Four Beer Gardens in Kyoto and Osaka To Keep You Cool In 2019

22.June.2019 | FOOD / SPOT

Hi everyone! This is Midori from MMN’s Editorial Department.

Now that summer is here, it’s the perfect opportunity to visit a beer garden! Having a refreshing cold beer on a rooftop during a hot summer’s day is on a whole new level. Every year, beer gardens put a lot of effort into coming up with new ideas for their customers to have the time of their lives. The entire atmosphere is an entirely new experience. That’s why today, I will be introducing you to 2019’s must-visit beer gardens in Kyoto and Osaka.

 

Or click here to discover Tokyo’s top 5 beer gardens instead!  

 

Korean BBQ Sakeba

Head to the rooftop of Keihan City Mall which is attached to Temmabashi station  in Osaka for a Korea-themed beer garden. From grilled meats such as Korean grilled pork belly, (Samgyeopsal), and gourmet food such as cheese Dak-galbi (spicy stir-fried chicken), there are just so many delicious meals to try. You can treat yourself to the free self-service drinks or get your beers, highballs and lemon sours topped up as many times as you like! Korean grilled meat and beer is the perfect combination. No wonder it is so popular!

 

▼ Temmabashi Korean BBQ Sakeba

Address: Keihan City Mall rooftop, 1-1 Tenmabashikyomachi, Chuo Ward, Osaka,

Running: May 22 ー September 30, 2019 (No regular holidays.)

※ Closed on days of severe or stormy weather

Opening Hours: 17:00 ー 22:30 (Last entries: 20:00)

Official Website: https://www.matsuri-bbq.com

 

Hotel Keihan Rooftop Beer Garden

Before the rooftop garden opens at Keihan Hotel, Osaka, you can still enjoy alcohol at the “Choi Nomi” alcohol stand. Here, you pay for each individual drink, which is perfect for those who do not want to drink too much. You can also enjoy a couple of drinks here with friends while you are waiting for the beer garden to open. Whether you want to drink a little or go all the way, this beer garden caters for all kinds of alcohol-lovers. ♪

 

▼ Rooftop Beer Garden

Location: Hotel Keihan Kyoto Grande

Address: 31 Higashikujo Nishisannocho, Minami Ward,

Running: June 1 ー August 31, 2019

※ Closed during bad weather

Opening Hours: 17:30 ー 21:00 (Last orders: 20:45) (Choi Nomi alcohol stand opening times: 16:00 ー 17:30

Website: https://www.hotelkeihan.co.jp/Kyoto/

 

 

Senri Hankyu Hotel

Senri Hankyu Hotel Poolside Beer Garden also has private spaces this year, allowing you to relax in private with your friends without having to worry about others around you. Amongst all the typical drinks, you can also enjoy Smirnoff and Sangria. There will also be a variety of dance performances to keep you entertained including samba, hula and belly dancing. Grab your girlfriends and boyfriends for the perfect summer reunion party.

 

Senri Hankyu Hotel Beer Garden

Location: Senri Hankyu Hotel Poolside

Address:  2-1 Shinsenri Higashimachi, Toyonaka, Osaka

Running: June 1 ー September 30, 2019

Opening Hours: Mondays ー Saturdays (17:30 ー 21:00)

Last orders: 20:30),

Sundays, national holidays: 17:30 ー 20:30 (Last orders: 20:00)

Website: https://www.hankyu-hotel.com/home/hotel/hh/senrihh/contents/beergarden/

 

Hotel New Hankyu Kyoto

Right now, the rooftop of Hotel New Hankyu, is home to a beer garden. From the same rooftop, you can enjoy a view of Kyoto Tower amongst the breathtaking scenery of nightfall in Kyoto. There is also a live performance menu at the grilled dish corner, performance desserts and much more. Treat yourself to a luxurious beer garden experience.

 

▼Hankyu Top Beer Garden Kyoto

Location: Hotel New Hankyu Kyoto (Rooftop )

Address: Opposite Kyoto station (Karasuma central exit), Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto

Running: May 17, 2019 ー September 23, 2019

On national holiday August 16, opening hours will change due to the Gozan no Okuribi festival of Kyoto.

Opening Hours: 17:30 ー 21:30

※ Open until 22:00 on Fridays and Saturdays during July and August, however a time limit of 120 minutes for each group of customers applies.

Website: https://www.hankyu-hotel.com/hotel/hh/kyotoshh/restaurants/beergarden

 

So, what do you think? A beer garden with friends is the perfect way to have fun with friends in the evening!

RECOMMENDED ENTRIES

  • Experience Japanese Culture #2: Comparing Tastes of Unique Japanese Chocolates – From Matcha to Sake

    02.February.2018 | FEATURES / FOOD

    Japanese model Yuri Sugunama, a.k.a “Yurippa,” is taking us on her next trip in this series where she goes to personally experience Japanese culture and cultivate new hobbies. Yurippa loves chocolate – she eats one tablet of the stuff day. In this Valentine’s-special second entry, Yurippa sampled different chocolates that are popular right now.

