADE" (January 22nd (Wed) – February 14th (Fri))

A Confectionery Journey Through Time and Taste

The 2025 Valentine’s Day event at Daimaru Umeda, titled "CHOCOLAT PROMENADE," promises a diverse and expansive collection of chocolates and sweets. Running from January 22nd (Wednesday) to February 14th (Friday), this event showcases a wide array of confections, from globally recognized chocolatiers to innovative creations and unique collaborations.

Image of Daimaru Umeda Valentine’s Day 2025

One of the event’s highlights is the Daimaru Umeda limited edition <06-CHOCOLAT>, a special assortment of six unique chocolates crafted by six chefs with shops in the Kansai region. Each chef has incorporated local ingredients into their creations, resulting in a truly distinctive collection. This limited edition offering is restricted to 500 boxes, adding an element of exclusivity for discerning chocolate enthusiasts.

The "CHOCOLAT PROMENADE" extends beyond chocolate, featuring a rich variety of baked goods and locally-renowned sweets. Each participating shop presents a selection of unique items, ensuring a diverse and satisfying experience for visitors.

Image of ganache sandwiches

Among the featured vendors is the <Honolulu Cookie Company>, offering baked goods made with premium ingredients and crafted with the spirit of Hawaiian hospitality. These treats will be available from January 29th (Wednesday) at the 1st floor East Event Space. Additionally, the popular patisserie <La Maison du R>, owned by video creator "Tokai On Air"’s Ryo, will make its Kansai debut. Known for its ganache sandwiches, <La Maison du R> will be featured at the 1st floor East Event Space starting February 3rd (Monday).

In anticipation of the Osaka-Kansai Expo, a special Valentine’s Day version of the cube-shaped yokan <Osaka ee YOKAN> will be available on the 15th floor. This unique confection is a collaborative creation by Kansai confectionery makers, designed as a new Osaka souvenir.

Event Details

• Event Period: January 22nd (Wednesday) – February 14th (Friday), 2025. Please note that the event period may vary depending on the floor and department.
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM. The event will close at 6:00 PM on the last day.
• Location: Daimaru Umeda, located at 3-1-1 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka. The event will be held across multiple locations within the department store:
  • 15th floor Event Space
  • 1st floor West Okashina Parade
  • 1st floor East Event Space
  • 1st floor East Gochipara Event
• Price: Admission is free.
• Contact: For general inquiries, please call 050-1780-0000.
• Website: Daimaru Umeda Valentine’s Day 2025

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What is Daimaru Umeda?

Daimaru Umeda is a department store located in the Umeda district of Osaka, Japan. It offers a range of high-end fashion, beauty products, home goods, and gourmet foods. Part of the Daimaru chain, the store has a history dating back to 1717, making it one of Japan’s oldest retail brands.

The Umeda location is noted for its architecture and atmosphere, drawing both locals and tourists. It acts as a cultural and commercial center in Osaka, blending traditional Japanese and contemporary international styles. The store hosts seasonal events and promotions, such as the annual Valentine’s Day CHOCOLAT PROMENADE, featuring a selection of chocolates and treats from around the world. Whether you’re interested in fashion or gourmet foods, Daimaru Umeda provides a notable shopping experience in Osaka.

Kintetsu’s Valentine’s Fair: "Valentine Chocolate Collection 2025" (January 17th – February 14th)

Kintetsu Department Store’s "Valentine Chocolate Collection 2025" will be held from January 17th to February 14th, 2025, at the Abeno Harukas Kintetsu Main Store in Osaka. This year’s fair promises a delectable array of chocolates from approximately 145 brands, carefully curated from both domestic and international sources, with 22 brands making their debut appearance. The overarching theme for this year’s event is "PARTY!", and a particular focus will be placed on a diverse selection of "Collaboration Chocolates" – a unique offering that one can expect from a department store of this caliber.

One such collaboration features a limited-edition product combining "Harukasumile" strawberries, cultivated in-house by Kintetsu, with the expertise of Yuki Nakamura, a chocolatier active in Australia. Another highlight is a collaborative sweet created by the combined efforts of <d:matcha Kyoto>, matcha-loving influencer <Matchalover>, and the young confectionery staff of Kintetsu Department Store. These limited-edition products will be available exclusively at the venue, providing a unique draw for attendees.

The "Choco Parfait Exhibition," a popular feature returning for its third year, will run from January 17th to January 28th. This exhibition will showcase a total of 12 parfaits, each designed with the concept of "a bouquet of flowers to give to customers." Due to the popularity of this exhibit, numbered tickets will be distributed daily, with a limit of 100 per product. Of particular note are the parfaits created by the students of the Tsuji Culinary Institute, offering a glimpse into the future of pastry artistry.

