ZENON SAKABA is a new restaurant that will hold its grand opening in Kichijoji, Tokyo on November 28. It is managed by Zizoya, a sister company of the manga and anime production company Coamix, where they aim to “express manga through spaces.” This is done through setting up restaurants, bars and other establishments based on manga, such as Fist of the North Star and City Hunter.
It has already been 9 years since CAFE ZENON opened, a famous cafe in Kichijoji that brings to life the world of manga magazines. It is a bustling place that the Kichijoji-based manga publishing group opened at the underpass on the JR side of the station.
All drinks are served in wine glasses, and there’s even merchandise featuring original illustrations of Kenshiro and Raoh from Fist of the North Star and Ryo Saeba from City Hunters toasting at ZENON SAKABA.
Food includes red cattle from the city of Aso in Kumamoto Prefecture which is a very hard to come by red meat packed with the flavour, giant chicken which was at one point extinct, agar leek, pork from Amakusa and more. Each item on every plate has been carefully selected from Kumamoto and has a delicious story behind it. A proud line-up of other Kumamoto drinks and ingredients you don’t often encounter in Tokyo will also fill bellies including alcohol from Aso, highland vegetables, citrus fruits and more. An exquisite alcohol selection will also be available.
There’s even a charcoal grill where customers can cook and eat their own food. A highlight of the restaurant is how reasonable the prices are. You might even make some friends while cooking your food. The restaurant is also the proud owner of Kichijoji’s first alcohol vending machine. As well as all of this, there will be a limited-edition food sold each day by staff walking around.
There is manga, anime, jazz, a variety of troupes, performers from Inokashira Park. It’s a chance to fully immerse in Kichijoji’s culture. Expect exhibitions from a variety of performances as well as workshops, schools, lectures and more.
The staff at this restaurant aren’t just ordinary staff either. They consist of aspiring performers, comedians, actors, musicians and more.
Aso Red Beef: ¥1,300 (+Tax)
Agar Leek Ii Tokoyaki: ¥980 (+Tax)
Amakusa Pork Soup: ¥380 (+Tax)
Whether you’re looking for delicious food, want to experience something new, love amusing things―anything at all―look no further than ZENON SAKABA.
Information
ZENON SAKABA
Address: 2-11-1 Kichijoji Minamicho, Musashino, Tokyo
Opening Hours: Weekdays 17:00-00:00 / Weekends 15:00-00:00
Closed: New Year’s Holidays
TEL: 0422-27−2275
Official Website: https://zenon-sakaba.jp
RECOMMENDED ENTRIES
-
The bar streets such as “Golden Street” or “Omoide yokocho” that used to be the place where only heavy drinkers go are recently becoming more and more easier place to visit because of increasing the number of foreign tourists. However, I would like to recommend “Harmonica Yokocho” in Kichijoji for the people who feel anxious to go to those types of uncertain bar streets for the first time.
This place is also the same as the other bar district that was originaly black market after the world war. However, since they started making café and bar restaurant that young people can come in easily, people who has never come to the bar street started coming back to this place.
The first restaurant that you can feel free to enter is called “Harmonica kitchen.” It is a café and bar that you can not only use for girl’s meeting for lunch and also drink alcohol by yourself at night. They carry anything from hoppy to champagne. You eat light appetizer at this restaurant, and go to next one.
The next one is recently-opened Oden pub called “Iroha.” Just grab some small portions of snacks that go with sake dished up on colorful plates, and drink some shochu. This cheerful atmosphere pub is run by a young owner. The wonderful thing about this place is that you can drink shochu that already mixed with some water like the same as Kagoshima style which is the home of shochu. After you eat and warm up your body with some Oden that is made in Tukada Fisheries that is located in this Harmonica Yokocho, the next one is an old-established bar called “Sasa-no-Ha.” You should drink the sake called “Tsukasa-botan” made in Kochi prefecture and eat with large portions of fresh and tasty sashimi.
This is kind of a high-status restaurant that is different from previously mentioned “Harmonica kitchen” or “Sasa-no-ha”, but they are going to welcome you if you just behave politely even if you are a first timer.
There are a variety of kinds of bars for young people or older heavy drinkers. This bar street will welcome you.
■Harmonica Yokocho
Address: Musashino 1st Bldg. 1-31-6, Motomachi, Kichijoji, Musashino-shi, Tokyo
Kiwako Kurashima（”The Classic Bar” Editor in Chief）
−−−
■Related article：Why don’t you go bar hopping at “Omoide Yokocho”?
