Decomposable City: Explore Urban Harmony with Nature at Nagoya’s FabCafe (January 2025)

Decomposable City: Explore Urban Harmony with Nature at Nagoya's FabCafe (January 2025)

Decomposable City: Exploring Urban Life in Harmony with Nature (Nagoya Exhibition)

Amid the frequent occurrence and worsening of environmental problems, such as the recent climate change crisis and the heat island phenomenon, the existing urban system, its values, and its structure are being questioned. Production, consumption, decomposition. Something is produced, consumed, and doesn’t just end there, but through "decomposition" becomes involved again in the production process. Originally, all matter circulated in this way. However, hasn’t "decomposition" alone been separated, isolated, and its value suppressed from urban life, as urban lifestyles have grown with production and consumption at the center of their values?

This exhibition introduces various initiatives that increase options for existing urban systems and lifestyles, using "decomposition" as a starting point. It invites attendees to explore design hints together, in order to gain a new perspective on the relationship between urban environments and the natural world.

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Event Details

The exhibition will be held at FabCafe Nagoya, located in RAYARD Hisaya-Odori Park. It is conveniently accessible from Hisaya-Odori Station, a mere three-minute walk from Exit 1A of the Nagoya Municipal Subway.

Dates: January 8th (Wed) – 31st (Fri), 2025

Closed: No closing days

Hours: 9:00-20:30 (Note: Subject to FabCafe Nagoya’s business hours. The exhibition will close at 17:00 on the last day.)

Venue: FabCafe Nagoya (RAYARD Hisaya-Odori Park, 6-18-3 Marunouchi, Naka-ku, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture)

Fee: Admission is free. Guests are encouraged to enjoy the exhibition with a drink in hand when using the cafe.

Contact: FabCafe Nagoya Inquiry Form – https://fabcafe.com/jp/nagoya/contact/

Website URL: https://fabcafe.com/jp/nagoya/

Access: Nearest Station: Nagoya Municipal Subway Hisaya-Odori Station Exit 1A, 3-minute walk

What is FabCafe?

FabCafe is a space that combines a café with a fabrication lab, offering a place where technology and creativity meet. Originating in Japan, it allows people to enjoy coffee while using digital fabrication tools like 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines. This setup supports collaboration and experimentation, attracting designers, artists, entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts.

Visitors to FabCafe can join workshops, attend events, and work on projects that blend art, technology, and sustainability. The café builds a community by bringing together people from various backgrounds to share ideas and create. In Nagoya, FabCafe emphasizes urban harmony with nature, promoting projects that incorporate natural elements and sustainable practices into city design. By providing access to tools and inspiration, FabCafe encourages creative expression and exploration of new ideas in urban living.

Matsuzakaya Museum’s Delicious Botanical Art (2025): Explore Culinary History Through 18th & 19th Century Botanical Illustrations from Kew Gardens

Matsuzakaya Museum's Delicious Botanical Art (2025): Explore Culinary History Through 18th & 19th Century Botanical Illustrations from Kew Gardens

Delicious Botanical Art at the Matsuzakaya Museum: Stories of Plants that Enrich Our Cuisine

During the 18th and 19th centuries, as Britain modernized through the Industrial Revolution, the plants and food ingredients imported from around the world captivated people and greatly expanded the diversity of British food culture. This exhibition, held at the Matsuzakaya Art Museum, delves into this fascinating period of culinary and botanical exploration.

With the cooperation of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, which is known for housing the world’s largest botanical art collection of over 200,000 items, this exhibition showcases approximately 200 works. These include botanical art of vegetables, fruits, herbs, and spices drawn in the 18th and 19th centuries, along with furniture, tableware, and recipes that adorned dining tables of the era. The exhibition offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of art, science, and gastronomy during a time of significant cultural change.

The exhibition will be held at the Matsuzakaya Art Museum, located on the 7th floor of the South Building of the Matsuzakaya Nagoya Store. It runs from January 3, 2025 (Friday) to February 9, 2025 (Sunday), giving visitors ample time to immerse themselves in the world of botanical art. The museum is open daily from 10:00 to 18:00, with the last admission at 17:30, ensuring that even those with busy schedules can find a convenient time to visit.

Admission to the exhibition is priced at 1,200 yen for the general public, with a discounted rate of 1,000 yen available for advance or group bookings. High school and university students can enjoy the exhibition for 900 yen, or 700 yen with the discount. Notably, junior high school students and younger are granted free entry, making this an accessible cultural experience for families. For those interested in further discounts, the Matsuzakaya Art Museum website provides detailed information on various offers.

The Matsuzakaya Art Museum is conveniently located and easily accessible by public transportation. Visitors can take the Meijo Subway Line to Yabacho Station, which offers a direct connection to the museum via an underground passage from Exits 5 and 6. Alternatively, those arriving at Sakae Station on the Higashiyama and Meijo Subway Lines can reach the museum with a short 5-minute walk south from Exit 16.

For any inquiries, the Matsuzakaya Art Museum can be contacted at TEL: 050-1782-7000.

