Snaplace is a website that analyses posts on social media they they deem ‘Instagrammable.’ They have close to 6,000 spots listed on their website, and they have selected the very best from their data this year to make two Top 10 lists for 2018 – one for Instagram and one for Twitter.
Instagram Top 10
1st Place: Yasaka Kōshin-dō (Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture)
Coming in at No. 1 is Yasaka Kōshin-dō, a small temple in Kyoto dedicated to Shomen Kongo, a guardian warrior, and three wise monkeys. The temple is known by locals for the colourful cloth balls that decorate the site called “kukurizaru” on which worshippers write their wishes and hang them. There is a rental kimono place close to this temple, making it the perfect spot to snap some photos.
2nd Place: Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine (Kawagoe, Saitama)
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is a popular spot with Japanese women for being a shrine of love. There, you can get your hands on special charms and fortunes based on the East Asian concept of the ‘red string of fate’ which binds together two people destined to meet. There’s a stylish cafe and in summer they set up a corridor of wind chimes as shown in the photo. There’s lots of places to take pictures here.
3rd Place: BE KOBE (Kobe, Hyogo)
The “BE KOBE” sign was built in April 2017 and was seen much across student social media during its first year. You can see lots of high school students take photos here on school trips to Kobe from October to March. This spot was initially popular with just students but its recognition began to spread amongst the masses and today taking a picture there is a must-do when visiting Kobe. On a busy day you can be waiting over 30 minutes to get one.
4th Place: La Collina (Omihachiman, Shiga)
La Collina is a confectionery factory that sells a range of exclusive sweets and confections including baumkuchen. This cute place looks like something out of a fairy tale and is noted for its post-worthy treats and chic, otherworldly architecture. Its spread on social media came from the fact that the building can easily make it look like you’ve been transported to another world. It has a real Studio Ghibli vibe to it with its grassy roof and surrounding natural environment.
5th Place: Sakushima (Nishio, Aichi)
6th Place: 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art (Kanazawa, Ishikawa)
7th Place: Sarushima (Yokosuka, Kanagawa)
8th Place: Sankoinari Shrine (Inuyama, Aichi)
9th Place: Site Of Reversible Destiny (Yoro, Gifu)
10th Place: Shima Mediterranean Village (Shima, Mie)
Twitter Top 10
1st Place: Ōkunoshima (Takehara, Hiroshima)
Ōkunoshima is sometimes called “Poison Gas Island” for its role in World War II as a poison gas factory. But it is more known for being called “Rabbit Island” due to the number of feral rabbits living there. Around 700 roam the island, so it’s become a popular spot for taking photos.
2nd Place: Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum (Katsuyama, Fukui)
This museum is the biggest dinosaur museum in Japan and is renowned across Asia for its dinosaur fossil and specimen display. The gigantic realistic dinosaur models have hit it big on Japanese social media.
3rd Place: Ushiku Daibutsu (Ushiki, Ibaraki)
Ushiku Daibutsu was originally the tallest statue in the world from 1993-2002, even making it into the Guinness World Records. As of 2018 it is now one of the five tallest statues in the world. A photo of this Buddha looks like something from another world which led to its surging popularity on social media.
4th Place: Yasui Konpiragu Shrine (Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture)
The Yasui Konpiragu Shrine is home to a large stone which is associated with binding good relationships tighter and severing bad ones. You first write your wishes on a piece of paper. If you want to initiate a good relationship then you must crawl through the hole in the stone from front to back while holding the paper. To end a bad relationship you crawl from back to front. The ritual is completed by sticking the paper onto the stone.
5th Place: Shimizu Koen (Noda, Chiba)
6th Place: Sand Museum (Tottori, Tottori Prefecture)
7th Place: Mikane-Jinja Shrine (Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture)
8th Place: Nanzo-in (Kasuya District, Fukuoka)
9th Place: North Safari Sapporo (Sappoto, Hokkaido)
10th Place: Momotaro Shrine (Inuyama, Aichi)
Use this list as reference when in Japan to get the very best photos for showing off your trip!
Information
Snaplace Social Media Top 10 Ranking: https://snaplace.jp/snsbaeranking/
Other Services
Snaplace Talent (Japan’s Biggest Instagrammer Casting Service): https://snaplace.biz
Snaplace Monitor (Social Listening Tool): https://snaplace-m.jp/
Snaplace Media (Instagrammer Discovery): https://snaplace-corp.jp/photomedia/
RECOMMENDED ENTRIES
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Rainbow sweets are now trending. As well as being very popular overseas, a large variety of shops that sell rainbow sweets have also been opening in Japan. Today we’ll be looking at rainbow sweets that you can eat in Tokyo! The impact of their vivid colours makes them perfect for an Instagram shot!
LE SHINER (Takeshita Street, Harajuku)
This shop has appeared many times on TV for its Instagram-worthy aesthetics. The pink bear is a real eye-catcher! The exterior is also cute ♡
The shop’s speciality is the rainbow soft serve ice cream. Colourful rainbow ice cream spirals around the base of pink ice cream.