■Related article：Enjoy with your friends on New Year holidays at “Niku-Sakaba”
-
“Kotori Café” created under the theme of “a café where you can enjoy drinking coffee while watching birds,” collaborated with “Kanahei no Shodobutsu” created by the illustrator/manga artist, “Kanahei”and opened a collaborative café at each of their stores (Omotesando/Kichichoji/Sugamo/Shinsaibashi) starting from the 3rd of February 2018 (Sat.) until the 31st of March (Sat.). (the café will open from the 8th of February at the Kichijoji Store.)
Each Kotori Café has about 25 popular small birds including a poll parrot, a canary, a hook bill and a paddy bird. The space where the small birds are kept is separate from the interior of the café so the café is very clean. I am sure that those of you who love small birds will love this café.
The illustrator/manga artist,“Kanahei”has been producing LINE stamps, creates serialized mangas, sells original goods and produces adds for companies. “Kotori Café” which is collaborating with “Kanahei” will offer original menu itmes using the motifs of Pisuke and Usagi.
Original products including product using the motif of the parrot of “Kotori Café,” desserts and Kanahei’s small animal goods are being sold in the sundry section of the cafes.
Collaborative café – Omotesando & Sugamo limited menu
・Pisuke Cake & Drink Set 1,600 yen (Sugamo store is opened only on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays)
・Usagi Cake & Drink Set 1,600 yen (Sugamo store is opened only on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays)
Many other collaborative menu items and goods are available. Let’s check their original menu items and goods!
■information
Kotori Café Omotesando Store
Address: 6-3-7, Minami Aoyama, Minatoku, Tokyo
Business hours: 11:00 to 19:00
Fixed holiday: undecided
TEL：03-6427-5115
Kotori Café Kichijoji Store
Address: 1-14-7, Shimorenjaku, Mitakashi, Tokyo
Business hours: 10:30 to 18:00
Fixed holiday: undecided
TEL：0422-29-9224
Kotori Café Shinsaibashi Store
Address: Minami Senba BRICK 3F, 4-14-1, Minami Senba Chuoku, Osakashi, Osaka
Business hours: 11:00 to 19:00
Fixed holidays: undecided
Kotori Café Sugamo Store
Address: 3-18-13, Sugamo, Toshimaku, Tokyo
Business hours: 10:00 to 18:00
Fixed holiday: maintenance holiday – one day per month
TEL：03-6903-5084
Kotori Café URL：http://kotoricafe.jp
-
Have you ever heard the Japanese word senbero? It’s a combination of the words sen meaning ‘1000’ and berobero meaning ‘drunk.’
Recently, izakaya in Japan, especially in the Tokyo area, have been offering senbero services that let you get drunk for just ¥1,000. Let’s take a look at some of the best cost performance locations in Tokyo so you can get your money’s worth!
Motsuyaku Ban (Yutenji)
This place is known for having invented lemon sour, a standard Japanese cocktail made with shochu, soda and syrup. The lemon sours here cost ¥300 while the motsuyaku, or grilled giblets cost just ¥100. They serve a range of other items too such as innards stew, pig tail and more. You can get full quickly with just ¥1,000 here. We recommend this place if you want to eat a lot while drinking.
■Information
Motsuyaki Ban
Address: 2-8-17 Yutenji, Meguro, Tokyo
Opening Hours: [Monday-Friday] 4:00pm-11:00pm (Last Orders 10:15pm), [Saturday] 3:00pm-11:00pm (Last Orders 10:15pm), [Sunday] 3:00pm-10:00pm (Last Orders 9:15pm)
Closed: New Year’s Holiday, Obon
TEL：050-5869-3577
Website：http://www.motsuyakiban.com
Iseya (Kichijoji)
This yakitori restaurant is can be found in Kichijoji. You’ll know it by the red lanterns that dangle around the outside of the building. It’s famous with both locals and those outside the neighbourhood. You can enjoy grilled chicken skewers from ¥80 each. A lot of izakaya sell skewers in sets of two, but Iseya offers a range of sets. The cheapest alcohol they sell is shochu at ¥220, so this place it for those who wants to drink little by little while enjoying some delicious yakitori.
■Information
Iseya
Address: 1-2-1 Gotenyama, Musashino, Tokyo
Opening Hours: 12:00pm-10:00pm
Closed: Tuesdays
TEL：0422-47-1008
Website：http://www.kichijoji-iseya.jp
Sakaba Fukuro (Ikebukuro)
This famous pub has been open for more than 50 years. Their lemon highballs are ¥200 each and their Hoppy are ¥220 each. They serve izakaya classics like innards stew and chicken cartilage karaage as well as other dishes like whale. Food prices range from ¥300 to ¥800 so it might be a good idea to order several dishes with people and share.■Information
Sakaba Fukuro
Address: 1F-3F, 1-14-2 Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima, Tokyo 2F ・3F
Opening Hours: 8:00am-2:30pm (Last Orders 1:30pm), 3:00pm-12:00am (Last Orders 11:30pm)
No Fixed Holidays.
