It’s been 15 years since Roppongi Hills first opened, which is set to welcome summer again this year with exciting events running from July 14 to August 26. It will be packed with events including the 5th run of TV Asahi’s collaborative Natsumatsuri Summer Station event, the annual Bon Odori dance and more. There will even be events up Tokyo City View, one of Tokyo’s best observation decks with a panoramic view of the city.
TV Asahi & Roppongi Hills Natsumatsuri Summer Station 2018
One of summer’s biggest events in Tokyo, Summer Station began in 2014 and has been held every year since. Last year, it saw a record 5.8 million people turn up. The theme this year is ‘summer magic’ for which the event will collaborate with the whole town. Look forward to live music performances, shows, food, VR sessions, photo spots, exhibitions and more. The popular life-sized Doraemon will make a return at 66 Plaza where there’ll also be artists performing as well as anime inspired food. A new booth will also make an appearance at Keyakizaki this year. There’s plenty for both adults and children to enjoy!
Locations: TV Asahi Headquarters, Roppongi Hills Arena, Mori Garden, Ooyane Plaza, 66 Plaza, and elsewhere
Running: July 14, 2018 – August 26, 2018
Time: 10:00-19:00 (program times and dates differ at each area)
Price: General (12+ years) – ¥2,000 / Children (4-11 years) – ¥1,000
*Select areas are free entry.
Roppongi Hills Bon Odori 2018
This will be the 16th year of the Roppongi Hills bon odori where people come together and dance around the central yagura. The event will offer the real Japanese ‘matsuri’ festival experience, with food stands serving up original menus from restaurants in Roppongi Hills, and more.
Location: Roppongi Hills Arena
Running: August 24, 2018 – August 26, 2018
August 24th – Festival Eve / Musical Play / Ennichi Yatai (5pm-9pm)
*Bon odori not running on the 24th.
August 25th & 26th – Ennichi Yatai (3pm-9pm) / Bon Odori (5pm-8pm)
Feel the Summer Sky Atop Tokyo City View
A summer event will be held at Tokyo City View, the observation deck of Roppongi Hills, where you can learn about the ocean and environment. There will be a digital globe you can touch which will introduce the mysteries of the world with a focus on the sea. It’s a popular project that was set up by the UN and museums around the world. Also, people who head up to the roof sky deck dressed in yukata or other traditional summer clothes will receive a special bonus. The opening hours will also be extended so people can fully enjoy watching neighbouring firework events, the starry night sky and the city nightscape. If you’re looking to experience Japanese summer to the max then this one’s a must!
・Ocean Globe Museum 2018
Running: July 13, 2018 – September 2, 2018
Time: 10:00-22:00 (Last Entries 21:30)
Location: Roppongi Hills Tokyo City View Sky Gallery 1
Price: Free (*However, you must pay ¥1,800 general entry for the observation deck)
・Sky Deck Free Entry – Yukata
Those who arrive dressed in yukata or traditional summer clothes can gain free entry to the Mori Tower Sky Deck, which is normally ¥500 for adults and ¥300 for children.
Running: July 14, 2018 – August 26, 2018
*When entering the sky deck it will cost ¥1,800 to enter the observation deck. Closed during times of bad weather.
・Sky Deck Opening Hours Extension
Running: July 14, 2018 – August 26, 2018
Extended Hours: Open until 22:00 (Last Entries 21:30)
*Closed during times of bad weather.
Enjoy an exciting Japanese summer from all angles in Roppongi!
■Informaion
Roppongi Hills: http://www.roppongihills.com/
RELATED ENTRIES
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Fans Asked to Name Blimp Inspired by the Upcoming Film ‘Doraemon: Nobita’s Sky Utopia’
20.January.2023 | ANIME&GAME / MOVIE
The film Doraemon: Nobita’s Sky Utopia will be released on March 3, 2023. The 42nd Doraemon movie follows Doraemon, Nobita, and his friends as they venture off to find Utopia, a perfect land in the sky where everyone lines in joy and happiness. They do so using an airship with a time warp function on their adventure, and to commemorate the film’s release, the Flying Doraemon Project began on January 14. A real-life 17-meter-long Doraemon blimp will soon appear in the sky, and fans are being asked to decide on a name for the craft.
The blimp, inspired by the Doraemon movie, will feature popular characters including Nobita, Shizuka, Suneo, and Gian. The blimp is the largest unmanned airship in Japan.