     

    For Valentine’s Day in Japan, it’s custom for girls give guys chocolate and convey their feelings towards them. Guys return the favour on a day called White Day, which falls on March 14. So, since there’s one month to go before the big day, that means the most delicious chocolate in the world is about to hit shelves in Japan – popular both in Japan and overseas.

     

    0Q0A3102

    The first pick was the classic “KitKat,” a very well-known brand in over 100 countries. The Japanese brand of KitKat is actually made in Japan. It’s received much attention around the world for its original flavours. It’s also known for being associated with exam season for students – the word KitKat in Japanese (kitto katto) almost sounds like the phrase “Kitto Katsu!” which means “You will surely win!”

     

    0Q0A3105 copy

    Yurippa tried out the new “KitKat Chocolatory” series, created by the chef and owner of “La Patissier Takagi,” Yasumasa Takagi. The “Sublime Valentine’s Assortment” costs ¥2,400 (tax excl.) and includes 7 KitKat bars with 6 different flavours. There’s dark chocolate, milk chocolate, white chocolate, matcha, raw, and a pink coloured ruby flavour. It’s a great selection to share and eat together with people.

     

    0Q0A3138

    The centerpiece of the collection is new Ruby KitKat, developed by the Swiss chocolate makers Barry Callebaut over a period of more than 10 years. The chocolate uses no colouring agents – the pink colour is made naturally to create an entirely new chocolate. Yurippa gave it her stamp of approval, saying it’ll be popular with girls for its vivid pink colour. She couldn’t contain her surprise for this newfound chocolate, saying “The berry flavour has a sour taste, but it’s different from strawberry chocolate. It’s something I’ve never tasted before.”

     

    0Q0A2921

    Next on the list is “Tea Chocolate Premium Matcha 7”. Costing just ¥1,000 (tax excl.), these chocolates are made by Shizuoka Matcha Sweet Factory “Nanaya,” who are known for producing the world’s most rich flavoured matcha gelato. These matcha chocolates don’t hold back on the milk so as to bring out the fragrance and taste of the tea leaves to the max. The set comes with 7 different matcha chocolates of varying intensity and 1 houjicha flavoured chocolate.

     

     

    0Q0A2954

    Yurippa expressed her excitement for the delicious chocolate before opening it. “When you open the packaging, the fresh smell of the tea whets your appetite so much you can’t wait to tuck in!”

     

    The chocolate and tea leaves have a good combined balance of 3.1%, and the smell and taste of the leaves kicks in with a strong flavour combination of 21%. “The tea leaf combination is different but my impression of the chocolate changed dramatically!”

     

    0Q0A3040

    “If you eat the chocolates in order as written on the packaging, you can understand each flavour’s intensity much better! This chocolate would go better with hot milk or soy milk than coffee. The richer chocolate flavours are fairly moderate when it comes to sweetness, so if you’re on a diet then you can eat them without feeling guilty.”

     

    0Q0A2930

    The last pick is from the long-standing chocolate maker Mary Chocolate. The KANADE Japanese Sake Truffles (¥1,000) come in 3 flavours – milk, sweet and white – and are topped with carefully selected Japanese sake. Only the finest sake from Japan is used, such as Gokyo Junmai Sake from Yamaguchi Prefecture. Since the truffles contain alcohol, be wary not to hand them out to minors or people that are driving.

     

     

    0Q0A3052

    “There’s a good balance between the chocolate and sake, and depending on which brand of sake is used, you can enjoy a different flavour on your taste buds from each!”

     

    a copy

    Yurippa’s favourite was the milk truffle topped with Koyama Shuzo. She was very satisfied having recently acquired a taste for sake. “It brings out the enduring qualities of refreshing Japanese sake and a fruitiness. I really want people who like Japanese sake to try these! If you’re not too good with sake from Japan, then I recommend the white chocolate truffle with Ichiro from Dewazakura. The subtle fragrance of sake that you can feel inside the smooth texture of the white chocolate makes it really sophisticated.”

     

    Yurippa gives friend chocolate to everyone on Valentine’s Day, guys and girls. Why don’t you try tasting this unique Japanese collection of chocolates recommended by Yurippa with everyone?

     

     

     

    ■Information

    KitKat Chocolatory – Sublime Valentine’s Assortment

    Price: ¥2,400 (tax excl.) – Set of 7 (6 flavours)

    Website: https://nestle.jp/brand/kit/chocolatory/

    Enquiries: Nestle – 0120-00-5916

     

    TEA CHOCOLATE PREMIUM MATCHA 7

    Price: ¥1,000 (tax excl.)