TEL：03-3986-2968
Oojiro (Shinbashi)
This place is popular for its super thick cut ham cutlet. Food and drink both average at around ¥300. You can also get shochu highballs and sours for ¥300 each too, making this easy on the wallets of those who want to drink a lot. If you make this your second stop on your drinking crawl you can make drinks within ¥1,000 easily!
■Information
Oojiro
Address: 3-10-6 Shinbashi, Minato, Tokyo
Opening Hours: 4:00pm-11:00pm
Closed: Weekends & Holidays
TEL：03-3431-0708
Sake Tachinomi Kitaya (Akabane)
You’ll spot Kitaya by its deep blue entrance curtain and glowing red lanterns. They offer plates upon plates of creative dishes at the first floor counter. The food menu changes daily too, so you can look forward to enjoying a different experience each time. They sell fresh tuna straight from the famous Tsukiji fish market every morning at a mind-blowing ¥160!■Information
Sake Tachinomi Kitaya
Address: 1-8-1 Akabaneminami, Kita, Tokyo
Opening Hours: [Monday-Friday] 9:00am-11:00pm, [Saturday] 7:00am-11:00pm, [Sunday] 7:00am-10:00pm
No Fixed Holidays.
TEL：03-3901-4767
Senbero isn’t only cheap, it also offers up a very satisfying izakaya experience. Be sure to try out lots of different izakaya while in Japan while looking for the best value for your money.
RELATED ENTRIES
-
The smartphone game Fist of the North Star: LEGENDS ReVIVE has been downloaded over 2 million times. To celebrate, a collaboration cafe will open at CAFEZENON & ZENON SAKABA in Kichijoji, Tokyo from September 20 until October 3, 2022.
Menu
Trial of the Fist! Super Spicy Soup
Zako’s Rice & Kalbi
Giant Hag’s Bavarian Cream
Mohawk’s Drink
Giant Hag’s Strange Water
Fans of the game and the long-running series can enjoy a variety of menu items inspired by characters from the series. From Super Spicy Soup to Rice and Kalbi, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
An original Giant Hag sticker will be given away with each order, so why not get yours while you have the chance?
©武論尊・原哲夫／コアミックス 1983 版権許諾証GC-218 ©SEGA
Information
Fist of the North Star: LEGENDS ReVIVE Collaboration Cafe
End of the Century Bar ~Giant Hag’s Bar~Running: September 20 – October 3, 2022
Venue: CAFEZENON & ZENON SAKABA
(2-11-1 Kichijoji Minami-cho, Musashino, Tokyo)
Hours: 11:30-23:00 -
In conjunction with the 65th Anniversary Miffy Exhibition currently being held at the PLAY! MUSEUM in Tachikawa, a special silkscreen workshop is coming only to PLAY! KICHIJOJI! The event, called A Little Kindness in Kichijoji, is currently open for reservations, and will be open each Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until September 5, 2021.
Dick Bruna, the creator of Miffy, often created posters using silk-screening. At the workshop, guests can choose from three different patterns and print their choice on either their own cloth and paper products, or on PLAY! goods. Each Sunday, illustrations from the book Miffy in the Snow can be printed on craft paper multiple times, eventually creating a colored Miffy! During the workshop, guests are asked to try making their own original goods using this time-honored silk-screen technique. No cheating!
At the venue, visitors can take their time reading stories from reporter Shunji Morimoto, who interviewed Bruma countless times. Each tale from his book A Little Kindness: 66 Stories will be available to browse and buy, along with a slide show of Miffy photographs taken by photographer Kotori Kawashima. Various original goods will also be on sale, so keep an eye out!
Won’t you come celebrate our favorite bunny’s birthday?
Illustrations Dick Bruna © copyright Mercis bv,1953-2021 www.miffy.com
Information
A Little Kindness in Kichijoji
Running: August 6, 2021-September 5, 2021
Location: PLAY! KICHIJOJI
Address: MM Kichijoji Building 1F, 2-28-5 Kichijoji Honcho, Musashino, Tokyo
Reservations: https://bluesheep.theshop.jp
Details: https://play2020.jp/article/miffy-silkscreen/
Official Site: https://play2020.jp/
-
TOKYO SENTO Festival 2020 is taking place as part of Tokyo Tokyo FESTIVAL, an initiative that’s hosting a diverse selection of of cultural programs in the run up to the Tokyo Olympics, promoting its appeal as a city of arts and culture.
The project launched on May 26 at 500 sento in Tokyo. It covers many forms of Japanese art from manga, to Art Brut (outsider art), contemporary art, popular characters,
and more, all of which are serving to create artistic bathhouses. Two artists to look out for are their Art Brut to Haginoyu in Tokyo.