Furthermore, the event will cater to the growing popularity of "chocolate confectionery" by offering the largest selection to date, featuring 16 brands. This selection will include a variety of "chocolate confectionery" and "caramel chocolate," with some available as eat-in options at the venue.

Event Details:

• Event Period: January 17th (Friday) – February 14th (Friday), 2025
• Event Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Event times may vary depending on the floor and sales area. Please refer to the website below for detailed information.)
• Venue: Abeno Harukas Kintetsu Main Store Wing Building, 9th floor Event Hall and other locations (1-1-43 Abenosuji, Abeno-ku, Osaka City)
• Admission: Free
• Inquiries: 06-6624-1111 (Representative)
• Website: https://abenoharukas.d-kintetsu.co.jp/

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What is Abeno Harukas?

Abeno Harukas is a skyscraper in Osaka, Japan, notable for being the tallest building in the country at 300 meters. It provides a panoramic view of the city and houses various facilities, including the Kintetsu Department Store, one of Japan’s largest. Visitors can find a wide range of shopping options, from luxury brands to local specialties. The building also includes an art museum, a hotel, and an observation deck, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Its modern architecture and diverse amenities establish it as a key landmark in Osaka, drawing millions of visitors annually. Among its events, the Valentine Chocolate Collection stands out, featuring a variety of chocolate brands and exclusive collaborations, reinforcing its role as a cultural and commercial center.

Valentine’s Afternoon Tea at Andaz Tokyo

A Nine-Day Limited Event Showcasing Chocolate

Andaz Tokyo is hosting a nine-day limited "Valentine’s Afternoon Tea" event, a celebration of chocolate’s rich and varied appeal. This special event will be held from February 10th to February 18th, 2025, offering a unique opportunity to indulge in a curated selection of chocolate-infused delicacies.

Guests will be treated to an array of sweets meticulously crafted by the hotel’s pastry chef, each a testament to their passion for cacao. The menu features items such as the "Pistachio Mousse and Raspberry Jam Chocolate Feuilletine," a harmonious blend of smooth pistachio mousse and the vibrant, sweet-tart flavor of raspberry jam, enhanced by the delicate crunch of thin crepe dough chocolate feuilletine. Another highlight is the "Chocolate Bar," where a selection of hotel-made plate chocolates is served tableside, allowing guests to savor the distinct flavors and textures of each variety.

Sweets Selection

• Rose and Raspberry Macaron
• Chocolate Choux
• Chocolate and Strawberry Mousse
• Pistachio Mousse and Raspberry Jam Chocolate Feuilletine
• Passion Fruit Bonbon Chocolat

Scone

• Strawberry Scone (served with Strawberry Jam and Chantilly Cream)

Chocolate Bar

• Strawberry Chocolate with Dried Strawberry
• Milk Chocolate
• Dark Chocolate
• White Coconut Chocolate

Seasonal Specialty

• Strawberry Iced Tea (a blend of Strawberry Syrup, Milk, and Kusmi Tea Rooibos Vanilla Organic)

The savory selection is equally impressive, featuring a carefully chosen lineup designed to complement the sweetness of the desserts. One notable item is the "Mortadella and Cucumber Club Sandwich Basil Pesto," crafted with a rich basil pesto that substitutes almonds for pine nuts, adding a unique depth of flavor.

Savory Selection

• Red Beet, Goat Cheese, Cassis Mustard, Sourdough Toast
• Smoked Salmon Sandwich, Red Cabbage Pickles, Sour Cream
• Mortadella and Cucumber Club Sandwich, Basil Pesto
• Mushroom and Gruyere Cheese Quiche, Hazelnuts, Red Cress

Please note that menu items are subject to change based on ingredient availability.

Event Details

• Venue: Andaz Tokyo
• Nearest Stations: Toranomon Hills Station / Toranomon Station
• Address: Toranomon Hills Mori Tower, 1-23-4 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0001 (MAP)
• Event Period: February 10th (Monday) – February 18th (Tuesday), 2025
• Time:
  • 1st Session: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
  • 2nd Session: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
• Price: 7,020 yen (Please note that a 15% service charge will be added to the listed price, which includes tax.)
• Inquiries: The Tavern – Grill & Lounge (03-6830-7739)
• Official Website: https://restaurants.andaztokyo.jp/jp/news/valentine%5Fafternoontea

The information provided in this article is subject to change. We recommend checking the official website of the venue or organizer for the most up-to-date details.

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What is Andaz Tokyo?

Andaz Tokyo is a luxury hotel situated in the Toranomon Hills skyscraper, offering panoramic views of the Tokyo skyline, including Tokyo Tower and the Imperial Palace. The hotel combines modern design with elements of traditional Japanese hospitality. It features well-appointed rooms and suites, diverse dining options, and attentive service. As part of the Andaz brand by Hyatt, the hotel focuses on personalized experiences and connecting guests with local culture, providing a comfortable and authentic Tokyo experience.