The message of the Flying Doraemon Project is to convey the feeling that in this day and age, children and adults alike can once again look upward and move forward toward their hopes and dreams.
Fans are asked to contribute ideas for the blimps name during the application period. Check the website for more details!
Information
Doraemon: Nobita’s Sky Utopia
Release Date: March 3, 2023
Official Site: https://doraeiga.com/2023/Won’t You Think With Us? Secret Blimp Naming Conference
Application Period: January 14 – February 15, 2023 (Until 23:59)
How to Enter: Please apply using the online application form or by postcard.
Application Form: https://ssl.toho-movie.com/senden/23dora_cp01/
Official Site: https://doraeiga.com/2023/airship/ -
Original Doraemon Shirt Inspired by Nobita’s Room Now Available
22.December.2022 | ANIME&GAME / FASHION
Shogakukan’s online store has released a long-sleeve shirt inspired by Nobita’s room from the long-running Doraemon series. Released on December 15, the fashionable and fun item is sure to be a fan favorite.
Shirts Inspired by Nobita’s Room!
The shirt was developed in collaboration with Kawatani Shirt, a Tokyo-based brand dating back to 2011 specializing in casual shirts for adults.
The green stripes were inspired by the tatami mats found in Nobita’s room, and the simple back is white with a slight checker pattern at the top.
Part of the inner lining is even decorated with Doraemon’s Take-copter!
The button at the neck is bright yellow, inspired by Doraemon’s signature bell.
The lining of the left breast pocket features an embroidered Doraemon as well.
As expected, Nobita can also be seen lounging on the bottom right of the shirt.
The shirt is available in four sizes from S to XL. Made from 100% cotton, this is a comfortable piece of clothing perfect for wearing all year round. Why not add this playful shirt to your rotation?
©Fujiko-Pro
Information
Doraemon Long-sleeve Shirt ‘Nobita’s Room’
Release Date: December 15, 2022
Sizes: S, M, L, XL
Price: 14,300 (Tax Included)
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Doraemon Sleeping Bag and Neckwear Perfect for Bringing on a Winter Camping Trip
14.December.2022 | ANIME&GAME / FASHION
Doraemon fans who also love the great outdoors will be able to grab some new goods for their winter outings. A Doraemon-inspired sleeping bag created by down maker NANGA and neckwear made by Spanish brand BUFF are now available at the Shogakukan online department store!
NANGA is one of Japan’s leading down manufacturers, beginning as Yokota Sewing in 1941 in Maibara, Shiga Prefecture, a famous production center for cotton futons. The down used in this new sleeping bag has been cleaned and refined using the newest technology, promising that this bedding will last for years to come.
Sleeping Bag
In addition to the blue, white, and red Doraemon-inspired coloring, the character’s famous collar also makes an appearance. Covered head to toe in motifs from the series, this bedding is also highly functional and warm.
Neckwear
The included storage bag is compact and able to fit in a backpack, measuring approximately 20cm x 40cm. Will you be adding these items to your camping pack this winter?
©Fujiko-Pro
Information
Doraemon Sleeping Bag/Neckwear
Purchase Sleeping Bag: https://www.pal-shop.jp/item/A55313004.html
Purchase Neckwear: https://www.pal-shop.jp/item/A55313005.html
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Doraemon’s Official Store Launches Limited Edition Dorayaki-Flavored Black Tea
15.November.2022 | ANIME&GAME / FOOD / SPOT
Doraemon’s Mirai Department Store, Doraemon’s official shop, has announced a limited edition black tea flavored with the character’s favorite food: dorayaki! The tea and four special themed plates will be available starting November 11, 2022. The tea itself is provided by the tea specialty shop LUPICIA.
Doraemon’s Mirai Department Store Black Tea (Dorayaki Flavor)
Doraemon’s Mirai Department Store is now offering this special tea in an adorable themed tin.
The flavor of the tea is inspired by Doraemon’s favorite food, dorayaki, a sweet Japanese pastry filled with red bean paste. The gorgeous blue and red toppings blended into the tea leaves were inspired by Doraemon himself, and fans will want to enjoy a cup as they lose themselves in the classic manga or anime series.