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Dates: January 3, 2025 (Friday) – February 9, 2025 (Sunday)

Hours: 10:00-18:00 (Last admission at 17:30)

Venue: Matsuzakaya Art Museum (Matsuzakaya Nagoya Store, South Building 7th floor)

Fee: Paid

Fee Details:

  • General: 1,200 yen (1,000 yen with advance/discount)
  • High school/University students: 900 yen (700 yen with advance/discount)
  • Junior high school students and younger: Free
  • Prices in parentheses ( ) are advance/discount prices.
  • For information on Matsuzakaya’s various discount offers, please check the Matsuzakaya Art Museum website.

Contact: Matsuzakaya Art Museum, TEL: 050-1782-7000 (Main)

Access:

  • Yabacho Station (Meijo Subway Line): Directly connected to the underground passage (Exits 5 & 6)
  • Sakae Station (Higashiyama and Meijo Subway Lines): 5-minute walk south from Exit 16

What is Matsuzakaya Museum?

The Matsuzakaya Museum, situated in Nagoya, Japan, is a cultural institution focused on art and history. Initially part of the Matsuzakaya department store, one of Japan’s oldest retail establishments, the museum has become a notable cultural venue. It hosts a variety of exhibitions, including traditional Japanese art, contemporary pieces, and international displays.

The museum is recognized for its exhibitions that connect historical and modern themes. For instance, "Delicious Botanical Art" highlights the beauty of botanical illustrations while examining their historical and cultural contexts. Such exhibitions offer visitors a chance to engage with art in an educational manner, enhancing their understanding of the links between art, nature, and history.

Grand Hyatt Tokyo’s Strawberry Fortune Afternoon Tea Buffet (Dec 2024-Jan 2025): Indulge in Premium Japanese Strawberries and Zodiac-Themed Treats

Grand Hyatt Tokyo's Strawberry Fortune Afternoon Tea Buffet (Dec 2024-Jan 2025): Indulge in Premium Japanese Strawberries and Zodiac-Themed Treats

Strawberry Fortune Afternoon Tea Buffet at the Grand Hyatt Tokyo

Indulge in an All-You-Can-Eat Selection of Sweets and Savories Featuring Premium Japanese Strawberries

The Grand Hyatt Tokyo, a dynamic luxury hotel towering over the bustling city, is offering a unique "Strawberry Fortune Afternoon Tea Buffet" at its all-day dining establishment, the "French Kitchen."

This buffet-style afternoon tea is a celebration of domestic brand strawberries, such as "Nyoho" and "Amaou." The event also incorporates sweets with a motif of the 2025 zodiac sign, the Snake, to bring good fortune in the new year.

The buffet showcases a variety of strawberry-centric sweets. The classic strawberry shortcake features "Nyoho" strawberries, known for their intense sweetness and balanced acidity. The light whipped cream and moist, rice flour-infused sponge cake serve to enhance the strawberries’ natural sweetness and freshness. The Paris-Brest, a crispy choux pastry filled generously with cream, is paired with the fragrant "Amaou" variety, which offers a harmonious blend of sweetness and acidity. The glossy, bright red ripe "Amaou" strawberries add a jewel-like aesthetic to this visually appealing dish. For the Crème d’Anjou, a rich fromage blanc dessert, carefully selected seasonal domestic strawberries are pureed into a luxurious sauce.

In addition to these, the buffet includes a selection of zodiac-themed sweets. A snake-shaped brioche filled with strawberries and cream is sure to be a conversation starter, with each snake sporting a unique, playful expression. A chocolate mousse adorned with a dynamically shaped snake made of coconut jelly is another eye-catching offering. This dessert combines the rich flavors of raspberry-flavored chocolate mousse and crème brûlée.

A highlight of the buffet is the chocolate fountain featuring the hotel’s original "Grande H" chocolate. Pastry Chef Kaneko journeyed to France to create this exclusive blend, which boasts a rich, powerful cacao flavor with spicy, woody undertones. Guests can indulge in this special chocolate by dipping strawberries and other ingredients of their choice.

The savory selection includes five types of dishes. Among them are sandwiches made with strawberry-flavored melon bread filled with Iberian ham and cream cheese, a quiche featuring winter vegetables, and tartines of house-smoked salmon (smoked slowly for 7-8 hours with cherry wood smoke chips) and rapeseed blossoms on baguettes.

This all-strawberry afternoon tea, featuring sweets crafted by a world-champion pastry team and savories reflecting the passion of the "French Kitchen" chef, offers a luxurious way to celebrate the start of the new year.