Their colourful menu also includes rainbow cake sticks, rainbow sandwiches and much more!
Further information: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/ja/93444
◼︎Information
LE SHINER (レ・シヤナー)
Address: COXY176 Building 1st floor, 1-7-10, Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
Opening hours: Weekdays – 11:00 — 18:00 / Weekends & national holidays – 10:30 — 19:00
Access: 3-minute walk from Harajuku station Takeshita Street exit (JR Yamanote line)/ 4-minute walk from the 5th exit of Meiji-Jingumae Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda line)
TEL：070-1361-8686
Totti Candy Factory (Takeshita Street, Harajuku)
Totti Candy Factory has cute petit cakes, cotton candy and much more. There must be so many people who have tried this! Whatever you may have heard about this place, their showstopper is definitely the huge colourful cotton candy!
If you’re looking for a present or souvenir, we recommend you get one in a cup!
◼︎Information
Totti Candy Factory
Address: RYU Apartment 2nd floor, 1-16-5, Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
Opening hours: Weekdays – 11:00 — 20:00
Weekends & national holidays: 10:00 — 20:00
Access: 3-minute walk from Harajuku station Takeshita Exit (JR Yamanote line)
TEL：03-3403-7007
The KAWAII MONSTER CAFE is a new famous spot in Harajuku that has attracted many from all over the world.
One of their specialities is the colourful poison parfait, which is a photogenic masterpiece that is topped with ice cream, fruit, and even a piece of roll cake.
There are even rainbow cakes, rainbow pasta dishes, and much more!
Further information: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/ja/64096
◼︎Information
KAWAII MONSTER CAFE（カワイイモンスターカフェ）
Address: YM Square 4th floor, 4-31-10, Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
Opening hours: Lunch: 11.30 — 16:30 (last orders: 16:00 ), dinner: 18:00 — 22:30 (last orders: 22:00) (Monday — Saturday and the day before national holidays
※ 90-minute seating slots, last entry: 15:30
Sundays & national holidays 11:00 — 20:00（Last orders: 19:30）
No regular closing days. It is possible that customers will not be allowed to enter the cafe when certain events take place.
Access: 1-minute walk from the 5th exit of Meiji-Jingumae station (Subway)/ 5-minute walk from JR Harajuku station Omotesandō exit
TEL: 03-5413-6142 ※It is possible to make reservations（Excluding Weekends and national holidays）
LOLA’S Cupcakes (Roppongi, Harajuku)
It is possible to say that LOLA’S Cupcakes are the instigators for the rainbow sweets trend. Their cupcakes may be famous, but their rainbow cakes are also a popular choice!
Seven different colour layers of cake are sandwiched together with buttercream.
◼︎Information
LOLA’S Cupcakes
Harajuku
Address: Cascade, 2nd floor, 1-10-37, Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
Opening hours: 11:00 — 20:00
Access: 2-minute walk from 3rd exit Meiji-Jingumae station (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin line/ Chiyoda line), 2-minute walk from Harajuku station Omotesando exit (JR Yamanote line)
TEL：03-6447-1127
Roppongi
Address: Roppongi Hills Metro Hut floor B1, 6-4-1, Roppongi, Minato, Tokyo
Opening hours: 11:00 — 21:00
Access: Direct access from the concourse of Roppongi station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya line), 4-minute walk from Roppongi station (Toei Ōedo Line)
TEL：03-3475-1127
A WORKS (Gakugei-daigaku Station)
What makes this cafe appear so Instagram-worthy is its resemblance to a traditional Japanse-style house. In this popular cafe, all the cakes are made by hand. Sales end once all the cakes are gone.
This place has more to offer than just a rainbow-coloured cheesecake — there are also unicorn cakes, Cheshire cat cakes and much more ♡
◼︎Information
Address: 3-3-7, Takaban, Mguro, Tokyo
Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday Friday & Sunday: 11:30 — 22:00
Thursdays: 11:30 — 16.00
Saturdays: 11:30 — 23:00（Last orders: 22:00)
Regular closing days: Wednesdays
Access: 2-minute walk from Gakugei-daigaku Station (Toyoko line)
TEL：050-5570-3475
NEW NEW YORK CLUB (Azabu-Jūban/ Jiyūgaoka station)
This shop was built for those who want to experience and taste New York culture in a New York atmosphere. Their signature treat is the rainbow-coloured bagel. However, they are only available on the weekends!
◼︎Information
NEW NEW YORK CLUB
Azabu-Jūban
Address: 3-8-5, Azabu-Jūban, Minato, Tokyo
Opening hours: 9:00 — 18:00 (Sales will end once all have been sold)
No regular closing days
Access: 3-minute walk from the A1 exit of Azabu-Jūban station (Tokyo Metro Namboku line)
TEL：03-6873-1537
Jiyūgaoka
Address: TF 2-15-14, Midorigaoka, Meguro, Tokyo
Opening hours: 11:30 — 20:00
Regular closing days: Tuesday
Access: 5-minute walk from Jiyūgaoka station
TEL：03-6459-5669
What are you waiting for? Get your hands on some rainbow sweets!