    Website: http://nanaya-matcha.com/?pid=113337997

     

    Mary Chocolate KANADE Japanese Sake Truffles

    Price: ¥1,000 (tax excl.)

    Website: http://maryshop.jp/shop/g/g4068/

     

    Model:Yuri Suganuma @yurippa93

    0Q0A3092

    Yuri Sugunuma is a model with a high fashion sense that has been picked up by various magazines. She receives much love and support from girls of the same generation as her to whom she is known by her nickname “Yurippa.” She has a huge influence across her social media. Recently, she has stepped into other fields outside of modelling, such as appearing in TV shoots and in music videos. She is skilled in make-up and involved in the development of cosmetics.

     

    Writer:Ryoichi Komaba

    Photographer:Haruka Yamamoto

    Translator: Joshua Kitosi-Isanga

     

     

  • Beer garden open on top of Japan’s tallest building, ABENO HARUKAS – Osaka

    08.April.2018 | FOOD

    The beer garden named, “ABENO HARUKAS Beer Garden – Beer300” will open in the observatory of Japan’s tallest building, ABENO HARUKAS, starting on April 28th (Sat.).

    This will be the fourth year for this beer garden called HARUKAS 300 to open. This beer garden is gathering much attention because of the great view from 300m up and because of its highly satisfying menu line up. Last year’s new menu item called, “Barbeque Menu” was very popular in that the customers could barbeque what they liked by themselves. This do-it-yourself feeling matched this wide open view of Osaka’s skyline.

     

    あべのハルカス ビアガーデン2

    For this year’s “Barbeque Menu” the highlight meats are thick cuts of “skirt steak,” “pork shoulder” and “spicy chicken” which goes well with beer. The great variety of meats will make for a hearty BBQ meal.

     

    あべのハルカス ビアガーデン

    The drink menu includes such drinks as sparkling wine, tropical cocktails and drinks which many women will want to upload on their SNS accounts. Furthermore, so as to not keep anyone waiting, self-service beer servers and wine servers have been installed. Everyone is for sure to have a wonderful time at this beer garden.
     
    For customers wanting to order the “Barbeque Menu” advanced reservations are necessary. In the case of rain, there are seats installed alongside the windows at Beer 300 so there is no need to worry about getting wet. Here is a beer garden you can enjoy without having to worry about the weather. In addition to the “Barbeque Menu” there are many single item menu items and you can also choose the “all-you-can drink” plan with no advanced reservation.
     
    Why not visit this beer garden 300m up in the sky and enjoy the sense of expansiveness as you eat and drink with your friends or family.

     

    ■Information

    HARIKAS 300
    Address: 1-1-43 Abenosuji, Abeno-ku, Osaka
    Hours: 9:00-22:00
    TEL:06-6621-0300

    URL:https://www.abenoharukas-300.jp

     

  • Standing Style Japanese Sake Bar Junmaishu YATA to Open in Chubu Centrair International Airport

    19.April.2018 | FOOD / SPOT

    Tachinomi is a type of Japanese bar that focuses on standing and drinking rather than sitting down. The new branch of Junmaishu YATA is one of these, and will open in Chubu Centrair International Airport on April 25, 2018 as the first branch from the company to open inside an airport.

     

    立ち飲みスタイルの日本酒バー「純米酒専門YATA」中部国際空港にオープン3

    The idea behind the new store is that rather than branching out overseas, they wanted to set up shop at Chubu Centrair International Airport where both Japanese and those from overseas gather to offer seriously delicious sake for everybody to enjoy.

     

    立ち飲みスタイルの日本酒バー「純米酒専門YATA」中部国際空港にオープン2

    YATA is a standing-style bar where customers can casually and easily enjoy Japanese sake. All the drinks on their menu are junmaishu, which is sake made from just rice and rice malt with no added. There’s no menu display. Instead, you can converse with the staff while choosing a drink of your course.

     

    立ち飲みスタイルの日本酒バー「純米酒専門YATA」中部国際空港にオープン4

    The bar is thoroughly particular about the ingredients, brands, chasers and so on of the drinks served there. There’s even an all-you-can-drink option.  It’s great for how simple it is, as well as the reasonable prices.

     

    立ち飲みスタイルの日本酒バー「純米酒専門YATA」中部国際空港にオープン

    Despite the current climate of strict regulations, YATA has overcome various hurdles and will successfully open in Chubu Centrair International Airport. Head on in if you’re passing through and experience their passion for yourself.

     

    ■Information

    Junmaishu YATA Centrair

    Address: Chubu Centrair International Airport Passenger Terminal Building 4F, 1-1 Centrair, Tokoname-shi, Aichi Prefecture

    Day of Opening: April 25, 2018

    Opening Hours: 8:00-21:00 (Weekdays, Weekends & Holidays)

    No Fixed Holidays.