Menu Highlights

Sweets

  • Nyoho Strawberry Shortcake
  • Amaou Strawberry Paris-Brest
  • Strawberry Crème d’Anjou
  • Strawberry White Chocolate Mousse
  • Snake Strawberry Brioche
  • Fortune Chocolate Mousse
  • Hotel Original Chocolate "Grande H" Chocolate Fountain

Savories

  • Strawberry Melon Bread Sandwich with Iberian Ham and Cream Cheese
  • Quiche with Bacon, Lotus Root, and Salsify
  • Tartine with Smoked Salmon, Mimosa, and Rapeseed Blossoms
  • Chicken Tortilla Wrap with Celeriac and Spinach
  • Tartlet with Pork Rillette and Walnuts

Scones

  • Strawberry and Chocolate Scone
  • Plain Scone
  • Clotted Cream / Strawberry Jam

Tea

  • Selection from Los Angeles-based premium organic tea brand "ART OF TEA"
  • Cafe Latte (iced/hot) and Cappuccino (iced/hot) are also available.

Event Details

Please note that the content is subject to change. Check the official website for the latest information.

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What Makes Japanese Strawberries Unique?

Japanese strawberries are known for their high quality, achieved through careful cultivation techniques. They are often grown in controlled environments like greenhouses, where conditions such as temperature, humidity, and sunlight are precisely managed. This results in strawberries that are consistently sweet, juicy, and aromatic.

Farmers in Japan blend traditional methods with modern technology to improve the flavor and texture of their strawberries. The soil is enriched with organic matter, and hand-pollination is used to maintain uniformity and quality. This dedication is reflected in the strawberries’ appearance, which are typically larger, more vibrant, and conically shaped.

Certain varieties, like Amaou and Tochiotome, are particularly prized and can be quite expensive. These strawberries are often given as gifts and are featured in high-end culinary settings.

In summary, the combination of precise farming practices and cultural significance contributes to the reputation of Japanese strawberries as a premium product.

Experience the Magic: Nagoya’s Shumokukan Winter Illuminations 2024-2025

Experience the Magic: Nagoya's Shumokukan Winter Illuminations 2024-2025

Light Up the Night! 橦木館 on the Culture Path

In Nagoya City’s Higashi Ward, the Shirakabe district retains a serene atmosphere, characterized by its numerous retro buildings. Among these, the "Bunka no Michi Shumokukan" stands out as a remarkable site, seamlessly blending a garden, a Western-style building, and a Japanese-style structure, creating an ambiance that is at once nostalgic and modern, reminiscent of the Taisho and Showa eras. This winter, from the Christmas season through the New Year, the Shumokukan will host special nighttime openings, featuring illuminations that promise to enhance its unique charm.

Crowdfunding Campaign

A crowdfunding campaign is currently underway to support this initiative. The campaign, titled "We want to light up the garden of the Taisho-retro building ‘Bunka no Michi Shumokukan’ so it can be enjoyed at night!", aims to enhance the illuminations based on the level of funding achieved. The application deadline for contributions is December 10th. For more details, please visit the Crowdfunding official website "CAMPFIRE".

Spot Information: Bunka no Michi Shumokukan

The Bunka no Michi Shumokukan was originally the residence of Isaburo Imoto, a prominent ceramics and porcelain trader active from the late Taisho era to the early Showa era. The estate includes a Japanese-style house, a Western-style house, two storehouses (east and west), a tea room, and a garden. It is designated as a tangible cultural property of Nagoya City and an important landscape building.

See spot details

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Event Details

Dates: December 17, 2024 (Tue) – January 31, 2025 (Fri)

Closed:

  • Mondays (or the following weekday if Monday is a holiday)
  • New Year’s holidays (December 28th (Sat) to January 3rd (Fri))
  • December 21st (Sat), January 19th (Sun), January 21st (Tue), January 25th (Sat), January 26th (Sun)

Hours: 17:30-20:30 (Last entry at 20:00)

Venue: Bunka no Michi Shumokukan

Price:

  • Season Pass:
    • Adults: 1,500 yen
    • Junior high school students and younger: 1,200 yen
    • Preschoolers: Free
    • Note: Allows multiple visits during the event year. Until December 10th, tickets can be purchased at a reduced price on the crowdfunding website "CAMPFIRE."
  • 1-Day Ticket:
    • General: 300 yen
    • Preschoolers: Free

Contact:

Access:

  • Subway: Sakuradori Line, Takaoka Station, Exit 1, 10-minute walk north
  • Nagoya Sightseeing Route Bus: Me~guru, "Bunka no Michi Futabakkan" stop, 3-minute walk west
  • Meitetsu Seto Line: Nigisaka Station, 12-minute walk south
  • City Bus: Higashikatabata stop, 3-minute walk north
  • Trunk Route Bus No. 2: Kiyomizuguchi stop, 5-minute walk south

Note: Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation.

What is Shumokukan?

Shumokukan is a notable landmark in Nagoya, Japan, known for its architectural significance and historical value. Constructed in the early 20th century, it showcases a blend of traditional Japanese design with Western elements, characteristic of the Meiji era’s modernization efforts. Throughout its history, Shumokukan has been used for various purposes, including as a private residence and a cultural venue, reflecting Nagoya’s historical development.

Visitors to Shumokukan can explore its well-preserved interiors, which include detailed woodwork, tatami-mat rooms, and gardens that offer different views with each season. The building’s calm atmosphere and historical importance make it a favored spot for both locals and tourists interested in Japan’s history. In winter, Shumokukan hosts the annual Winter Illuminations, where its gardens and exteriors are adorned with lights, offering a seasonal attraction.