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A photogenic dreamland, “TOKYO ICE CREAM LAND” which offers photogenic ice creams suitable to be uploaded on your Instagram!
Tokyo Photogenic Team will hold a most-advanced, dreamy photogenic ice cream event which will offer ice creams suitable to be uploaded to your Instagram called “TOKYO ICE CREAM LAND” for a limited time offer from the 15th of December to the 17th.
Young females using Instagram (16 to 24 years old) often visit various photogenic spots to upload photos and videos to their SNS. Many young females are requesting for information RE: sightseeing spots and restaurants which are popular with Instagramers. One can create an “ideal timeline” by uploading quality contents to SNS. One of the most popular photogenic items is ice cream.
The event will set up many kinds of photo spots created under the theme of “ice cream,” not just offering ice cream to the customers.
It can be said that the event is a dreamy kingdom of “ice cream” with many photogenic spots which young females will love. A lecture tour of teaching how to take photos will also be held.
Let’s upload nice photos to SNS in the most advanced photogenic dreamland.
■Information
Event name: TOKYO ICE CREAM LANDDate: 12,15 to 17
(15th – 19:00 to 21:00, 16th to 17th – 9:00 to 21:00)
Venue: Omotesando SO-CAL LINK GALLERY.
Address: 〒150-0001 4-9-8, Jingumae, Shibuyaku, Tokyo
Access: 3 minutes by walk from Tokyo Metro “Omotesando” Station, 7 minutes by walk from “Meiji Jingumae” Station
Fees: Pre-ordered ticket 2,000 yen, normal ticket 3,000 yen (the quantity of the ticket is limited)
First-come-first-serve-basis, limited time offer – 45 per session (the time might differ according to the situation of the reservation)
Ticket can be bought from here↓
※Please enter the discount code (TIC7) if you want to purchase a pre-order ticket so that you can receive a discount. (pre-order ticket must be purchased before 10,31. The number of the tickets is 1,000)
Official Twitter: https://twitter.com/TILofficail
Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ice_land2017/?hl=ja
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“Light Festival in Fukuoka Castle Ruins”is now being held inside the grounds of Maizuru Park / Fukuoka Castle ruins in Fukuoka Prefecture. Fukuoka Castle is famous for its beautiful stone walls. The castle’s stone walls have now become an
light-art space. Light projections onto the wall move as people get close to and touch the stone wall.
teamLab is a creation group comprised of programming, CG, mathematics and other specialists. They are an ultra-technologist group of creators. Setting their aims on exploring a new relationship between man and nature, they cross over the boundaries of art, science, technology and creativity.
The venue for this festival, Fukuoka Castle was built in 7 years starting in 1601. It is the biggest castle in Kyushu and is a nationally designated historic site. The castle is comprised of the main enclosure, the second enclosure and the third enclosure. The stone walls are a prominent part of this castle and so it is sometimes called a “stone castle.”This castle’s stone walls are very beautiful and they are constructed in four layers making of a large-scaled castle.
teamLab is calling this a “Digitalized Nature, Digitalized City” project. Why not come and view and experience this festival!
AFnlFlowers, Symbiotic Lives in the Stone Wall – Fukuoka Castle RuinsFeatured Works
<Resisting and Resonating Ovoids and Trees>
The light-emitting ovoids scattered throughout the castle ruins and the trees.
The light-emitting ovoids and the light on the trees are independent of each other. Yet, as the lights become brighter and then become dimmer, it looks as though they are breathing. The propagating lighting creates a resonating sound which spreads out and disappears. In other words, if a wave of light resonates towards you it means that there is a person over there. By entering this art space you will become more fully aware that there is another person entering your same space.
<Animals of Flowers, Symbiotic Lives in the Stone Wall – Fukuoka Castle Ruins>
Ruins of Daitenshudai – a stone wall 60 meters in length and 8.5 meters in height. In various animal bodies, flowers are born, bloom then scatter and fade away. Furthermore, if people touch the animals the flowers scatter. When all the flowers have scattered, the animal fades away.
<Breathing, Resonating Stone Wall – Fukuoka Castle Ruins>All of the 630 meter stone walls of Fukuoka Castle are lit up. The lights on the stone walls flicker as if they are breathing. Furthermore, the lighting on the main stone wall looks as though it is responding to the artwork, “Resisting and Resonating Ovoids and Trees.” It shines brightly, spreads and then fades.
<Stone Steps of Oblivion – Fukuoka Castle>
The stone steps leading up to Shoten Shukaku of Fukuoka Castle are lit up. When people come close to the steps the lights get brighter and sound is emitted.
