The ancient city of Kyoto enjoys waves of tourists and sightseers from around the world throughout the year. It is particularly hot during the summertime because it’s situated in a valley. If you’ve never walked around Kyoto’s towns at night then we invite you to add it onto your list of sightseeing experiences.
We have compiled a list of 5 must-visit locations to best enjoy Kyoto’s nightscape. We are joined by Taka, a Japanese Instagrammer who conveys the beauty of Kyoto through his picturesque photographs which has has provided us today.
Kyoto Station & Kyoto Tower
The modern architecture of Kyoto Station is a juxtaposition against the traditional image of Kyoto. There are lots of great places inside the station where you can get up high and gaze down at Kyoto’s streets, but the absolutely unmissable nighttime spot are the mirrored windows. When evening sets in, you can see Kyoto Tower―which is opposite the station―reflected on the outside. Of course, you can enjoy the tower during the day too, but at night they light it up, making for a truly magical sight.
▼Kyoto Station
Address: Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
Kyoto Station Building Official Website: https://www.kyoto-station-building.co.jp/
▼Kyoto Tower
Address: 721-1 Higashishiokojicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
Opening Hours: 9:00-21:00 (Last Entries 20:40)
*Opening hours subject to change without notice
Official Website: https://www.keihanhotels-resorts.co.jp/kyoto-tower/
Yasaka Shrine
Yasaka Shrine is an easy sightseeing spot to reach being just a 5-minute stroll from Gion-Shijo Station. The shrine is a power spot said to provide good luck when it comes to marriage ties. It bustles with visits from people from around the world and is in fact open 24-hours a day.
Paying a visit at night provides you with an entirely different look at Yasaka Shrine. Why not dine out along Shijō Street and take a walk to the shrine when the sky turns dark?
▼Yasaka Shrine
Address: 625 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
Official Website: http://www.yasaka-jinja.or.jp/
Kyoto Minamiza Theatre
Minamiza is the oldest theatre in Japan and is officially registered as a Japanese Tangible Cultural Property. Like Yasaka Shrine, the closest station to the theatre is Gion-Shijo Station. Leave through Exit 6 and it’s right outside.
Minamiza has a long history spanning back to 1610 when it was founded. In May this year, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu performed a special concert there entitled Kyary Kabuki Kabuki which made use of projection mapping, fusing history and tradition with the latest cutting-edge technology to provide a concert like no other. The theatre is becoming a new sightseeing spot as it is lit up at nighttime. All of the lights are turned on until 10pm after which just the roof lights are kept on.
▼Kyoto Minamiza Theatre
Address: 198 Nakanocho, Higashiyama, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
Official Website: https://www.shochiku.co.jp/play/theater/minamiza/
Ninenzaka
Ninenzaka is a long winding road that leads up to Kiyomizu-dera temple and is also a very famous tourist spot. It is registered under the Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Historic Buildings. In the daytime, the street bustles with locals and tourists dipping in and out of the souvenir shops, but the dark evenings of Ninenzaka are another kind of wonderful. The number of tourists drops significantly at night meaning you can have the street all to yourself and take plenty of photos, warm lanterns lighting your way.
▼Ninenzaka
Address: 2 Kiyomizu, Masuyacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
Official Website: http://www.2nenzaka.ne.jp/
Kiyomizu-dera
Kiyomizu-dera is a 25-minute walk from Kiyomizu-Gojō Station which is reached via the Keihan Main Line. Registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient Buddhist temple is a very popular tourist destination. What we want those of you to see when visiting in the evening is the beautiful sunset which can be seen from the temple, colouring the streets of Kyoto a gorgeous orange.
▼Kiyomizu-dera
Address: 1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
Opening Hours: https://www.kiyomizudera.or.jp/access.php
Official Website: https://www.kiyomizudera.or.jp/
Taka has visited so many incredible locations in Kyoto, so if you’re planning a trip there and need some recommendations be sure to follow him on Instagram.
Photos: Taka
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The ancient city of Kyoto enjoys flurries of tourists and sightseers from around the world throughout the year. It is particularly hot during the summertime because it’s located in a valley.
Shojuin is a Buddhist Temple located in a summer retreat that was erected nearly 800 years ago. Hidden at the temple is the 11-faced Buddha statue of Kannon Bosatsu which is open to the public only once every 50 years.
The temple has a long history, and today it is used as a site for yoga, copying the sutras, and other activities when booked in advance. It’s enjoyed by people of all ages.
Today, we are joined by Macchan, an Instagrammer who tours the many sightseeing spots of Kyoto. They have provided photographs of the must-see parts of this ancient temple.