My Hero Academia x TOKYO SKYTREE® Event 2025: Soar to New Heights with Exclusive Merch, Themed Cafe, & Special Lighting

My Hero Academia x TOKYO SKYTREE® Event 2025: Soar to New Heights with Exclusive Merch, Themed Cafe, & Special Lighting

FLOAT at TOKYO SKYTREE®! Hero Training Above the Sky! My Hero Academia × TOKYO SKYTREE®

A Unique Collaboration: My Hero Academia Takes Over TOKYO SKYTREE®

From January 8th to April 8th, 2025, TOKYO SKYTREE® will host its first-ever collaboration event with the popular TV anime My Hero Academia. This event offers fans a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of their favorite heroes, high above the Tokyo skyline.

Exclusive Experiences at 450 Meters

The main attraction of this collaboration takes place in the Tembo Galleria, situated 450 meters above ground. Visitors will find this area transformed with My Hero Academia-themed decorations, featuring event-limited key visuals. Numerous photo spots will allow fans to capture memorable moments alongside their beloved characters. Additionally, exclusive merchandise and a themed cafe menu, available only at TOKYO SKYTREE®, will be offered.

Limited Edition Tickets and Character Greetings

For those seeking a truly special memento, a limited "Observation Deck Admission Ticket with Bromide" will be available for purchase. This set includes a TOKYO SKYTREE® admission ticket, granting access to both the Tembo Deck and Tembo Galleria, along with one of six unique bromides featuring event-exclusive illustrations.

Adding to the excitement, Sorakara-chan, the official mascot of TOKYO SKYTREE®, will make special appearances dressed as "All Might," a prominent character from My Hero Academia. This provides a rare photo opportunity with Sorakara-chan in a unique, limited-time costume.

Immersive Entertainment and Special Lighting

The collaboration extends beyond static displays. The SKYTREE ROUND THEATER®, located on the Tembo Deck at 350 meters, will screen a special video using its panoramic window glass as a giant screen. A photo service on the Tembo Galleria Floor 445 will allow visitors to create composite photos with the characters. Finally, the tower itself will be illuminated with special lighting inspired by the characters of My Hero Academia, creating a spectacle visible throughout the city.

Event Details

Here’s a breakdown of the event’s offerings:

  1. Observation Deck Admission Ticket with Bromide: A combined ticket for the Tembo Deck and Tembo Galleria, including a collectible bromide.
  2. Exhibition Decorations and Photo Spots: Themed displays and photo opportunities within the Tembo Deck and Tembo Galleria.
  3. Event-Limited Photo Service: Available on Tembo Galleria Floor 445, allowing for composite photos with characters.
  4. Sorakara-chan Greetings: Appearances by Sorakara-chan in a special "All Might" costume.
  5. Special Video Screening: A unique video presentation at the SKYTREE ROUND THEATER® on Tembo Deck Floor 350.
  6. Event-Limited Cafe Menu: Themed food and drinks at the SKYTREE CAFE on Tembo Deck Floor 340.
  7. Event-Limited Goods: Exclusive merchandise available at the SKYTREE SHOP on Tembo Deck Floor 345.
  8. Special Lighting: Themed illumination of the TOKYO SKYTREE® tower.

Please note that the event’s content is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the official website.

Access and Practical Information

  • Location: TOKYO SKYTREE®
  • Nearest Stations: Tokyo Skytree Station / Oshiage ‘Skytree-mae’ Station
  • Address: 〒131-0045 Tokyo, Sumida-ku, Oshiage 1-1-2 (MAP)
  • Venue: TOKYO SKYTREE® Tembo Deck, Tembo Galleria
  • Event Period: 2025/01/08 (Wed) – 2025/04/08 (Tue)
  • Time: During the facility’s regular operating hours.
  • Fees: Admission to the Tembo Deck and Tembo Galleria requires a separate observation deck admission ticket. Please check the official website for pricing details.
  • Inquiries: TOKYO SKYTREE® Call Center at 0570-55-0634 (10:00-18:00)
  • Official Website: https://www.tokyo-skytree.jp/event/special/heroaca/

The information provided is subject to change. Always consult the official website of the venue or organizer for the latest updates.

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Image of TOKYO SKYTREE® Image of TOKYO SKYTREE®

What is TOKYO SKYTREE?

TOKYO SKYTREE is a broadcasting and observation tower in the Sumida City Ward of Tokyo, Japan. At 634 meters (2,080 feet), it is the tallest structure in Japan and ranks among the tallest towers globally. Completed in 2012, it serves as a key television and radio broadcast site for the Kanto region, succeeding the older Tokyo Tower in this capacity.

In addition to its broadcasting role, TOKYO SKYTREE is a notable tourist attraction, offering expansive views of Tokyo from its two observation decks. The Tembo Deck, at 350 meters, and the Tembo Galleria, at 450 meters, allow visitors to see the cityscape and, on clear days, Mount Fuji.