<Spatial Calligraphy in a Stone Wall – Fukuoka Castle Ruins>
Fukuoka Castle is sometime referred to as the“Stone Castle.”On the stone walls of Fukuoka Castle’s Daitenshudai Ruins, is an open space for “spatial calligraphy.”Here a never-ending calligraphy work appears on the stone walls.
“Special calligraphy” means to write on an open space. The depth and speed of the strokes create a special power. One can gain a new insight into the power of calligraphy by viewing this artwork.
Here is an experience-based art project that both adults and children can enjoy. Why not go and visit this “Light Festival in Fukuoka Castle Ruins.”■Information“Light Festival in Fukuoka Castle Ruins” 2017-2018
Address: Fukuoka Castle Ruins 1 Maizuru Park Jonai, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka Prefecture
Festival duration: 2017 December 1st (Fri.) ～ 2018 January 28th (Sun.) *no holiday during this periodOpen: 18:00 – 22:00 (last entry 21:30)
Admission: Adults 1000 yen Junior and senior high students 600 yen children 300 yen * 3-years and younger are free
Sponsored by “Light Festival in Fukuoka Castle Ruins Planning Committee”
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Fans of Japan and Japanese culture may know that Kobe’s food scene is not to be missed. A new restaurant, KANBE, is now open and tells the story of the city’s food culture. The grand opening was on November 30 in Sannomiya.
The story begins with water, the source of Kobe’s food. The city’s famed fare like Kobe beef, Suma salmon, and seasonal vegetables will take the stage through storytelling, projection mapping, and uniquely planed dishes. Ingredients are served to guests the same day that they are delivered to the restaurant, offering the freshest possible experience. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of drinks made in Kobe, including Nada Gogou sake and Kobe wine. These are made using Nunobiki water from the Rokko mountain range, meaning that everything guests enjoy was truly made in Kobe.
At KANBE, visitors will chat with a storyteller who weaves the story of Kobe’s food into the experience. A chef himself, he is well-versed in cooking methods, food history, and nutrition.
The 18-meter-long counter adds to the experience by displaying seasonal scenery, the water of Nunobiki, and the night view from Mt. Rokko. Nature sounds, like the murmuring of Nunobiki Falls and the chirping of birds, also echo through the restaurant in time with the projection mapping, creating an atmosphere that feels alive.
Why not come enjoy a new kind of dining experience?
Information
FARM TO TABLE ‘KANBE’
Opening Date: November 30, 2022
Reservations Required (May be made up to 3 days prior.)
Address: Taishin Sunset Building 7F (2-5-1 Kitanagasadori, Chuo-ku, Kobe)
Reservations/Official Site: https://www.ko-z.com/
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Kobe is filled with famous sightseeing spots like the nostalgic Ijinkan neighborhood and port. The city is packed with fashionable shops and restaurants and is highly regarded for its selection of tasty sweets!
The port city, with over 150 years of history, has fostered a unique and diverse culinary culture.
Recently, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu began starring in a series of promotional videos for the Gastropolis Kobe project. The artist traveled to the city to partake in plenty of delicious treats, and MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON went along for the ride! Here are some of the singer’s favorite spots around town.
Kobe, known as a city where East meets West, is lined with sweets shops that are unique to the area.
The tea salon TOOTH TOOTH Dekoboko Sabo opened in 2019 in the Kobe City Museum and offers a menu that mixes Western food and sweets with tea and ingredients from traditional Japanese cuisine. Kyary ordered the Dekoboko Sabo Afternoon Tea Set, a collection of western sweets blended with the essence of traditional Japanese flavors. Guests are invited to enjoy their tea and sweets in a one-of-a-kind space filled with Meiji period flare and retro Western furniture. Those interested will need to make a reservation, so be sure to remember the next time you’re in Kobe.
TOOTH TOOTH Decoboco Sabo
Address: 24 Kyomachi, Chuo Ward, Kobe (Inside the Kobe City Museum)
Hours: 9:30-17:30 (Last Order at 16:30)
Closed Mondays
Official Site: https://toothtooth.com/restaurant/decoboco-sabo
The next stop was Kobe Nankin-machi, one of the three major Chinatowns in Japan. Kobe MILK is known nationwide for its Apricot Pudding, which is made with local ingredients. The raw apricot pudding is mixed with milk brought from the foot of Mt. Rokko and other ingredients from Hyogo Prefecture. Of course, Kyary ordered some, and was amazed by its fluffy texture. You can only enjoy it in Kobe–also, the shop sells other puddings mixed with seasonal fruits, so don’t miss those either!
Kobe MILK
Address: Shin-Motomachi Building 1F (1 Motomachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Kobe)
Hours: Weekdays 9:30-19:00 / Weekends 9:30-19:30
Official Site: https://kobe-milk.com
For Kyary’s final stop, the singer visited the Moore House, a cafe located in a building with over 100 years of history. Guests are surrounded by greenery, and the Western-style building is incredibly elegant. The Strawberry Mille-feuille Kyary ordered was created by an expert patissier and based on the strawberry mille-feuille recipe from the legendary French restaurant Maxim’s de Paris in Ginza. A generous amount of custard cream complements the crispy pie crust and enhances the sweetness of the fresh strawberries. We’d recommend it with a glass of champagne–if you’re of age.