Art Brut is an art based on original methods and ideas that are not confined to existing expression methods. “Abundance comes from human connections” will be performed by Takeru Aoki and Kiyomi Hoshi.
If you’re in Tokyo this spring and summer, don’t miss out on the Tokyo Sento Festival.
Information
TOKYO SENTO Festival 2020
Running: May 26, 2021 – September 5, 2021
Where: Bathhouses in Tokyo
Art Brut Special Hand Towel Exchange Period: August 5, 2021 – September 5, 2021
Official Website: https://tokyosentofestival.jp/
*Content subject to change depending on COVID-19 -
BS TV Tokyo is celebrating Japan’s Cat Day, which falls on February 22, by opening pop-up shops at ten Book1st stores and two Marui stores which will run from February 1 to 28.
The pop-up shops will feature a feline-filled wealth of reading material and merchandise based on popular cat characters in Japan, like Tom & Jerry, Kuroro, Nanana, and more. And if you head to the Nakano branch of Book1st and visit their 2nd floor cafe “Cafe nota nova,” there’ll be some decorative cat-themed displays on show. During the pop-up shops’ openings, all who buy goods and books related to the event will receive a free folder too.
If you love cats, and are in Japan this month, then don’t miss out on this special event in the run up to Cat Day!
Information
Cat Day Pop-Up Shops
Running: February 1, 2021 – February 28, 2021Book1st Participating Branch List
Locations: Shinjuku, Nakano, Aobadai, LUMINE Kita-Senju, LUMINE Kagagoe, Mosaic Mall Kohoku, Shapo Ichikawa, Bono Sagamiono, Hankyu Nishinomiya Gardens, Ebista Nishinomiya
Running: February 1, 2021 – February 28, 2021
Marui Participating Branch List
Marui Kichijoji (February 16 – 28)
Shinjuku Marui Annex (February 22 – 28)
Event Details: https://www.bs-tvtokyo.co.jp/catday2021/
-
The Japanese fresh cream dessert cafe Milk has teamed up with the hit film Poupelle of Chimney Town to whip up a special dessert it’s calling the Poupelle Cake at Kichijoji Colonial Garden until the end of February.
Poupelle Cake | ¥880 (Before Tax)
Kichijoji Colonial Garden
The collaboration came about as STUDIO4℃, the studio behind the hit film, is based in Kichijoji. The dessert features loaded pancakes inspired by the town the film is set in, Chimney Town.
Information
Poupelle of Chimney Town x Milk Collab Dessert
Running: January 23, 2021 – Late February 2021
Available: Kichijoji Colonial Garden
Opening Hours: 11:00-20:00 (From February 7, open until 22:30)
Address: 1-11-5 Kichijoji Honcho, Musashino, Tokyo
TEL: 0422-28-0707
Official Website: http://www.opefac.com/store/colonial/index.html -
Some new information has finally arrived for Frontier Works’s upcoming web anime series To-totsuni Egypt Kami.
Synopsis: To-totsuni Egypt Kami
Who would have thought that the Egyptian gods could be kawaii? Well, that’s exactly what they’ve become in To-totsuni Egypt Kami, a series set in Ancient Egypt where the Egyptian deities, like Anubis, Thoth, Bastet, and Ra live laid-back and relaxed lives. The series is adapted from a popular line of character mascots of the same name.
Japanese actor Tomoya Nakamura has been confirmed as the narrator for the web anime series, whose warm and gentle voice will convey the chilled lives of the Egyptian pantheon of gods.
Tomoya Nakamura – Comment
“I think we’ll see a domino effect with the number of people who will find themselves healed by these adorable and mysteries Egyptian gods. I hope you’re sat back, relaxed, and looking forward to it.”
To-totsuni Egypt Kami main voice cast
The full voice cast for To-totsuni Egypt Kami has finally been revealed, along with comments from the members. Here are some words from the main cast.
Hikaru Midorikawa – Comment
Medjed | Hikaru Midorikawa
“Everything about [Medjed] is riddled in mystery. His movements are bizarre , and nobody can predict what he’s going to do next. And for his finishing move, he can… shoot a laser beam from his eyes? I think for an anime series, the movements of the gods make them that much more charming.”
Nobunaga Shimazaki – Comment
Horus | Nobunaga Shimazaki
“Horus is a very powerful god with the head of a falcon. He’s also a hard worker who works a busy part-time job day and night. He doesn’t get along with Set who he fights with a lot. The world of ‘To-totsuni Egypt Kami’ is really pop and cute, but somewhat mysterious. It would delight be if you enjoyed it in a laid-back manner.”