The base of the tower includes a shopping complex, dining venues, and an aquarium, making it a center for entertainment and culture. Its design, which draws from traditional Japanese architecture and modern engineering, represents Tokyo’s mix of tradition and innovation. The tower is often lit in various colors and themes, contributing to Tokyo’s skyline, particularly during events and celebrations.

Hoshigaoka Terrace Winter Illumination 2024-2025: Explore Nagoya’s Botanical Town

Hoshigaoka Terrace Winter Illumination 2024-2025: Explore Nagoya's Botanical Town

Hoshigaoka Terrace Winter Illumination

This year’s illumination theme is "Botanical Town ~The Hill of the Wind Users~." Plants are said to account for approximately 80-90% of the ecosystem that supports the Earth. Those who nurture these plants are birds, insects, and humans, collectively referred to as "Wind Users."

On the Hill of the Wind Users, the event will depict a hill where these wind users, who help grow plants, reside. Imagining that humans become small and stand at the same eye level in a world where plants and insects live, the community garden "Hill of the Wind" will be expressed as a place where people and living things gather.

The message conveyed from this worldview is that on Earth, animals, insects, and plants all coexist and co-prosper. Perhaps humans are also "borrowing life" on Earth as a part of that community.

The event aims to reconsider the global environment and the spirit of coexistence and co-prosperity, which have been lost in recent social conditions, and reproduce them as the way of life in Hoshigaoka.

This year, the event will once again collaborate with Sugiyama Jogakuen University, and the students will create the displayed houses and stars.

Spot Information

Hoshigaoka Terrace

Hoshigaoka Terrace is an open-mall type commercial facility where visitors can enjoy shopping and gourmet food while feeling nature and the seasons. The outdoor decorations, which change with the seasons, are also popular.

Nearby, visitors can also find the Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens and the Higashiyama Sky Tower. These attractions provide additional opportunities for a fulfilling outing.

See spot details

Introduced in this feature!

Nagoya Illumination Feature 2023-2024
Nagoya Illumination Feature 2023-2024

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Event Details

  • Dates: November 9, 2024 (Sat) – February 2, 2025 (Sun)
  • Closed: January 1, 2024 (Mon)
  • Hours: 17:00-23:00 (planned)
  • Venue: Hoshigaoka Terrace
  • Contact: Hoshigaoka Terrace Sales Department, Management Office
  • TEL: 052-781-1266 (Reception hours 10:00-18:00)
  • Access:
    • Train: 1-minute walk from Exit 6/Mitsukoshi connection of Hoshigaoka Station on the Higashiyama Subway Line
    • Car:
      • From within the city: Enter south at the Hoshigaoka Nishi intersection on Higashiyama-dori (approximately 30 minutes from Nagoya Station)
      • From outside the city: Approximately 3km from Nagoya IC on the Tomei Expressway or Kamisha IC on the Nagoya Daini Kanjo Expressway towards Sakae, turn left at the Hoshigaoka Nishi intersection on Higashiyama-dori
  • Parking: Available (approximately 1,200 spaces / 250 yen per 30 minutes)

※ The images are from the 2023 event.

What is Hoshigaoka Terrace?

Hoshigaoka Terrace is a shopping and lifestyle center in Nagoya, Japan, featuring modern architecture and an open-air design. It combines retail, dining, and entertainment, serving as a community hub for both locals and visitors. The terrace offers a range of shops, from high-end fashion boutiques to local stores, and hosts numerous cafes and restaurants with diverse culinary options. Throughout the year, it organizes various events and seasonal attractions, maintaining its dynamic atmosphere. The integration of natural elements with urban convenience makes it a notable spot for experiencing Nagoya’s contemporary lifestyle.

Solve the Kakuozan Mystery Stroll 2024 Puzzle in Nagoya & Win Prizes!

Solve the Kakuozan Mystery Stroll 2024 Puzzle in Nagoya & Win Prizes!

Kakuozan Mystery Stroll

Chikusa Ward is partnering with a real-world puzzle-solving game to bring you an engaging tour-style event. This marks the first time such an event will be held in Chikusa Ward, specifically in the Shiroyama/Kakuozan area, a locale rich in historical and cultural significance. Participants will have the opportunity to explore the town, delving into its history and culture while solving a series of intriguing puzzles.

How to Participate in the Kakuozan Mystery Stroll

Your adventure begins with obtaining a participation booklet, which serves as your guide throughout this interactive journey. Distribution locations for these booklets are listed on the official "Kakuozan Mystery Walk" website: https://chikusa-nazotoki.com/kakuozan/2024/information/.

Once you have your booklet, you can embark on the puzzle-solving quest. Each puzzle you solve will reveal the location of the next challenge, leading you on a carefully crafted path through the Shiroyama/Kakuozan area.

When you believe you have cracked a puzzle, the next step is to confirm your answer. This is accomplished by scanning a QR code provided in the booklet and entering your answer on the designated screen. A correct answer allows you to progress to the subsequent question, bringing you one step closer to the end of the game.