Shojuin is famous for its beautiful heart-shaped window located in the reception hall as well as its 160 pieces of ceiling art. The decorative window has been around for nearly 1,400 years and has survived disasters. It stands as a symbol of happiness.
From outside the heart window visitors can enjoy the different flowers through the four seasons. Right now during summer the view is a green spectacle. At nighttime the outdoor garden is lit up beautifully as shown in the photo.
Shojuin is famous for its summer Wind Chime Festival which is currently running until September 18.
2,000 colourful wind chimes gently sway around the temple with the summer breeze. The chimes are there for their sound and appearance and to elicit that sense of refreshing coolness.
Even the wind chimes are illuminated in the evenings. They are lit up on weekends only (except August 1 to 18) from 18:00-20:00.
The hypnotic ring of the wind chimes sounds they are calling the wind. If you’re travelling to Kyoto this hot summer, why not plan a trip to Shojuin?
Macchan has lots of other photos on their Instagram where you can feel the vibe of Kyoto. Use it as reference when you’re planning your Kyoto sightseeing.
Information
Shojuin
Address: Kawakami-149 Okuyamada, Ujitawara, Tsuzuk District, Kyoto
Access:
①Reachable by Keihan Uji Bus (Numbers 180, 182 or 184) from Uji Station and Shin-Tanabe Station. Get off at Ichumae Bus Stop (維中前)
②10 minutes by the Okayamada Community Bus or taxi
Official Website: http://shoujuin.boo.jp/
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Eggs ’n Things, Shijo Street, Kyoto will be selling luxurious Uji matcha pancakes from August 1, 2019.
Eggs ‘n Things Shijo Street first launched their delicious uji matcha pancakes back in February 2017. The pancakes quickly became a big hit among the locals as well as the tourists, appealing to visitors who wanted to discover more about Kyoto. This summer, Eggs ‘n Things is packing their Kyoto-limited pancakes with even more Kyoto goodness.
These pancakes are luxuriously covered with rich matcha custard cream and garnished with rice flour dumplings, adzuki bean paste, chestnuts and a mini monaka wafer cake. Matcha is even kneaded into the pancake dough, maximising its mellow flavour. If you visit Kyoto, be sure to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of matcha ordering these matcha pancakes at Eggs ‘n Things Shijo Street, Kyoto.
Information
Kyoto-limited Uji Matcha Pancakes
Price: ￥1,580 (before tax)
Limited sale period start date: August 1, 2019
Restaurant: Eggs ’n Things Shijo Street, Kyoto
Eggs ’n Things Shijo Street, Kyoto
Address: 47-4, Motoakuojicho, Higashinoroindori Shijo Sagaru, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 9:00 ー 22:00 (last orders: 21:00)
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The bustling Kyoto Prefecture is located in the Kansai region of Japan, adored for its historical architecture and richness in traditional Japanese culture for which it brings in tourists every year both Japanese and foreign.
Summertime in Kyoto is renowned for being very hot. We’ve compiled a list of 3 must-visit locations where you can cool down during the summer heat―each of which have beautiful sights―and how to get to them.
Explore the Caverns of Shizushi Limestone Cave Park
The only limestone caves in Kyoto Prefecture, Shizushi Limestone Cave Park offers an exciting mix of outdoor activities from cave exploration to camping, bird watching and much more. The caves are a designated national monument of Kyoto Prefecture. Many fossils have been collected from the caves that date back to before the Permian period (which ended 252.2 million years ago) including fusulinida and crinoids. The temperature of the caves sits between 12℃-15℃ throughout the year making it a very popular spot for cooling off during times of hot weather.
▼Shizushi Limestone Cave Park
Address: Shizushi, Kyotamba, Funai District, KyotoAccess: Board a JR bus from Sonobe Station (JR Sagano Line) bound for Enpuku (園福線) and get off at Hinokiyama (桧山). Change onto a Choei (町営) bus. Get off at the Shizushi Limestone Cave entrance (鐘乳洞口) and walk for 5 minutes.
Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00
Website: http://www.kyotamba.org/質志鐘乳洞公園/
Beach Swings and Sunsets at Yuhigaura
Yuhigaura sits on the coast of Kyoto’s Tango area and is known for its iconic sunsets. Every year during summertime, giant swings made from driftwood and other materials are placed onto the beaches. Sitting on these during the evening sunset make for an incredibly picturesque scene.
And this year they’re serving an original drink called the “Magic Hour” for a limited time.