Kitano Ijin-kan Moore House
Address: 2-9-3 Kitanocho, Chuo-ku, Kobe
Hours: 11:00-17:00
Closed Tuesdays
Official Site: https://www.kitanomoore.com/cafe/
The streets of Kobe are packed with sweets that you can only enjoy if you visit. Why not come experience these incredible spots like Kyary did?
Kobe Sweets Trailer: https://youtu.be/Sx9B1ZdAvlI
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Kobe is filled with famous sightseeing spots like the nostalgic Ijinkan neighborhood and port. The city is packed with fashionable shops and restaurants and is highly regarded for its Kobe beef restaurants and tasty local spirits.
Facing the Seto Inland Sea, Kobe is surrounded by rich nature and produces plenty of tasty veggies while also bringing in tons of fresh fish. The port city, with over 150 years of history, has fostered a unique and diverse culinary culture.
Recently, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu began starring in a series of promotional videos for the Gastropolis Kobe project. The artist traveled to the city to partake in plenty of delicious fare, and MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON tagged along. Let’s take a look at her top picks!
Kobe beef is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the name of this Japanese city, right?
Teppanyaki restaurant Tajima, located in the Kobe Portopia Hotel, serves Kobe beef along with other Japanese black beef, seafood, and seasonal vegetables.
Kyary ordered the Kobe beef loin and seasonal grilled vegetables, watching with excitement as the chef prepared the meal in front of her. The steak is made from carefully selected Kobe beef and melts in your mouth. Tajima has private rooms as well as counter seating, making it a perfect location for everything from a family get-together to a first date.
Teppanyaki Tajima
Address: Kobe Portopia Hotel 2F (6-10-1 Minatojima Nakamachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe)
Hours:
11:30-14:30
17:30-21:30 *Open at 17:00 on weekends and holidays
Open Daily
Official site：https://www.portopia.co.jp/restaurant/detail/tajima/
What goes better with Kobe beef than local sake? One area of the city, Nada Gogou, has an incredibly high concentration of sake breweries.
Nada Gogo Sake Brewery opened in April 2022 in a renovated building that was formerly the location of Kenbishi, a long-established local sake brewer with over 500 years of history.
Visitors can enjoy sake and cuisine from 26 breweries in the area under the themes of ‘Seasonal, Local, Compatible, Fermentation.’ Here, Kyary ordered the Nada Gogou Set which includes the best possible food and drink pairings. Limited to 100 servings each day, the set includes five different sake and three seasonal small plates perfecting for pairing. The drinks and food offerings change with the seasons, allowing guests to enjoy tons of unique flavors from the region no matter what time they visit.
Nada Gogou Brewery
Address: 3-11-2 Mikagehonmachi, Hagashinada-ku, Kobe
Hours: 12:00-21:00 *Opens until 20:00 on Sunday and holidays
Closed Monday-Thursday
Official Site: https://nadagogo.com/
GOCOCU is an all-day buffet restaurant in the Kobe Portopia Hotel where guests can enjoy dishes using carefully selected ingredients from the five Hyogo provinces (Settsu, Harima, Tajima, Tanba, and Awaji) with a spectacular view of Kobe. Visitors can enjoy the chef’s specialties including roasted and grilled dishes cooked in a custom-made stone oven. The restaurant is also known for its selection of alcoholic beverages, and Kyary enjoyed the Fukuju Junmai Ginjo. This particular sake has won many awards in Japan and abroad, including a gold medal at the National Sake Competition for three consecutive years. Popular for its smooth rice flavor, this well-loved brand uses rice and rice malt grown in Hyogo Prefecture. Adults can enjoy this and many more delicious beverages during buffet hours and cocktail hours after 8:30 or 9:00 on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
GOCOCU ~Blessings of the Five Kingdoms~
Address: Kobe Portopia Hotel 30F (6-10-1 Minatojima Nakamachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe)
Hours: 7:00-10:30, 11:30-15:00, 17:30-21:00, 20:30-23:00
Open Daily
Official Site: https://www.portopia.co.jp/restaurant/detail/gococu/
Founded in 1659, Kiku Masamune is a leader in the sake industry. We visited the Kiku Masamune Sake Factory, opened to commemorate the 50th anniversary of its handy barreled sake, perfect for allowing customers to enjoy barrel-aged sake at home easily. Visitors can enjoy browsing sake barrels, with many created using traditional barrel making techniques that are still used today. They can also enjoy an exhibition of Yoshino cedar, the material used to make the barrels. Tours are by appointment only. Reservations are taken on a first-come, first-served basis, so early reservations are recommended!
Kiku Masamune Sake Factory
Address: Uozaki Nishimachi, Higashinada-ku, Kobe
Tour Times: 10:30~, 14:00~, 15:00~ (Each tour is approximately 30 minutes.)