Doraemon’s Mirai Department Store Tasty Plate (4 varieties)
These 14cm square plates are perfect for snacks with tea. Dishwasher-safe, fans can pick from four designs, each showing Doraemon enjoying some tasty treats.
©Fujiko-Pro
Information
Doraemon’s Mirai Department Store
Venue: Diver City Tokyo Plaza 2F (1-1-10 Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo)
Hours: 11:00-20:00 (Weekdays) / 10:00-21:00 (Weekends/Holidays)
*Hours are subject to change.
Online Store: https://mirai-dora-world-online.com/
Official Site: https://mirai.dora-world.com/ -
Doraemon’s Official Shop Opens for a Limited Time at Daimaru Umeda
09.November.2022 | ANIME&GAME / FASHION / SPOT
From December 1, 2022 until May 28, 2023, Doraemon’s official shop will appear at Daimaru Umeda! Doraemon’s Mirai Department Store will offer a variety of limited-edition products for this brief period.
Doraemon’s Mirai Department Store Exclusive Goods (Selection)
Chenille Embroidered Tote Bag (Doraemon and Mini Doraemon): ¥3,520 (Tax Included)
This tote bag is decorated with lasting embroidery and is sure to brighten any Doraemon fan’s day. The shoulder-length handles are practical and each bag has excellent storage capacity!
Doraemon Striped Socks (Red/Green): ¥2,420 each (Tax Included)
These thick socks are sure to keep your feet warm during the cold winter months. The simple lines and chic colors make these a great gift for any age.
Come check out these exclusive items that you can only find here!
©Fujiko-Pro
Information
Doraemon’s Mirai Department Store in Daimaru Umeda 2022-2023
Running: December 1, 2022 – May 28, 2023
Venue: Daimaru Umeda 13F (3-1-1 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka)Hours: 10:00-20:00
Doraemon’s Mirai Department Store Official Site: https://mirai.dora-world.com/ -
Doraemon Ukiyo-e Series Reimagines Popular Characters in Classic Hiroshige Work
28.October.2022 | ANIME&GAME / FASHION
A Doraemon version of Hiroshige’s 1833 ukiyo-e painting Fifty-Three Stations of the Tokaido Hoeido Edition (Rainstorm) will be available to order on October 29!
This work is said to be one of the most famous paintings by the artist, who was considered the last great master of ukiyo-e.
The painter was best known for his depiction of rainscapes, and many of his paintings pushed the envelope of traditional art.
This painting shows Ise Province, what is now present-day Mie Prefecture.
Doraemon and his friends have been expertly placed into the famous piece of art, desperately climbing a steep hill during a sudden evening shower.
For Doraemon and Nobita, the rain is a chance to have fun. Looking at the piece, viewers can see an image of hope in tough times and can remember that with friends, anything is possible and any difficulties can be overcome.
The piece is made from high-quality materials, and you won’t want to miss ordering one of these rare works of art!
Information
Doraemon Ukiyo-e / Fifty-Three Stations of the Tokaido Hoeido Edition (Rainstorm)
Orders Open: October 29, 2022 at 12:00
Price: ¥45,000 (Excluding tax and shipping charges)
Number Available: 300
Echizen-Manufactured Washi Paper Provided by Iwano Ichibei
Online Shop: http://ukiyoework.com/ -
Keyakizaka Lights, a Tokyo Winter Tradition, to be Held Again in 2022
02.October.2022 | SPOT
From November 11 until December 25, 2022, Roppongi Hills Christmas will cover Tokyo in glittering lights once again. The Keyakizaka Lights, one of Tokyo’s most popular winter attractions, will also take place in 2022, with the 400-meter-long Keyakizaka street covered in over 800,000 blue and white LED lights.
For the first time in three years, the Mohri Garden will be covered in lights as well. The annual Christmas market will invite guests to experience an authentic German Christmas, and Christmas cakes and gourmet food unique to Roppongi Hills will be for sale.
The Roppongi Hills Christmas event utilizes LED lights and has done so since the first event was held in 2003. Clean power will be used again this year, and the lights will be switched on from 5 PM until 11 PM each night.
Information
Roppongi Hills Keyakizaka Lights
Running: November 10 – December 25, 2022 *Daily from 5:00 – 11:00 PM
*Lights may begin at a different time on November 10 only.