Successfully deciphering the final puzzle signifies that you have cleared the game! This achievement not only brings a sense of accomplishment but also makes you eligible to enter a lottery with a selection of luxurious prizes.

Please note that this event utilizes the LINE application for communication and gameplay. Additionally, due to the lack of parking facilities near the event venue, participants are strongly encouraged to use public transportation.

Prizes for Completing the Puzzle-Solving Game

Participants who successfully complete the puzzle-solving game will have the chance to win one of several enticing prizes. The prize categories are as follows:

  • Prize A: A JTB Travel Voucher valued at 100,000 yen (1 winner)
  • Prize B: An Original Package Instant Camera (10 winners)
  • Prize C: A Wax Seal & Letter Set (10 winners)
  • Prize D: GoToKAKUOZAN Member Store Gift Certificates worth 3,000 yen (35 winners)

It is important to note that the prizes are subject to change without prior notice. Winners will be notified through the shipment of their respective prizes.

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Event Details

The Kakuozan Mystery Stroll will take place from November 5, 2024 (Tuesday) to January 31, 2025 (Friday). The event will be accessible during the opening hours of the various mystery spot facilities, which are detailed below:

  • Nittaiji Temple: 5:00 AM to 4:30 PM
  • Yokoso Garden: 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (Closed on Mondays; if Monday is a holiday, closed the following weekday)
  • Sōōji Temple: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Shiroyama Hachimangū Shrine: 9:15 AM to 4:30 PM

Please be aware that business hours might differ from the usual schedule during the New Year’s holiday period and at other times.

The event is centered in the Shiroyama/Kakuozan area of Chikusa Ward, with the starting point conveniently located at Exit 1 of Kakuozan Station.

Participation in the Kakuozan Mystery Stroll is free of charge.

For any inquiries, please contact the Chikusa Ward Office, Community Development Section at 052-753-1824.

Additional information can be found on the official website: https://chikusa-nazotoki.com/kakuozan/2024/information/.

The event is easily accessible via public transportation, with Kakuozan Station on the Higashiyama Subway Line being the primary access point. Simply exit through Exit 1, and you will find yourself at the starting point of this unique urban adventure.

What is Kakuozan?

Kakuozan is a district in Nagoya, Japan, known for its mix of traditional and modern influences. It offers a look into both historical and contemporary Japanese life. The area features streets with shops, cafes, and artisan boutiques, attracting both locals and tourists.

A notable site in Kakuozan is the Nittaiji Temple, a Buddhist temple known for its peaceful setting and architecture. The temple grounds host cultural events and festivals, offering visitors a chance to experience local traditions.

The district is also known for its arts scene, with galleries and studios displaying local artists’ work. Community events, like the Kakuozan Mystery Stroll, encourage exploration through puzzles and activities.

Kakuozan combines history, culture, and creativity, making it a worthwhile stop for those visiting Nagoya.

How to Get Tickets to The Black Skirts 2025 Seoul Concert: SONGS TO BRING YOU HOME (Feb 7-9)

How to Get Tickets to The Black Skirts 2025 Seoul Concert: SONGS TO BRING YOU HOME (Feb 7-9)

The Black Skirts 2025 Solo Concert: "SONGS TO BRING YOU HOME"

Poster

Event Information

The Black Skirts, the acclaimed South Korean indie rock band, will be holding a solo concert series titled "SONGS TO BRING YOU HOME" in early 2025. This event promises to be a significant occasion for fans, as it will take place at the prestigious Olympic Park Olympic Hall, located at 424 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul (88-2, Bangi-dong). The venue is well-known for hosting large-scale performances, providing an immersive experience for concertgoers.

For those planning to attend, the concert will span three days:

Schedule

The concert series will feature evening performances, each starting at a different time to accommodate various schedules:

  • February 7th (Friday): 8:00 PM
  • February 8th (Saturday): 7:00 PM
  • February 9th (Sunday): 6:00 PM

Lineup

The sole performer for this event will be:

  • The Black Skirts (검정치마)

Ticket Price

Tickets for the concert are available in three categories, ensuring options for different preferences and budgets:

  • Standing (General): 132,000 KRW
  • Reserved Seat R (General): 132,000 KRW
  • Reserved Seat S (General): 121,000 KRW

Ticket and Festival Information

Ticket Purchase Details

Tickets will be available for purchase starting January 8th, 2025 (Wednesday) at 7:00 PM. Due to high demand and to prevent scalping, there is a limit of two tickets per person per show.

Important Note: To minimize issues related to resale and fraudulent transactions, payments made via bank transfer must be completed by midnight on the day of reservation. Failure to complete the payment within this timeframe will result in automatic cancellation of the reservation.

Wheelchair Seat Reservations

Wheelchair-accessible seating is available and can be reserved starting January 9th, 2025 (Thursday) at 9:00 AM. These seats are designed to accommodate both the wheelchair user and one accompanying person.

Reservation Method: Wheelchair seat reservations can only be made via phone through the Interpark Customer Center.