Closed during New Year’s holidays.
Official Site: https://www.kikumasamune.co.jp/tarusake-mf/
*No outside food or beverages are allowed inside the factory. Tastings are available at the Memorial Hall after the tour.
After reading this, you’re interested in coming to Kobe, right? Enjoy some of this savory fare the next time you’re in the area.
Kobe Beef Version:https://youtu.be/-HrNq6JGO3A
Nada Sake Version: https://youtu.be/cd9_f59NWIw
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Yoshitaka Amano, known by international fans as the artist behind the legendary Final Fantasy video game series, is celebrating his 70th birthday with a unique art project from November 23 until December 8 at Myoshin-ji in Kyoto.
On the first day of the event, the venue, decorated with autumn leaves, was crowded with visitors including foreign tourists, who marveled at the fantastic space filled harmoniously with gold and blue. The exhibition will be held at Myoshin-ji, the head temple of the associated branch of Rinzai Zen Buddhism. This collection of works was designed to question visitors’ sensibilities and provide a new kind of art exhibition for fans to enjoy.
After the exhibition, the main art piece by Yoshitaka himself will be converted to 3DCG, and a Virtual Golden World will be developed in collaboration with the Yoshitaka Amano VR Museum. By integrating traditional and modern art methods, guests will be able to engage more deeply in the art by enjoying digital works, the metaverse, and NFTs.
Don’t miss this curious exhibition!
Information
Golden World: Infinite Light by Yoshitaka Amano
～GOLDEN VIEW OF THE WORLD～
Running: November 23 – December 8, 2022
Venue: Myoshin-ji
Hours: 9:00-12:00 / 13:00-16:00
Tickets on sale until 15:30 each day.
Official Site: https://www.myoshinji.or.jp/
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The NFT marketplace HINATA will start selling collaborative pieces on November 25, combining classical drafts of Kyoto printed silk images with modern art pieces by up-and-coming creators.
Kyoto Printed Silk Draft x Modern Ukiyo-e Artist Ono Tako
Draft (Left) and Spring Dreamland – Sunshine by Ono Tako
Ono Tako is a modern-day ukiyo-e artist who creates unique paintings combining Eastern and Western elements.
A beautiful woman stands in front of lush spring scenery in this gorgeous piece.
Although this is clearly an ukiyo-e piece, it has a more modern flare, expressing a more universal standard of beauty while also infusing traditional elements.
A total of six works will be available in two variations: the soft and warm Sun and the calm and tranquil Shade.
Ono Tako: https://twitter.com/ono800Kyoto Printed Silk Draft x Illustrator Omulettomato
Draft (Left) and Full Moon by Omulettomato
Omulettomato is an illustrator who is rapidly gaining popularity for their feminine portraits.
Three different drafts depicting beautiful Japanese nature have been combined and transformed into a modern lady with moe elements.
A total of eight works will be available in three variations: Daybreak, Sunrise, and Full Moon.
Omulettomato: http://omutoma.tumblr.comEnjoy this curious collaboration and own a piece of classical and modern Japanese culture.
Information
NFT Marketplace HINATA
Release Date: November 25, 2022
Official Site: https://hinata-nft.com/company
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From December 10 until December 18, 2022, creative company NAKED will hold NAKED GARDEN ONE KYOTO at Ninna-ji! The event is part of a larger next-generation art project being held around Kyoto until Christmas Day.
This exhibition marks the first metaverse-centered event at Ninna-ji, and guests will be able to enjoy a virtual fashion show in collaboration with Jotaro Saito, a kimono designer from Kyoto. Participants will begin by creating their own avatar by snapping a photo of their face. After that, they will be able to choose a kimono by Saito to use as clothing for their avatar before taking to the runway with other visitors from all around Japan.
NAKED’s goal is to bring traditional Japanese kimono culture into the digital space, and the company believes that this is only the beginning. In the future, NAKED hopes to bring other artists into the metaverse as well.
NAKED Distanced Lanterns
NAKED Tsukubai
Five-Storied Pagoda Projection Mapping
DANDELION PROJECT
Virtual Fashion Show
Limited Edition Paper Goshuin
This year’s event also includes the DANDELION PROJECT, popular with art fans around the world. Created by Ryotaro Muramatsu, the art project has appeared in a number of towns and cities around the world, inviting participants to create flowers and send them around the globe digitally as a hope for peace. Visitors can use their smartphones to send dandelion fluff digitally to other participants around the world, sharing a wish for world peace.
This year, the participatory art piece was installed in the main temple. Why not visit this stunning exhibition in Kyoto this winter?
Information
NAKED GARDEN ONE KYOTO Ninna-ji
Venue: Ninna-ji (Five-storied Pagoda, Main Temple)
Running: December 10 – December 18, 2022
*No admission on December 17 due to a private event.