Location: Roppongi Keyakizaka Street
Official Site: https://www.roppongihills.com
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McDonald’s Japan Launches Festive Doraemon-Themed Summer Sweets
03.August.2022 | ANIME&GAME / FOOD
On August 5, McDonald’s Japan will begin selling some summer-only sweets! The McShake Doraemon Ramune and Doraemon Choco Banana Pie items are based on a summer festival, and the packaging will feature adorable Doraemon imagery.
These treats will bring back memories of summer festivals, with popular flavors like chocolate banana and ramune. Each sweet will be available in a total of six newly-designed packages, so you might need to buy a few until you get your favorite character!
McShake Doraemon Ramune
The McShake Doraemon Ramune features the nostalgic flavor of ramune and a creamy texture. Two types of ramune flavors were used to create a taste that will keep you coming back for more, and citrus flavors were added to create a refreshing flavor perfect for summer. This tasty treat is available in three versions–Doraemon, Nobita, and Gian.
Doraemon Chocolate Banana Pie
The Doraemon Chocolate Banana Pie consists of a crispy pie crust packed with banana filling and a rich chocolate sauce. Fans of Doraemon can grab this pie in three different sleeves–Dorami, Shizuka, and Suneo.
※Product images for illustration purposes only. Actual products may vary.
Happy Meal
Round 1: August 5 – August 11
Round 2: August 12 – August 18
In addition, Doraemon-related items will be packed with every Happy Meal starting August 5.
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Sailor Moon 30th Anniversary Museum to Feature Themed Cafe
30.June.2022 | ANIME&GAME / FOOD / SPOT
The Sailor Moon franchise’s 30th-anniversary museum will run from July 1 to December 30 at Tokyo’s Roppongi Museum. The series became a global phenomenon in the 1990s and remains incredibly popular with audiences around the world to this day.
Visitors to the museum can also enjoy the Sailor Moon Museum Cafe, which will offer delectable dishes inspired by the series!
Cosmic Heart Compact Dessert Plate: ¥1,730 (Tax Included)
This dessert plate features a colorful and fluffy recreation of Sailor Moon’s Cosmic Heart Compact. With raspberry mousse as a base, a crispy icing cookie sits on top.
Sailor Moon Museum Sliders: ¥1,850 (Tax Included)
The signature menu features sliders decorated with the museum’s logo along with a salad and soup inspired by one of the main character’s colors. Guests can enjoy two different sliders: steamed chicken basil sauce and shrimp and egg.
In the Name of the Moon, I’ll Punish You! Omurice: ¥1,650 (Tax Included)
This omurice features Sailor Moon’s classic silhouette and is finished with a rich and creamy white sauce. Served with a salad, this meal is well-balanced and very filling!
Sailor Soldier Rainbow Parfait: ¥1,480 (Tax Included)
This colorful parfait was inspired by Sailor Mercury, Sailor Mars, Sailor Jupiter, Sailor Venus, and Sailor Moon. Filled with fruits and jellies, this treat is filled with unique textures and tastes.Sailor Chibi Moon’s Pudding a la Mode: ¥1,630 (Tax Included)
This adorable arrangement of sweets inspired by Sailor Chibi Moon has a retro feel. Filled with strawberries, white peaches, and ice cream, this dessert will look great on social media!New menu items will be included during the second volume of the museum starting September 10, so stay tuned!
Come surround yourself with all things Sailor Moon! Which of these adorable treats do you want to try?
©Naoko Takeuchi
Information
Sailor Moon Museum
Running: July 1 – December 30, 2022
Vol.1: July 1 – September 4, 2022
Vol.2: September 10 – November 6, 2022
Vol.3: November 12 – December 30, 2022
*Closed September 5-9, November 7-11Hours: 10:00-18:00 (Last entry at 17:30)
Venue: Roppongi Museum (5-6-20 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
Official Site: sailormoon-museum.com
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Sailor Moon Museum Details Second Round of Exclusive Merchandise
25.June.2022 | ANIME&GAME / SPOT
The Sailor Moon franchise’s 30th-anniversary museum will run from July 1 to December 30 at Tokyo’s Roppongi Museum. The series became a global phenomenon in the 1990s and remains massively popular to this day.