    Access: 28-minutes from Meitetsu Nagoya Station (If using μ-SKY)

    TEL: 0569-89-2225

    Website: https://junmaishu.net

     

  • Ryuhei Maruyama and You Yokoyama From Kanjani Eight Sing Passionately About Sweet Sake

    18.June.2019 | FOOD

    Morinaga Sweet Sake will release their new TV commercial for their chilled sweet sake “Hiyashi Amazake” on July 5th.

    Hiyashi Amazake is made using a blend of carefully selected sake lees produced when making sake, malted rice, and Hakata salt. This drink will provide you with a refreshing aftertaste to keep you cool during the hot summer. To share the news of this wonderful drink with the rest of Japan, Ryuhei Maruyama and You Yokoyama from Japanese boyband Kanjani Eight will feature in the brand’s new advert as promotional characters. Watch the two idols as they muster up all their passion to sing a song about their undying love for Hiyashi Amazake whilst dressed in Hiyashi Amazake-themed Yutaka, leaning against the trees.  

     

    You just have to hear the intense rap, too. The boys manage to sing it all the way through to the end without breaking their serious face into fits of laughter.

     

    Please check out the incredibly entertaining Hiyashi Amazake advert!

  • Go Japanese Sake Tasting with VELTRA’s ‘Sake Tours Around Japan’

    10.June.2018 | FOOD / SPOT

    VELTRA offers an endless list of tours and activities for travellers across the globe for them to discover and experience everything the countries of the world have to give.

     

    The travel website posted a special page on June 4, 2018 titled “Sake Tours around Japan.”

    日本酒ツアー VELTRA

    Wanting people to discover the true authentic side of Japan, the page focuses on the art of Japanese sake, its qualities, and how best to enjoy it, as well as sake tours people can enjoy while in the country. The tours can only be booked on the VELTRA website.

     

    Let’s take a peek at some of the tours.

    日本酒ツアー VELTRA 川越 kawagoe

    Historic Kawagoe and Retro Saitama Sake Tasting Tour from Tokyo

    After seeing the historical architecture of Kawagoe, you will visit a Isegen, a sake shop with a history spanning over a hundred years. Afterwards, you’ll head to Gyoda for a soba lunch before exploring the quiet town which is famous for the movie The Floating Castle. Finally, you will go sake taste testing in Kumagaya at Gonda brewery.

    日本酒ツアー VELTRA 川越 kawagoe 盆栽 bonsai

    Kawagoe Sake Tasting and Bonsai Museum Tour from Tokyo

    Go back in time and stroll through a historical neighbourhood which was formally known as ‘Koedo’ (Little Edo) before heading to Isegan Sake Shop which has a history stretching over 100 years. You will then get the bus to Uruido for lunch at Seiryu Sake Brewery. Your last destination will be the Omiya Bonsai Art Museum where you will be sucked into the little world of bonsai.

    日本酒ツアー VELTRA セルリアンタワー

    Bellovisto Bar Drinks and Appetizers on the 40th Floor of Cerulean Tower Hotel

    From the 40th floor of Cerulean Tower at the Bellovisto bar you can enjoy Japanese sake along with a luxurious meal while gazing the nightscape of Tokyo. Choose from a selection of premium brand drinks including sake, wine and beer. For food, you can pick from a main dish and four appetisers. Together with a serenading piano performance, you’re sure to spend a night in Tokyo you will  never forget!

     

    There are many other tours to choose from too. Discover the true essence of Japanese sake with VELTRA’s sake tours around Japan!

     

    ■Information

    VELTRA

    Official Website: https://www.veltra.com/en/

    Sake Tours around Japan Page: https://file.veltra.com/en/promotion/asia/japan/sake-tours/

     

  • Sake App “SakeWiz” to be Released in Japan, US, Canada and Singapore for iOS & Android

    13.May.2018 | FOOD

    A mobile app called SakeWiz used for finding information on Japanese sake was released on May 8, 2018 and is available on iOS and Android in Japan, the US, Canada and Singapore.

    日本酒専用アプリ「SakeWiz」(サケウィズ)

    There’s been a boom recently amongst young females in Japan for local sake. SakeWiz was developed to play a role in helping spread the boom of Japanese sake even more through the internet.

     

    The app was officially endorsed by Sake Service Institute (SSI), a Japanese sake service that authorises the Kikisake, or Master of Sake course.

    日本酒専用アプリ「SakeWiz」(サケウィズ)

    Using artificial intelligence, the app has label scanning software to search for Japanese sake brands and names which can be difficult to remember. Additionally, you can save your favourite brands on the app to share and recommend with friends.

     

    Sake has a tendency to mostly be enjoyed by males and females in their 30s. The polyphenol effect, which became the impetus for the first wine boom in Japan, also played a role in lighting a fire amongst young women who are consistently the leaders consumption in this area.