Hiroyuki Yoshino – Comment
Set | Hiroyuki Yoshino
“The god of destruction. He doesn’t get along with Horus and always tricks and harasses him. But his appearance makes you feel calm… I guess you’ll have to look forward to the anime series to see!”
Kenjiro Tsuda – Comment
Ra | Kenjiro Tsuda
“Ra, the god of the sun. He’s the father of everyone. He likes to sail a lot and bring back souvenirs for everyone, but there’s something more to him… Sit back and look forward to it!”
*Comments translated from Japanese by MMN
Initial Broadcast: December 2020
The series will began airing online this December, including on YouTube. It is being directed by Katsuya Kikuchi (The Royal Tutor), with series composition by Yūichirō Higashide (Fate/Apocrypha; Fate/Grand Order – Absolute Demonic Front: Babylonia), and character designs and animation direction by Suzuna Okuyama (The Royal Tutor). Check out the promotional video below.
Themed cafe in collaboration with Animate Cafe Gratte
Gratte cookie design
Several branches of Animate Cafe Gratte in Japan are collaborating with To-totsuni Egypt Kami to serve themed food and drinks.
To-totsuni Egypt Kami x Gratte
Running: September 19, 2020 – November 8, 2020
Participating Branches: Animate Cafe Shibuya / Kichijoji PARCO / Sendai / Osaka Nipponbashi / Okuyama
©yuka/To-totsuni Egypt Kami Project
Information
To-totsuni Egypt Kami
Initial Broadcast: December 2020
Watch On: YouTube, GYAO!, Bandai Channel, FOD, ABEMA, d Anime Store, U-NEXT
Official Website: https://to-to2ni-anime.jp
-
Japanese black tea brand Lipton is opening two pop-up tea stands this summer called “Lipton TEA STAND Fruits in Tea.” They will open in Daikanyama and Osaka from July 10 and Kichijoji from September 13.
Lipton opened its two permanent tea stands “Lipton TEA STAND” in Nagoya and Hakata in winter 2018 in an effort to make black tea more accessible to people. The drinks menus at these stands are diverse, ranging from simple black tea to their “Fruits in Tea” range which are teas filled with fresh fruits, royal milk tea, desserts, and more.
Iced Parfaits
Passion Fruits: ¥1,200 (Tax Included) (+¥150 for honey milk) / Strawberry: ¥1,200 (Tax Included) (+¥150 for condensed milk)Lipton’s “Fruits in Tea” opened as a new way for people to enjoy black tea in summertime. With the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, Lipton has decided to whip up some refreshing “Happy!” new iced parfaits for beating the hot weather. Their popular custom menu lets you a variety of vitamin-packed fruits, herbs, and more to your iced tea.
Frozen tea is the base of the iced parfait and retains the original flavour of the black tea. Added to that is ice and fruits inside a tumbler, all of which is layered to look like a parfait with a shaved iced quality to it. The “Passion Fruits” flavour is topped with passion fruit syrup and frozen lemon, orange, and kiwi, while the sweet and sour “Strawberry” is a mix of strawberry syrup and frozen strawberries, oranges, and limes. Both options are sure to keep you cool during the hot Japanese summer.
Original Iced Tea “Fruits in Tea”: Tumbler ¥1,000 (Tax Included) / Cup ¥600 (Tax Included)
Lipton’s popular custom menu lets you choose from four tea bases, like Earl Grey and green tea. You can then pick your base fruits, like pineapple or strawberry, topping fruits such as kiwi and mango, and then a special flavour like mint. Finally, choose your syrup, such as lemon, and you’v got your own custom beverage for the summertime.
Information
Lipton TEA STAND Fruits in Tea
DAIKANYAMA
Location: Sign Daikanyama (Daikanyama Station, 19-4 Daikanyamacho, Shibuya, Tokyo)
Running: July 10, 2020 – August 30, 2020Opening Hours: 11:00-20:00
KICHIJOJI
Location: Sign Kichijoji (Atre Kichijoji Honkan 1F, 1-1-24 Kichijoji Minamicho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo)Running: September 13, 2020 – September 22, 2020
Opening Hours: 11:00-20:00
OSAKA
Location: Diamor Osaka (Diamond Floor B1F, Osaka-eki-mae, 1-10 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka)Running: July 10, 2020 – September 22, 2020 (Closed August 19, 2020)
Opening Hours: 10:00-21:00
Fruits in Tea Official Website: http://brand.lipton.jp/leaf/fruits_in_tea/
-
A cafe themed on Eric Carle’s internationally beloved children’s picture book The Very Hungry Caterpillar Cafe is set to open at Sunday Branch in Kichijoji PARCO in Tokyo on April 1, 2020 where it’s set to run for an entire year, ending on March 31, 2021. Today, we finally get a look at the cafe’s menu line-up.