Contact Information:

  • Interpark Ticket: 1544-1555
  • Operating Hours: Weekdays, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

A bit about The Black Skirts (검정치마)

The Black Skirts (검정치마) is the solo project of Korean-American musician Jo Hyu-il, also known as Bryan Cho. Emerging in the South Korean indie music scene, The Black Skirts has garnered a dedicated following with its unique blend of indie rock, pop, and lo-fi aesthetics. Known for its introspective lyrics and catchy melodies, the project debuted with the album "201" in 2010, which quickly gained critical acclaim and won the Best Modern Rock Album at the Korean Music Awards. The Black Skirts’ music often explores themes of love, nostalgia, and personal reflection, resonating with listeners both in South Korea and internationally. With subsequent releases like "Don’t You Worry Baby (I’m Only Swimming)" and "Team Baby," The Black Skirts continues to captivate audiences with its emotive soundscapes and artistic authenticity.

이 포스팅은 쿠팡 파트너스 활동의 일환으로, 이에 따른 일정액의 수수료를 제공받습니다.

Celebrate Seollal 2025 at Seoul’s Unhyeongung Palace: Free Performances & Cultural Activities

Celebrate Seollal 2025 at Seoul's Unhyeongung Palace: Free Performances & Cultural Activities

Unhyeongung Great Fortune Lunar New Year Celebration

🗓️ 2025.01.28 ~ 2025.01.30

To celebrate Seollal, the nation’s biggest holiday that heralds the ‘Year of the Blue Snake,’ Unhyeongung Palace in Seoul will be hosting a variety of traditional cultural events. These events are designed to provide a meaningful holiday experience for Seoul citizens and foreign visitors alike, with a particular focus on families with children. The celebration aims to make Unhyeongung more accessible to the public by offering a diverse range of experiences and performances.

Performance Events

The performance schedule is thoughtfully curated to offer a mix of traditional and contemporary art forms, ensuring there’s something to captivate every attendee. Each performance is free, inviting everyone to partake in the festivities without financial barriers.

  1. Fusion Korean Traditional Music & Magic Performance to Enjoy with Family

    • January 28th, 14:00-15:30
    • Free
    • This unique performance blends the enchanting sounds of traditional Korean music with the mystique of magic, creating an unforgettable experience for families.
  2. New Year’s Jisin-balgi (Earth God’s Stomp) and Our Melodies, Our Sounds

    • January 29th, 14:00-14:40
    • Free
    • A vibrant display of traditional Korean music and dance, this performance is a symbolic ritual to appease the Earth God and ensure a prosperous new year.
  3. Gayageum Byeongchang (Narrative Song accompanied by Gayageum) & Circus Performance for All Generations

    • January 30th, 14:00-15:30
    • Free
    • This event combines the elegant art of Gayageum Byeongchang, a narrative song accompanied by the Gayageum instrument, with the excitement of a circus performance, appealing to audiences of all ages.

Experiential Events

In addition to the performances, a variety of hands-on activities are available throughout the celebration. These events offer a unique opportunity to engage with Korean culture and create lasting memories.

  1. New Year’s Tteokguk (Rice Cake Soup) Sharing

    • January 29th, 12:00-13:00
    • Free
    • Partake in the tradition of sharing Tteokguk, a rice cake soup traditionally eaten during Seollal, symbolizing good luck and prosperity for the new year.
  2. New Year’s Great Fortune Talisman Stamping

    • January 28th~30th, 11:00-16:00
    • Free
    • Create your own New Year’s talisman, a traditional Korean charm believed to bring good fortune.
  3. Traditional Games

    • January 28th~30th, 11:00-16:00
    • Free
    • Enjoy a variety of traditional Korean games, including Jegichagi (Shuttlecock Kicking), Yutnori (Traditional Board Game), Tuho (Arrow Throwing), Archery, and Gongginori (Jackstones). These games offer a fun and engaging way to experience Korean culture.
  4. Blue Snake Great Fortune Photo Zone

    • January 28th~30th, 11:00-16:00
    • Free
    • Capture your memories at the Blue Snake Great Fortune Photo Zone, a specially designed area for taking festive photos.
  5. New Year’s Fortune Telling (Tarot & Saju (Four Pillars of Destiny))

    • January 28th~30th, 11:00-16:00
    • 5,000 won
    • Discover what the new year holds for you with a fortune-telling session, choosing between Tarot or Saju, a traditional Korean method based on the Four Pillars of Destiny.
  6. Blue Snake Deform Block Making

    • January 28th~30th, 11:00-16:00
    • 5,000 won
    • Get creative and make your own Blue Snake deform block, a unique souvenir to commemorate the Year of the Blue Snake.
  7. Blue Snake Lucky Bag Making

    • January 28th~30th, 11:00-16:00
    • 5,000 won
    • Craft your own Blue Snake lucky bag, a traditional Korean item believed to bring good luck and prosperity.

Event Details

운현궁 운수대통 설맞이

What is Seollal?

Seollal, or Korean Lunar New Year, is a major traditional holiday in Korea, marking the start of the lunar calendar. It is a time for families to gather, honor their ancestors, and celebrate the new year. The holiday usually spans three days, allowing people to visit their hometowns and engage in various customs.