    日本酒専用アプリ「SakeWiz」(サケウィズ)

    There are plans to implement more functions such as to enable users to be able to comment on sake and food they like, as well as introduce coupons. The app is also available in multiple languages, including Chinese and Korean.

    日本酒専用アプリ「SakeWiz」(サケウィズ)

    If you love Japanese sake or someone who wants to try out all the sake that Japan has to offer, then consider downloading SakeWiz.

     

    ■Information

    SakeWiz

    Fuctions:

    ・Label scanning

    ・Favourites list

    ・Japanese sake online purchasing

    ・User community

    ・Search function for restaurants serving Japanese sake

    ・Ability to post on social media including Facebook and Instagram

     

    Download:http://l.ead.me/baqirY

     

    Firenze SAKE:http://firenzesake.jp/

RELATED ENTRIES

  • Nagomi Chosen as Ambassador for the ‘CASETiFY Holiday Gift Guide’

    26.November.2024 | FASHION

    The 2024 holiday campaign by CASETiFY, the global lifestyle brand that advocates for its customers to embrace their individuality with its customizable smartphone cases and tech accessories, has officially begun. Nagomi has been named an ambassador for this year’s CASETiFY Holiday Gift Guide.

     

    The key message of the campaign is “You will definitely find the perfect gift for that special someone.” The Holiday Gift Guide features a selection of gifts selected by Nagomi either for yourself or a loved one at CASETiFY’s official online store and physical stores.

     

    On December 14, Nagomi will hold at event at CASETiFY STUDIO Shibuya PARCO.

  • [Channel47] Inbound Travel Product Allowing Visitors to Experience the “Real Japanese Countryside” in Iida, Nagano Prefecture Now on Sale

    19.November.2024 | FOOD / SPOT

    As part of the ongoing Channel47 project, which uses the power of local resources and entertainment to share Japan and its local culture with the world, a new travel experience titled ‘DEEP EXPERIENCE THE INAKA -TENRYUKYO・IIDA CITY-’ is now on sale, taking visitors to Iida, Nagano Prefecture.

     

    Iida City in Nagano Prefecture will be the location for the tour, with the city selected by the Japan Tourism Agency in 2024 for its ‘Project to Promote Expansion and Quality of Inbound Tourism by Providing Special Experiences for Visitors.’ The Minami Shinshu Tourism Bureau helped to create the tour for inbound travelers to experience the “real” Japanese countryside found in the Tenryu Gorge area of Iida City by funding farmhouse homestays in the area.

     

    By creating a travel experience that takes advantage of the local resources of Tenryu Gorge in Iida City, we aim to promote sustainable tourism activities by communicating the charm of the region to people in both Japan and abroad, revitalizing local production, passing on traditional culture, and strengthening cooperation between local communities.

  • Collaboration between ASOBISYSTEM and New York’s Club The Stranger!

    15.November.2024 | FASHION / FOOD / Uncategorized

    On October 4th (Friday), an event featuring a collaborative stage with ASOBISYSTEM was held at the nightclub “The Stranger,” operated by Outside The Box Amusements (OTBA),  in New York City.

     

    The Stranger is a vibrant nightclub known for its lively atmosphere and unique events. At the event, performers MONSTER GIRL from “KAWAII MONSTER CAFE” and DELIC GIRL from New York’s “SUSHIDELIC” took the stage, both brands produced by artist Sebastian Masuda. Sebastian Masuda himself also made an appearance as a guest DJ, captivating the audience with unique and energetic performances alongside the performers from The Stranger.

     

    This stage marks the first collaboration between ASOBISYSTEM and The Stranger, with plans for further collaborative content in New York and Japan in the future. Through this global exchange, we will promote Japan’s proud KAWAII culture to the world.

    Two Halloween Parties Held at SUSHIDELIC

    In celebration of its first anniversary, SUSHIDELIC NY, a sushi restaurant in New York’s SoHo district, hosted Halloween parties on October 25 and October 26. The vibrant restaurant transformed into a dark-themed space for a limited time, creating a thrilling and immersive experience with a unique atmosphere and special performances.

    The restaurant is also offering a Halloween menu through October 31. Enjoy the pure imagination of Halloween with SUSHIDELIC’s exclusive menu, available for a limited time.

  • Toua to Release First EP ‘I am I’ Featuring Two New Songs

    13.November.2024 | MUSIC

    On November 27, Toua will release her first EP, I am I, both physically and digitally.