The picture book has seen its fair share of themed cafes, with the first having taken place in Ginza back in 2018, which was so popular that customers had to book a month in advance to dine there. The cafe was always fully booked.
The franchise also collaborated with multiple branches of J.S. Pancakes from October 2018 to January 2019, and again at Cafe Cucina in Shibuya from March to April last year.
The concept for the new cafe opening in Tokyo’s Kichijouji district is “Fruit Parlour.” Look forward to munching your way through an assortment of fruit-filled sandwiches, pudding
à la mode, and moreーall of which are packed full of The Very Hungry Caterpillar’s favourite fruits.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar’s Fruit Curry (*Price TBA)
Very Hungry Plate (*Price TBA)
Meals on the menu are inspired by the fruits the caterpillar ate each dayーwhich have been recreated using rice! The fruit curry is made with lots of apple, mango, and tomato. It’s a pork curry that has a fruity flavour and a subtle sweetness. If you don’t like spicy curries, then this dish is the one for you.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar’s Kid’s Plate (w/Drink) (*Price TBA)
The menu is also packed with food for kids, like this kid’s plate which comes with a chicken and broccoli tomato pasta, mini pancakes, and a side of fruit. There’s also baby food, like a thin rice porridge made with soft rice and vegetables.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar’s Fruit Sandwich (*Price TBA)
The Very Hungry Caterpillar’s Cheesecake (*Price TBA)
Of course, this tasty menu wouldn’t be complete without a long list of drinks and desserts. There’s the adorable fruit sandwich which recreates the caterpillar’s body, and a New York-style cheesecake topped with artistic cookies made with vegetables and spicesーand all with natural colourings.
This is just a small teaser of what’s to come at The Very Hungry Caterpillar Cafe in Kichijouji; they have promised there will be even more. Their website will go live on March 18, but you can follow them at their social media with the links below.
Information
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Cafe in Kichijoji
Running: April 1, 2020 – March 31, 2021 (subject to change)
Location: Sunday Brunch, Kichijoji PARCO Floor 4F (1-5-1 Kichijoji Honcho, Musashino, Tokyo)
Official Website: Live from March 18, 2020
Official Twitter: https://twitter.com/harapecocafe20
Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harapecocafe2020/
Official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harapecocafe2020/
-
A cafe themed on Eric Carle’s internationally beloved children’s picture book The Very Hungry Caterpillar Cafe is set to open at Sunday Branch in Kichijoji PARCO in Tokyo on April 1, 2020 where it’s set to run for an entire year, ending on March 31, 2021.
The picture book has seen its fair share of themed cafes, with the first having taken place in Ginza back in 2018, which was so popular that customers had to book a month in advance to dine there. The cafe was always fully booked.
The franchise also collaborated with multiple branches of J.S. Pancakes from October 2018 to January 2019, and again at Cafe Cucina in Shibuya from March to April last year.
Now returning once again, the Kichijoji cafe is set to see a completely new menu.
“Fruit parlour” is the concept of this cafe, which will have a menu line-up centred on the caterpillar’s favourite fruits. The menu will change for each season, ensuring that the fruits themselves are in-season and therefore at their most delicious. It will bring to life the colourful and vivid world of Eric Carle right onto your plate.
The menu will also sell “art cookies” which will derive their colour from natural ingredients.
The cafe decorations will make for Instagram-worthy posts, the caterpillar himself will be ready to greet customers at tables in the form of plush toys. It will be like stepping into the world of the picture book and will absolutely be enjoyed by kids and adults alike.
Sunday Brunch has teamed up with The Very Hungry Caterpillar before, as well as Shaun the Sheep, to open limited-time cafes that were hugely successful. Now the caterpillar is heading to Kichijoji. If you’re travelling to Tokyo between April this year and March this year, don’t miss out on a visit!
TM & © 2020 Eric Carle LLC.
Information
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Cafe in Kichijoji
Running: April 1, 2020 – March 31, 2021 (subject to change)
Location: Sunday Brunch, Kichijoji PARCO Floor 4F
Twitter: https://twitter.com/harapecocafe20
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harapecocafe2020/
-
Capy Neko Cafe is the newest animal cafe to hit Tokyo. Located in the neighbourhood of Kichijoji, right by the station, customers are able to interact with both cats and capybara at the same time.
Japan is famous for its host of animal cafes, from the ubiquitous cat cafes to more unique ones like the owl cafe. But Capy Neko Cafe stands out from the rest as being the first cafe in Japan to combine cats and capybara.