The exhibition will feature the largest-ever exhibition of original illustrations by Sailor Moon’s creator Naoko Takeuchi, at over 600 pieces. The museum will have three phases, each swapping out different pieces, so fans can have a different experience depending on when they visit!The event will include an ‘immersive experience theater,’ which will display colored images on a massive 4.5 x 8-meter screen with special effects. Fans can also enjoy a ‘hologram manuscript exhibit,’ which will display the Sailor Scouts’ famous dialogue. Plenty of merchandise will also be available for purchase, with the second round of available goods just announced!
Original Merchandise (Second Lineup)
Clear Folder (’90s Anime Logo)
Clear Folder (Random, 5 varieties)
Masking Tape Holder
Masking Tape (Luna, Artemis & Diana)
Hat (’90s Anime Logo)
Cloth Shirt (’90s Anime Logo)
Aurora Sticker (Random, 10 varieties)
Reversible Cushion (Luna & Artemis)
Pochette (Luna)
Face Powder Collection (5 varieties)
The second round of original merchandise features many items utilizing the ‘90s anime logo, including a shirt, hat, and clear folders. A themed masking tape holder was made to resemble Sailor Moon’s Moon Stick, and the tape itself features the cats Luna, Artemis, and Diana.
The interior of the special store created for the exhibition was designed by Wataru LINDA Igarashi, an art director known for his cute pieces based on the concept of ‘window shopping.’
Come experience some serious nostalgia at the Sailor Moon museum later this year!
© Naoko Takeuchi
Information
Sailor Moon Museum
Running: July 1 – December 30, 2022
Vol.1: July 1 – September 4
Vol. 2: September 10 – November 6
Vol. 3: November 12 – December 30
Closed: September 5-9, November 7-11
Hours: 10:00-18:00 (Last entry at 17:30)
Venue: Roppongi Museum (5-6-20 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
Official Site: sailormoon-museum.com
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Tasty Half-Moon Sandwiches Coming in Second Doraemon Tokyo Banana Collaboration
18.April.2022 | ANIME&GAME / FOOD
Doraemon Tokyo Banana Half-Moon Sandwiches are coming on April 1, 2022! These tasty snacks come in a pack of eight and are sure to make the perfect gift.
This release of Doraemon Tokyo Banana is celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Tokyo Banana brand and the 50th anniversary of Doraemon. Why not enjoy your daily snack time with these cute treats?
Each sandwich is filled with chocolate-banana cream with the dough baked into a crispy, savory crust with a winking Doraemon on both sides.
©Fujiko-Pro,Shogakukan,TV-Asahi,Shin-ei,and ADK ※画像はイメージです
Information
Doraemon Tokyo Banana Half-Moon Sandwich
Where to Buy: JR Tokyo Station Hanagataya Tokyo Chuo Doraemon Tokyo Banana Tokyo Station, Daimaru Tokyo Tokyo Banana Studio 1F – STUDIO
Release Date: April 1, 2022
Details: https://www.tokyobanana.jp/products/banana_doraemon.htmlOfficial Site: https://www.tokyobanana.jp/
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‘Doraemon: Nobita’s Little Star Wars 2021’ Film Inspires Limited Edition Ukiyo-e Prints
05.April.2022 | ANIME&GAME / FASHION
Fans of Doraemon and traditional Japanese artwork won’t want to miss this special collaboration! On March 30, preorders will open for ukiyo-e prints inspired by the film ‘Doraemon: Nobita’s Little Star Wars 2021.’ These limited-edition pieces were created by Iwano Ichibei, a Living National Treasure.
The prints show Doraemon and friends along with the alien Papi and the special gadget the “Small Light.” The tool is giving off light depicted in a traditional Edo pattern believed to bring good luck, and the characters are shown inside its silhouette.
Ukiyo-e Woodblock Print Production
Engraving by Craftsman
Printing by Craftsman
First, a sketch is made, and a monochrome version of the print is carved. After carving a number of woodblocks for each color and using them to rub the painting tirelessly to bring it to life, one single woodblock print is completed.
The extremely delicate and advanced techniques these craftsmen utilize have been passed down from the Edo period. Imagine having one of these beautiful pieces hanging in your home!
Information
‘Doraemon: Nobita’s Little Star Wars 2021’ Commemorative Ukiyo-e Prints
Preorders Open: March 30, 2022
Price: ¥33,000 (Excluding Tax and Shipping Charges)Quantity: 300
Painter: Living National Treasure Iwano Ichibei
Online Shop: http://ukiyoework.com/