     

    The lead track on the EP, I am I, became a hot topic following its July release, with over 10,000 TikTok videos in just three weeks. Also included is Young -MINE remix-, TREKKIE TRAX’s Afro-pop rearrangement of the popular 2022 song highlighting the emotions and struggles that teens face. The EP includes four songs in total, from MY Routine, a reggaeton bop with lyrics by up-and-coming rapper Minami Nakamura, and MEmories, a Y2K-inspired song composed by ‘Carpainter’ from MEZZ and TREKKIE TRAX CREW.

     

    With the message of “I, MY, ME, MINE” in each song title, the EP expresses the importance of loving yourself as you are and embracing self-expression.

     

    The cover artwork was created by Keisuke Shimizu once again, who has worked as creative director for THE FIRST TAKE and NHK’s music documentary Okaeri Ongakushitsu. “To extract Toua’s character, I decided to highlight her most impactful parts,” Shimizu said. “Even if you only look at the hands, feet, nose, lips, or other body parts, you can easily recognize that it is Toua. That’s proof that she is truly iconic!”

     

    The EP will be available in two forms: a Limited First Edition including a 12-inch record-size paper jacket with a CD, a B2-size poster, and a lyrics card, and a Standard Edition including a paper jacket with a CD and an 8-page booklet. Listeners are invited to enjoy the Gen Z icon’s music and visuals together. In addition, select CD shops and online stores will hand out special purchase bonuses while supplies last.

     

    Release events will also be held in various locations, with details scheduled to be revealed soon.

     

  • MANON Releases New Song ‘Growing Pains’

    05.November.2024 | MUSIC

    On November 15, MANON released her new song Growing Pains.

     

    MANON often appears on Spotify’s ‘hyperpop’ playlist and has performed with many popular artists, such as six impala and Alice Longyu Gao. The artist continues to captivate audiences with her blend of hyperpop and gal culture paired with iconic visuals and recently modeled for SHIBUYA109’s 45th-anniversary campaign. While working on her side project bala and collaborating with edhiii boi, RAU DEF, and others, MANON has completed her new song, marking her first solo release in over a year.

     

    The new track was produced by popular trackmaker KOTONOHOUSE, who collaborated with MANON on Friday night彡☆ in 2023. Four years after moving to Tokyo from Fukuoka, the 22-year-old singer expresses her frustrations and struggles straightforwardly through her lyrics. MANON sings over an emotional rock mix, making this the most anthemic song in MANON’s career.

     

    Additionally, a new artist photo was released alongside the track.

  • KAWAII LAB.’s New Program ‘KAWAII LAB.’s Road to Being Super KAWAII’ Begins, KAWAII LAB. to Hold 3rd Anniversary Performance

    05.November.2024 | FOOD / MUSIC / SPOT

    Idol project KAWAII LAB. kicked off its new program, KAWAII LAB’s Road to Being Super KAWAII, on TV Asahi’s official YouTube channel ‘Douga, Hajimetemimashita.’

     

    KAWAII LAB. groups FRUITS ZIPPER, CANDY TUNE, SWEET STEADY, and CUTIE STREET will participate in the program, featuring projects that transcend group boundaries. In addition, a special third anniversary performance, KAWAII LAB. 3rd Anniversary Special LIVE ‘Watashitachino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro,’ will take place on February 22, 2025 at K Arena Yokoyama. All KAWAII LAB. groups will perform, including a mixed unit performance exclusively for the event. Tickets are now available for pre-order.

     

    A collaboration cafe will be held at the EX Garden Cafe in the atrium on the first floor of TV Asahi’s headquarters from November 14 until December 26 to celebrate the start of the new program and the KAWAII LAB. special live performance at K Arena Yokohama. Visitors can enjoy food and drinks inspired by each group in the decorated restaurant, and original goods will also be available.

     

    [Member Comments]
    FRUITS ZIPPER: Yui Sakurai
    “I’m so happy to start a new program with all of KAWAII LAB. We’ll keep updating ourselves to become super KAWAII!
We hope to make this a weekly program that everyone who watches will enjoy.”

     

    CANDY TUNE: Nanako Ogawa
    “When I heard about this project for the first time, I was happy & surprised! Every member of KAWAII LAB is so charming, and I hope that we can convey that through this program. I want to do my best so that everyone who watches this program will love it!”

     

    SWEET STEADY: Nagisa Shoji
    “I’m very happy and looking forward to the start of this new program! I haven’t been able to talk a lot with members from other groups yet, so I’ll be happy to take part in a lot of girl’s talk on this show. I’ll do my best to make sure everyone enjoys the show!”

     

    CUTIE STREET: Emiru Kawamoto
    “I’m nervous about starting this new program, but I want to make it something that will cheer up the people watching! We had a lot of fun and laughed so much during the first recording, so we’ll be sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces.”

  • Singer-Songwriter Natsuki Kawanishi to Release New Song ‘Sentimental & Hot Coffee’

    31.October.2024 | MUSIC / Uncategorized

    Singer-songwriter Natsuki Kawanishi will release her new song, Sentimental & Hot Coffee, on November 20.