You might wonder whether it’s actually safe to pet a capybara. They may be the largest rodent in the world, but they in fact loved to be pet by people. They are gentle creatures that get on with and can live alongside cats. At the cafe, you can take photos of the capybara who are sure to be chilling on the sofas as well as feed them. The comfy environment also means that they’ll feel like your very own pet capybara at home.
▶︎Tawashi (Male)
Tawashi is a sensitive, affectionate, and gentle guy. He loves snacks, and he’s sure to flop down if you start petting him on the butt. Part of his daily routine is having an afternoon nap on the sofa together with the cats.
▶︎Dan (Male)
The vice store manager of Capy Neko Cafe. He adores humans. He’s the kind of guy who’ll probably jump up onto you if you cover your lap with a blanket and sit on the sofa.
▶︎Emma (Female)
Another member with a soft spot for humans, Emma is reserved kitty who lets everybody eat their food first. She’s a needy and spoiled girlーif she’s on your lap, you’re not getting up. She’s siblings with Dan.
▶︎Cream (Male)
Cream is everybody’s idol. He’s unapologetically spoiled and a handsome guy with perfectly round black pupils.
This list is just a small taste of the many cute residents to meet at Capy Neko Cafe. The cafe is also active in finding families for their rescued cats. The number of people who want to own a cat in Japan are looking to rescues now instead of pet shops. At Capy Neko Cafe, you get the best of both worlds: you can meet and interact with a cat and see if they’re a good match for you.
If you’re interested in visiting Capy Neko Cafe, keep in mind that priority goes to those who have booked in advance. This can be done via their official website, so book first and look forward to kicking back and enjoying a cup of tea, coffee or soft drink before interacting with the cats and capybara!
Information
Capy Neko Cafe
Address: PLATANO Floor 2F, 1-5-10 Kichijōji Minamichō, Musashino, Tokyo
Business Hours: 12:00-18:00
Closed: Wednesdays
Official Website: https://capyneko.cafe/
-
Otona no Jump Sakaba (“Grown-Up’s Jump Bar”) is an izakaya-style eatery which opened in the Kabukicho area of Shinjuku to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the beloved manga magazine Weekly Shonen Jump.
Every week, kids and adults alike anticipate the release of their favourite manga series in the serialised magazine. The adults who grew up with the classic series get to eat like a hero at the bar, with meals and decorations inspired by various series including Dragon Ball, Kinnikuman, Fist of the North Star, Saint Seiya: Knights of the Zodiac, Sakigake!! Otokojuku, Rokudenashi Blues, City Hunter, and more.
The bar has now announced its plans for an end-of-year party, with tickets going on sale on December 2, 2019 for the first 1,000 people who sign up.
The New Year party plan comes with a choice of two different small pot meals.
Fans can also get their hands on a 2020 schedule book featuring designs of the series characters for different celebratory days throughout next year. This is the only chance to get this exclusive item.
©Yude Tamago/Shueisha ©Akira Miyashita/Shueisha ©Tsukasa Hojo/NSP 1985 ©Masami Kurumada/Shueisha ©Bird Studio／Shueisha ©Buronson・Tetsuo Hara/NSP 1983 ©Masanori Morita/Shueisha ©Ryūji Tsugihara/NSP 1982 ©Koichi Endo/Shueisha ©Masaya Tokuhiro/Shueisha
Inside the bar you’ll find wall posters, giant figurines, treasured items of manga artists, and more. You can even read actual Jump manga from the 80s.
©Bird Studio/Shueisha ©Buronson・Tetsuo Hara/NSP 1983
As well as the above-mentioned New Year meals, there are lots of dishes inspired by various Jump series too. Those who purchase one of these Jump meals will receive a free exclusive sticker.
Information
End Of Year Plan
Includes: 2 hour time slot. Choice of either a seafood salt dish or beef sukiyaki dish. Includes 10 side dishes and all-you-can-drink line-up of 54 beverages
Price: ¥3,500 per person (Tax Included)Bonus Item: 2020 Schedule Book
Booking: Via the online website
Notes:
・People in groups must order the same course
・Last orders are 30 minutes before your slot endsBookings: https://yoyaku.toreta.in/otonano-jumpsakaba/
Otona no Jump Sakaba
Address: WaMall Kabukicho 5F, 1-18-9 Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo
Opening Hours: Weekdays 17:00-23:00 (Last Orders 22:30) / Weekends & Holidays 14:00-23:00 (Last Orders 22:30)
*Hours change weekend hours from December 28-31, 2019
Official Website: https://otonano-jumpsakaba.com/
-
Hi, readers! It’s Midori, from MMN’s editorial team.
When thinking about summer, one of the first things that springs to mind are beer gardens! Drinking a cold beer outdoors on a hot summer’s day is a special kind of delicious. More and more beer garden events appear in Japan every year, the vibe and atmosphere is different for each depending on where you are.