Hours: 17:30-21:30 *Last entry at 21:00
Official Site: https://garden.naked.works/kyoto/ -
monopo Collaborates with Kyoto-Based Brand Shokuraku Asano to Share Traditional Japanese Textiles with the World
Global creative agency monopo is teaming up with Shokuraku Asano, a 100-year-old obi maker from Kyoto! The company is working to create a digital experience for interested viewers, sharing each artisan’s personal story. Those who love Japanese culture are welcome to enjoy traditional Japanese crafts in an entirely new way!
Using a one-of-a-kind QR obi, a new storytelling method is showing off the hard work and love that goes into the company’s textiles. A special website and video allow interested viewers to experience the process of making an obi digitally, simply by using their smartphone. Even those unable to visit Japan to see these obi in person can dive into the history of the area’s textiles and become more acquainted with one part of Kyoto’s manufacturing culture.
Kyoto was the ancient capital of Japan. The city is known for its history and preservation of Japanese culture, and prior to the pandemic, the city was constantly filled with visitors from around the world anxious to learn more about the country’s traditional culture. When the pandemic hit the world in 2020, it changed the city forever–tourists disappeared and the city became much quieter. Now that Japan has opened its borders, however, tourists are returning in droves.
While Shokuraku Asano upholds tradition, it also seeks to leave a mark on new generations by embracing new technology. This unique project is worth noting, so get your smartphone out and start learning!
We applaud monopo’s attempt to share this incredible traditional Japanese craftsmanship with people around the world.
Information
monopo × Shokuraku Asano
Official Site: https://obiproject.monopo.net/
Video Link: https://vimeo.com/724915502 -
From November 11 until December 8, a series of Kyoto-inspired Jujutsu Kaisen goods will be on sale outside the West Gate at JR Kyoto Station! Along with the merchandise, fans will also be able to snag local foods at the exhibition.
Collaborative Packaging: Local Products from Kyoto
*The products shown are under development and may change slightly.
Purchase Bonus: Limited Edition Kyoto Postcard
*The postcard’s design will change during the first and second halves of the exhibition.
*Postcards from the Sendai venue will not be available.
*Postcards will only be available while supplies last.
Be sure to grab some of these Jujutsu Kaisen products packed with Kyoto charm!
©芥見下々／集英社・呪術廻戦製作委員会
Information
Jujutsu Kaisen Product Exhibition: Kyoto
Running: November 17 – December 8, 2022
Venue: Special event space in front of West Ticket Gate at JR Kyoto Station
Official Site: https://bussan-ryoikitenkai.com/
Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/bussanryoiki
*More information will be shared on the official website, so check back often. -
From December 10 until December 25, the Light and Food Ensemble event will be held in the garden of the Kyoto National Museum.
A new projection mapping show featuring enormous flowers will be shown on the wall of the Meiji Kotokan Hall, unchanged since its opening in 1897. The history of Kyoto will take center stage, however–NAKED is only there to make it all the more impressive.
NAKED will also collaborate with Kojima Shouten for the first time, decorating the venue with the local company’s famous lanterns.
At the venue, local shops from Kyoto will be selling sweets to guests. Come enjoy Kyoto in a whole new way during this exclusive winter event!
Information
Light and Food Ensemble
Running: December 10 – December 25, 2022
Hours: 18:00-21:30 (Last entry at 21:00)
Light and Food Ensemble ~Evening Flower Banquet Directed by NAKED~
Venue: Kyoto National Museum
Tickets / Official Site: https://ensemblekyoto.com/
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Yoshitaka Amano, known by international fans as the artist behind the legendary Final Fantasy video game series, is celebrating his 70th birthday with a unique art project in Kyoto.
The exhibition will be held at Myoshin-ji, the head temple of the associated branch of Rinzai Zen Buddhism. Stepping into the temple, guests will be met with colorful autumn leaves and a sea of gold and blue art pieces.
“I want people to enter this world of light and experience being part of it,” Amano said. “Rather than art being something flat on a wall, I want to present something new and unique.” This collection of works was designed to question visitors’ sensibilities and provide a new kind of art exhibition for fans to enjoy.The main art piece, newly painted by Amano himself, will be on display in the Dharma Hall, which was decorated by one of Kano Tan’yu’s masterpieces. Tan’yu was an Edo-period painter.
The three meter tall column features Amano’s own interpretation of Hiten, part of Mount Meru, a part of Buddhism cosmology considered to be the centre of all the physical, metaphysical and spiritual universes. Four smaller pieces will be displayed on all four sides to create a three-dimensional mandala.
Information
Golden World: Infinite Light by Yoshitaka Amano
～GOLDEN VIEW OF THE WORLD～
Running: November 23 – December 8, 2022
Venue: Myoshin-ji (1 Hanazonomyoshinjicho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto)
Hours: 9:00-12:00 / 13:00-16:00 *Tickets sold until 15:30
Admission: Adults ¥700 / Children ¥400
Details: https://goldenworld.jp/
Official Site: https://www.myoshinji.or.jp/
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Kyary Pamyu Pamyu is now starring in a series of promotional videos for Gastropolis Kobe, a project aiming to share the city’s incredible food culture with both domestic and international travelers. The project began on November 3, 2022.