A key tradition of Seollal is "charye," an ancestral rite where families prepare a table of food offerings to honor their ancestors. This practice is a way to show gratitude and seek blessings for the coming year. Another tradition is "sebae," a respectful bow performed by younger family members to their elders, who often give "sebaetdon," or New Year’s money, in return.

Seollal is also a time for enjoying traditional foods and games. Families eat "tteokguk," a rice cake soup associated with gaining an additional year of age, and play "yutnori," a board game that encourages friendly competition. The holiday combines cultural heritage with family bonding, making it a cherished occasion for Koreans worldwide.

Celebrate Lunar New Year 2025 in Kaohsiung: Festive Events & Activities Across the City

Celebrate Lunar New Year 2025 in Kaohsiung: Festive Events & Activities Across the City

Enjoying the 2025 Kaohsiung Lunar New Year

Kaohsiung’s shopping districts are ushering in the Lunar New Year with the expansive "2025 Kaohsiung Celebrates the New Year" series of events. The Kaohsiung City Government Economic Development Bureau, in collaboration with the Greater Kaohsiung Tourism Business District Association and nearly 30 business districts citywide, formally announced the commencement of activities on January 6th, 2025.

A City-Wide Celebration

Districts spanning from Sanfong Jung Street to New Juejiang, Meinong, Liugui, and Yancheng are actively participating, each having meticulously planned a variety of festive activities. Visitors can expect to find not only specialty products, creative souvenirs, and authentic cuisine but also the opportunity to receive the city government’s "Year of the Snake Red Envelopes," which showcase the unique charm and rich New Year atmosphere characteristic of each business district. The Sanfong Jung Street New Year’s Goods Street will be the first to open, with festivities beginning on January 11th.

Activities and Attractions

The "2025 Kaohsiung Celebrates the New Year" event features a diverse array of activities designed to engage both citizens and tourists. These include traditional spring couplet rubbing, a variety of DIY crafts, numerous stage performances, and bustling New Year goods markets. This combination of offerings creates a creative and enjoyable cultural experience for all attendees.

The event provides a unique opportunity to purchase high-quality New Year goods while simultaneously participating in hands-on interactive activities, allowing everyone to share in the collective joy of the New Year. The breadth of content ensures a multitude of surprises and a high level of excitement throughout the celebration. Detailed information regarding specific events and schedules can be found on the dedicated fan pages of each participating business district.

Image Gallery

The following images offer a glimpse into the vibrant atmosphere of the Kaohsiung Lunar New Year celebrations:

![Image of Sanfong Jung Street during the Lunar New Year](https://khh.travel/content/images/articles/54602/480x360_articles-image-3boe-u0j_kmnqqojrwav5q.jpg)
![Image of New Year goods market in Kaohsiung](https://khh.travel/content/images/articles/54603/480x360_articles-image-mfr-gzl1leiykfsqlxeuag.jpg)
![Image of a stage performance during the Lunar New Year](https://khh.travel/content/images/articles/54604/480x360_articles-image-zrl4mjsgz0ilwjqbz38xsa.jpg)
![Image of people participating in DIY crafts](https://khh.travel/content/images/articles/54605/480x360_articles-image-akzqbmcuu0idbiaiy5vffa.jpg)
![Image of a crowd enjoying the Lunar New Year festivities](https://khh.travel/content/images/articles/54606/480x360_articles-image-yae6yqxotuambodzqmljya.jpg)
![Image of a traditional Lunar New Year decoration](https://khh.travel/content/images/articles/54607/480x360_articles-image-yyuajmics0ebtxtj2k7iqa.jpg)

Accommodation

For those planning to visit Kaohsiung during the Lunar New Year, a variety of hotels are conveniently located near the event areas. You can find a selection of accommodations through this link: 🛏️ Hotels near the event.

What is Kaohsiung?

Kaohsiung is a city in southern Taiwan, notable for its cultural heritage, modern infrastructure, and natural landscapes. As Taiwan’s second-largest city, it functions as a major port and industrial center, playing a key role in the national economy. The city enjoys a warm climate, making it a year-round destination for visitors.

Kaohsiung offers a range of attractions, including the Love River, the 85 Sky Tower, and the Liuhe Night Market, where visitors can sample local foods. The city’s cultural offerings include museums, art galleries, and performance venues that feature both traditional and contemporary Taiwanese art.

In recent years, Kaohsiung has seen significant urban development, evolving into a modern city with efficient public transportation, such as the Kaohsiung MRT system, and a focus on sustainability. The city’s commitment to green spaces is evident in its parks and waterfront areas, which provide opportunities for outdoor activities.

During the Lunar New Year, Kaohsiung hosts celebrations that blend traditional customs with modern festivities. Events include parades, lantern displays, cultural performances, and temple fairs, offering a chance to experience the traditions of the Lunar New Year. Whether visiting for the first time or returning, Kaohsiung offers a memorable experience of this festive occasion.

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