Today, I’ve compiled for you 5 must-visit beer gardens in Tokyo for summer 2019.
Heineken Kirin Beer Garden: Enjoy a lamb BBQ at Kichijoji Daiichi Hotel
This beer garden is being hosted in a BBQ style. Enjoy a two-hour all-you-can-drink course with either a Jingisukan BBQ or oil ponzu fondue as well as a selection of à la carte that go perfectly with the beer on offer. Look out for the lamb BBQ as well, a hugely popular choice every year at the hotel.
▼Kichijoji Daiichi Hotel – “Heineken Kirin Beer Garden”
Location: Kichijoji Daiichi Hotel Floor 8F Garden Terrace (Entrance at floor 7F)
Address: 2-4-14 Honcho, Kichijoji, Musashino, Tokyo
Running: May 24, 2019 – September 1, 2019 (*Closed on Mondays between May 24 – June 30)
Time: 17:00-21:30 (Last Orders 21:00)Website: https://www.hankyu-hotel.com/hotel/dh/kichijojidh/
Honoo Bulgogi vs. Tamashii Hot Pot: Ikebukuro Tobu Beer Garden
The Tobu Department Store in Ikebukuro is set to serve up its popular bulgogi nabe on the building rooftop. This year also sees the introducing of a new hot pot. Women can also enjoy a discount price on the bulgogi nabe even cheaper than previous years. There is also an happy hour service where all customers can enjoy reduced prices. If you’re looking for affordable prices then look no further!
▼Honoo Bulgogi vs. Tamashii Hot Pot: Ikebukuro Tobu Beer Garden
Location: Tobu Department Store Ikebukuro Floor 16F Rooftop
Address: 1-1-25 Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima Ward, Tokyo
Running: April 24, 2019 – September 1, 2019
Time: 17:00-23:00 (Last orders for à la carte and drinks at 22:00)
Reservations: Via telephone or online. Reservations must be for 2+ people.Website: http://www.tobu-dept.jp/ikebukuro/
Beer Garden With an Unbroken View Of the Sea at InterContinental Yokohama Grand
InterContinental Yokohama Grand is bringing its hugely popular beer garden Hama Beer back to Yokohama Minato Mirai again this year. Look forward to tucking into some authentic delights at the hotel terrace with a panoramic view of the Yokohama sea. They also serve a variety of non-alcoholic cocktails too. I recommend this one if you’re looking for a romantic, slightly more adult beer garden experience.
▼InterContinental Yokohama Grand Beer Garden
Location: InterContinental Yokohama Grand Floor 1F Outdoor Terrace (*Location will change if it rains)
Address: 1-1-1 Minato Mirai, Nishi Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture
Running: June 14, 2019 – September 16, 2019 (*Except on days when there are scheduled events)Time: [Mon-Thur] 18:00-21:00 / [Fri-Sun & Hols] 17:00-21:30
Website: https://www.interconti.co.jp/yokohama/
Machida MODI at Renewed “Sky Beer Garden” With Projection Show
The Sky Beer Garden atop Machida MODI has reopened after renovations. A projection show is taking place on the building wall as part of the beer garden. On the official homepage, people can also sign up to have a message projected onto the wall. 7 people will be randomly selected per day. This would be perfect as a surprise to that special someone! You can also enjoy the beer garden at a discounted price if you follow them on Instagram.
▼Sky Beer Garden
Location: LUGAR HA AMOR
Address: Machida MODI Rooftop, 6-2-6 Haramachida, Machida, Tokyo
Running: April 27, 2019 – September 29, 2019TEL: 042-812-2580
Website: https://www.0101.co.jp/723/
SKY PARADISE BEER GARDEN: Delicious steak and more at Isetan Shinjuku
At Isetan Shinjuku’s stylish SKY PARADISE BEER GARDEN visitors can enjoy steak from Steak NO.1 STEAK THE FIRST. The drinks menu also includes beverages other than beer, so if you’re not a beer person then I definitely recommend this one. It is being held on the rooftop too so you can enjoy dining in the warm late afternoon and evening outdoors in Tokyo.
▼SKY PARADISE BEER GARDEN
Location: Isetan Shinjuku Rooftop
Address: 4-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo
Running: June 12, 2019 – September 16, 2019
Time: [Mon-Thur] 16:00-22:00 / [Fri-Sun & Hols] 11:30-22:00 (Last Orders – Food 21:00/Drink 21:30)
TEL: 03-6890-0199 (11:30-20:00)Website: https://www.isetan.mistore.jp/shinjuku.html
There are many different unique beer gardens being held this year, so pick the one that suits you most and cool yourself off this summer in Tokyo♡