[Kobe Beef Version] https://youtu.be/-HrNq6JGO3A
In the new videos, Kyary experiences the wonders of Kobe beef as well as local sake and desserts while exploring the city’s best sightseeing spots. T
The main video will be aired on a massive screen near Shibuya Station in Tokyo starting in mid-November, and will also be available to watch online.
[Nada Sake Version] https://youtu.be/cd9_f59NWIw
[Kobe Sweets Version] https://youtu.be/Sx9B1ZdAvlI
To celebrate the campaign, four popular restaurants in Tokyo will participate in the Gastropolis Kobe Fair, inviting guests to enjoy cuisine from the capital of Hyogo Prefecture.
Interview with Kyary Pamyu Pamyu
Q: After filming, what was your impression of Kobe?
A: “I took pictures in all kinds of places, but honestly, they were all so close to each other. It was easy to get around and see everything–it only took between 15 and 20 minutes to get somewhere, and shooting went smoothly, so I was really able to enjoy every second!”
Q: What’s your overall impression of Kobe’s cuisine?
A: “There was so much amazing food. Everything was delicious and I ate and drink so much…because of how much drinking was involved in this shoot, I felt like food and alcohol were really connected in Kobe. Even between takes, the staff would ask if I wanted to try something or have another drink. I was so moved by the warmth and kindness of the people I met. This trip was filled with love and hospitality.”
Q: You traveled around Kobe, right? What was your favorite place?
A: “I love fashion and history, and Kobe had so many incredible historical buildings. I wanted to have tea at a place like that, and the view at night was unbelievable. I thought it was a great date spot or even a place you could spend time with your family and friends. I loved watching the big boats in the harbor.”
Q: There are only two months left in 2022. Is there anything you still want to do?
A: “I’ve been on my Japan tour since January, so I’d finally like to relax a little bit. Maybe eat some good food and go to a hot spring.
Q: Do you have a message for the readers?
A: “The two days of shooting in Kobe were incredible. The weather was perfect, the food was delicious, and the drinks were divine. I’d love to return on my own trip! I hope everyone enjoys the videos!”
Information
Gastropolis Kobe Web Series
Streaming: November 3, 2022 at 0:00
Gastropolis Kobe Fair
Running: November 3 – November 9, 2022
*Shiseido Parlor Harajuku will be closed from November 7 until November 10
Participating Venues:
・TAVERN by the green
Address: THE STRINGS Omotesando 2F (3-6-8 Kitaaoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
・Shiseido Parlor Harajuku
Address: WITH HARAJUKU 8F (1-14-30 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)
・Ginza Onodera
Address: Il Palazzino Omotesando (5-1-6 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)
・Tokyo Jugatsu
Address: Ohararyu Kaikan B1F (5-7-17 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
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From November 11 until December 4, NAKED will hold the unique NAKED GARDEN ONE KYOTO event in Uji. The one-of-a-kind art project is being produced through a partnership with Kyoto City, Uji City, and Otsu City in Shiga Prefecture. Several events and art exhibitions will appear in the Kyoto area until December 25, 2022.
The project first began on September 15 at Kyoto City Hall, and it will move to Uji on November 11. NAKED’s unique digital art will bring color to Uji, a place steeped in Japanese history and the heart of Japanese tea culture. The Asagiri Bridge, appearing in The Tale of Genji, will be illuminated, and the Zen temple Kosho-ji will be offering tea ceremonies and a digital teamaking experience for guests to enjoy. NAKED’s popular Distance Lanterns will return, allowing visitors to explore Uji at night while properly socially distancing.
At Kosho-ji, guests can enjoy the renewed DANDELION PROJECT. Created by Ryotaro Muramatsu, the art project has appeared in a number of towns and cities around the world, inviting participants to create flowers and send them around the globe digitally as a hope for peace. Visitors can use their smartphones to send dandelion fluff with their name on it to the metaverse version of Kosho-ji and beyond, eventually causing a digital flower to bloom.
Why not come take a quiet walk through the streets of Uji, Kyoto?
Works
Urasenke Tea Ceremony and Digital Teamaking Experience
『DANDELION PROJECT』by RYOTARO MURAMATSU / NAKED
NAKED Distance Lantern®︎
Asagiri Bridge and Kotosaka Interactive Illuminations
NAKED Tsukubai®︎
Chazuna’s New Mobility C⁺walkT Experience
Information
NAKED GARDEN ONE KYOTO Uji
Venue: Uji, Kyoto (Near Kosho-ji)
Running: November 11 – December 4, 2022
Kosho-ji Exclusion Dates: 11/19-28, 12/3-4
Hours: 17:30-21:00*Kosho-ji is open from 17:30-20:00 (Last entry at 19:30)
Tickets: https://www.kkday.com/ja/product/134386
Official Site: https://garden.naked.works/venue_kyoto/1450/