     

    The new track is a sentimental love song that describes the difference in views on love between men and women, as well as the common interval between “being strong” and “wanting to be pampered.” At the start of winter, when people begin to miss the touch of human skin, Kawanishi’s warm and resonant voice aims to soothe the loneliness of the masses.

     

    The song has been selected as the “Radio Kansai Recommended Song” for November on Radio Kansai. It has also been chosen as the November ending theme for RSK Sanyo Broadcasting’s KYUN! MUSIC.

     

    [Comment from Natsuki Kawanishi]
    “This song is perfect for the winter season, when “cold” and “loneliness” intersect and people miss human touch. This new song shares the emotions of the main character, who wavers between wanting to be strong and wanting to be taken care of. Even when her memories haunt her, she doesn’t say what she wants to say. I expressed my desire to hide that sadness and internal conflict by blaming it all on the season.”

  • The new program Okashi Mogumogu will begin airing on October 24 on CBC TV, and the members of CANDY TUNE will appear regularly as MCs.

     

    The music variety show will highlight the lyrics of guest artists’ songs and delve deeply into them through conversation. CANDY TUNE members will also travel to various regions around the country to listen to the favorite lyrics of people they meet. In the first installment, Kotomi Tachibana and Nanako Ogawa will visit Takayama in Gifu.

     

    [Comments from First Episode’s Starring Members]
    Mizuki Kirihara (Episode 1 MC)
    “We had a guest artist on the program and heard their story behind the creation of their music and their interpretation of their lyrics. It was so fun to get a glimpse into the songwriter’s mind!”

     

    Rino Fukuyama (Episode 1 MC)
    “After recording Episodes 1 and 2, I was surprised to see that each guest artist wrote lyrics from a completely different vector! As I began my talk as the MC, it was such a wonderful thing to experience the virtues of the artists and their lyrics.”

     

    Kotomi Tachibana (On Location)
    “I’m often called the shyest member, so I was super nervous to just talk to people I’d never met before on the street in a new town. As I listened to the favorite lyrics of the people I met, I discovered that some were ones I knew, while others didn’t seem to fit with the person’s character. So many unique experiences!”

     

    Nanako Ogawa (On Location)
    “No music, no life! I listen to a lot of music, so I really enjoyed this opportunity to shoot on location! As I listened to people’s favorite lyrics, I thought to myself “I wonder if they live each day with those lyrics in their heart,” and I got very emotional!”

  • Illustrator BEY to Hold ‘NEW WAMERICAN’ Solo Exhibition at TRUNK (HOTEL) Starting November 1

    22.October.2024 | FASHION / SPOT

    Illustrator BEY’s solo exhibition ‘NEW WAMERICAN’ will be held at TRUNK (HOTEL) in Shibuya starting November 1. 

     

    BEY is known for his illustrations inspired by the ‘Wamerican’ theme, a blend of Japanese culture, including ukiyo-e, and American pop culture. Currently, he is attracting attention as an up-and-coming creator who also works on CD jackets for artists and window art for apparel brands.

     

    Canvas works newly painted for the exhibition will be exhibited and sold, and new merchandise such as teacups and Palo Santo with limited edition packaging will be available. 

     

    [Comment from BEY]
    “I hope to approach this exhibition as the first of its kind to showcase the new expressions of ‘WAMERICAN,’ a style which has continued to evolve over the past seven years, with a focus on original paintings on canvas. I hope tons of people will come to visit!”

     

  • CUTIE STREET to Release 1st Single CD ‘Can’t We Just Be Cute? ~Kawaii Dakejya Damedesuka?~’ on November 13

    16.October.2024 | MUSIC / Uncategorized

    After making its debut this August, the new idol group CUTIE STREET will release its first single CD, Can’t We Just Be Cute? ~Kawaii Dakejya Damedesuka?~, on November 13. The music video for the song is already available along with the jacket and artist photo.

    The digital single Can’t We Just Be Cute? ~Kawaii Dakejya Damedesuka?~ was released on September 8 and was ranked #1 on the TikTok Weekly Top 20 (from September 20 – October 6, 2024) and has become a hot topic, also reaching the top spot on Spotify’s ‘Viral Top 50 – Japan’ playlist, which ranks the hottest songs on social media.

     

    The art for the upcoming single CD’s jacket was designed by Keiichiro Oshima and photographed by Takeshi Hanzawa. Following the theme of “our own sparkling jewels,” the jewelry portion of the pictured ring is made up of each sparkling member, all bringing their unique sparkle that fans hope will continue to shine.

     

    The costumes were designed by Kumiko Iijima, who has created costumes for countless artists and follows the theme of “I am different than everyone else, and I can be anything I want to be.” Each member’s costume design is different, including frills, ribbons, lace, tulle, and other ‘kawaii’ elements that appear often in girl’s dreams. The member’s individuality shines through, expressed through the creation of original accessories.

    Limited First Edition

    CUTIE STREET Edition

    Standard Edition

  • CUTIE STREET Displays Top-Tier KAWAII to a Full House at First Solo Concert

    11.October.2024 | MUSIC / Uncategorized

    Idol group CUTIE STREET, which debuted this August, held its first solo concert CUTIE STREET Solo Live – 01 STREET – at Tokyo Hulic Hall on October 7, 2024.

     

    CUTIE STREET is composed of eight members: Risa Furusawa, Aika Sano, Kana Itakura, Ayano Masuda, Emiru Kawamoto, Miyu Umeda, Nagisa Manabe, and Haruka Sakuraba. The girls made their debut as part of ASOBISYSTEM’s KAWAII LAB. idol project in Summer 2024, with the group’s concept being “KAWAII MAKER.” The eight members are all different ages and come from different backgrounds, and they aim to transmit KAWAII from Harajuku to the world. 

     

    This solo performance was held about two months after the girls made their stage debut. Tickets were sold out and many fans came to the venue way before the show, eager to see the girls perform on their big day.

    As the Overture played, the members appeared on stage one after another, with the audience erupting with shouts of joy. Their first song performed solo was Devoted Cinderella! Despite clearly being nervous, the girls continued to smile, performing earnestly like princesses in a fairy tale.

     

    After the song, the eight members greeted the fans gathered at the venue. Adorably, each girl introduced herself and announced what they had eaten for breakfast that day. “I’m so happy to see so many people here,” Manabe said. “I hope that even more people will come to love CUTIE STREET!” 

     

    The second song performed was Can’t We Just Be Cute? ~Kawaii Dakejya Damedesuka? The track is getting rave reviews and recently ranked first in the ‘TikTok Popular Songs Ranking 50.’ The song is scheduled to be released via CD on November 13 and features a catchy pop melody and fun dialogue and phrases from the members. The performance was open to video recording, and the eight too-cute performers can be seen on TikTok and other social networking sites.

    Following this, the group covered the song Nantene! by SWEET STEADY, another idol group belonging to the same label. They performed to the best of their ability, utilizing a different kind of charm than their seniors. The girls also showed off their diverse talents filled with unlimited potential, with Unlock My Heart, a cool song with a rock-style melody, and daylight, an emotional song with a fast pace. CUTIE STREET also performed the new song Happy World! for the first time, showing off choreography filled with fist-pumping and energy. The audience couldn’t help but smile, and the entire venue was filled to the brim with happiness.

     

    The final part of the concert began with Hello Hello Mirai as Furusawa called out to the audience. “Are you ready to wave your penlights?” Penlights displaying the girl’s member colors twinkled like a starry sky throughout the venue. The light shone as if it was congratulating the girls on their future lives as idols. Lastly, the group performed their popular song Can’t We Just Be Cute? ~Kawaii Dakejya Damedesuka? one more time, with the girls charming the audience with their extreme cuteness.

     

    CUTIE STREET announced a solo performance to commemorate the CD release of their first single, Can’t We Just Be Cute? ~Kawaii Dakejya Damedesuka?, would be held at Hulic Hall Tokyo on November 13, with a second solo performance scheduled for December 5. The surprises did not end there, as the group also told fans that on October 16, they would release the music video for the song, getting the audience more excited. A teaser for the music video has already been revealed.

    The eight idols have continued to grow at a rapid pace since their debut, and no one knows what the future holds. After seeing such an engaging solo performance, fans are excited to see what’s in store, as CUTIE STREET’s journey has only just begun.

  • CANDY TUNE to Release New Song ‘Are You Zombie?”

    10.October.2024 | MUSIC

    On October 18, CANDY TUNE will release the new track Are You Zombie? Ahead of the song’s release, it is already available to stream on TikTok.

     

    This song is CANDY TUNE’s first Halloween song and features a cute arrangement and catchy chorus that embodies the spirit of mischief. The lyrics, music, and arrangement were all handled by songwriter Satsuki ga Tenkomori.

     

    Additionally, Halloween events will be held on October 27 and October 30 to celebrate the song’s release.

    @candy_tune 本日よりTikTok先行配信スタート😈❣️ CANDY TUNE『君もゾンビですか ゾンビですね』 みんなでハロウィンを盛り上げよー🧟❤️‍🩹 是非#君ゾン でたくさん投稿してね🍬 #きゃんちゅー#CANDYTUNE #君ゾン#君もゾンビですかゾンビですね #ハロウィン#Halloween ♬ 君もゾンビですか ゾンビですね – 1サビ ver. – CANDY TUNE

RANKING

  • DAILY
  • MONTHLY

FOLLOW US