▼Yuhigaura
Address, 390 Aminocho Hamazume, Kyotango, Kyoto PrefectureAccess: Board the Limited Express Hashidate (特急はしだて号) train at Kyoto Station and get off at Yūhigaura-Kitsu-onsen Station (夕日ヶ浦木津温泉)
Homepage: http://yuukan.com/news/17/?view_oft=0
Amanohashidate Sandbar Illuminations
Last year’s illuminations at the Amanohashidate sandbar brought in over 30,000 people. The sandbar is one of Japan’s three scenic views. The illumination event is held annually with this year’s running from July 13 to September 1. The lights turn the sandbar into a truly magical spectacle.
A special bar is also open for the light-up where you can get drinks along with several other exciting events surrounding it.
▼Amanohashidate Light-Up
Address: Monju, Miyazu, KyotoRunning: July 13, 2019 – September 1, 2019
Event Details: https://www.facebook.com/amanohashidate.machiakari/Stay cool this summer in Kyoto by hitting up one of these tourist hot spots!
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Kyoto, also known as the “old capital,” is renowned for its historical architecture and richness in traditional Japanese culture, bring in tourists every year both Japanese and foreign. The city has an especially popular food culture, serving everything from traditional Japanese cuisine to twists of contemporary cuisine.
Today we take a look at 4 different shaved ice desserts you must try in Kyoto this summer all of which are equally worth lining up for.
Hatagoya Rihei – Espuma Matcha Shaved Ice
Kyoto is the home of Uji matcha, and its city of Joyo is home to Hatagoya Rihei, a Japanese confectionery shop which specialises in dorayaki, a traditional dessert in Japan which consists of two pancakes filled with sweet adzuki bean paste.
The absolute must-try contender on their menu is the Espuma Matcha Shaved Ice which is lavishly packed full of matcha. Available for a limited-time only, this shaved ice is made with espuma, which is Spanish for “foam.” It’s a mix of fluffy shaved ice and a rich matcha sauce which takes on a thick mousse-like texture. The ice and sauce melts the moment it hits your tongue, creating a new kind of texture that makes for light eating. It comes with a side of toppings including matcha honey, red bean paste, rice flour dumplings, and matcha jelly. The dessert can be enjoyed from start to finish as you mix and match all the different flavours to your taste.
▼Hatagoya Rihei
Address: Higashinokuchi-44-54 Terada, Joyo, Kyoto
Business Hours: 10:00-18:00
Closed: Tuesdays
Access: Joyo Station via JR Nara Line / Terada Station via Nara Line
Official Website: http://rihe.jp/
Senba Miyabi – Mix Juicy Shaved Ice
Senba Miyabi is another shop in Joyo which specialises in fruit sandwiches and confections. It is managed by the fruit shop Fruit Shop Senba which are known for their high quality fruit selection.
Their Mix Juicy Shaved Ice is drizzled in a cute pink sauce which is a juiced mix of strawberry, banana, kiwi, pineapple and other fresh fruits. The shaved ice is topped with even more assorted fruits for colour and flavour, and even more fruits are hidden inside. If you like sweet things, we recommend making the flavour even richer by topping with condensed milk or ice cream.
▼Senba Miyabi
Address: Fukurojiri-19-1 Terada, Joyo, Kyoto
Business Hours: 10:00-19:00
Closed: Mondays
Access: 420m from Joyo Station via JR Nara Line
Official Website: http://www.senba2018.com/
Amami no Ie Takegushi – Berry Berry Custard
Amami no Ie Takegushi is a cafe located in Kyoto Prefecture’s city of Kizugawa where you can enjoy handmade Japanese confections and pastries as well as indulge in some great coffee.
Their bright-red Berry Berry Custard shaved ice is like powdered snow, topped with an strawberry and assorted berry sauce and velvety fresh cream. Hiding inside the ice is custard made with specially made condensed milk by Clover Farm in Kizugawa. It also contains condensed milk honey and frozen berries for a refreshing sweet and sour combination.
▼Amami no Ie Takegushi
Address: 2-6-9 Umemidai, Kizugawa, Kyoto
Business Hours: [Tues] 14:30-17:30 / [Wed-Fri] 11:00-17:30 / [Sat] 11:00-17:30
Closed: Mondays & Sundays
Access: 26-minutes on foot from Kizu Station via JR Kansai Main Line
Official Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/kyoto.kizugawa.kushitake
Gion Tokuya – Bancha Shaved Ice
Gion Tokuya takes the utmost pride and care in its use of high quality ingredients. Their Bancha Shaved Ice is lined with fresh lemon slices and covered in a syrup made from bancha tea and sugar. The way you eat this shaved ice is to slowly drizzle the syrup over the dessert right before eating. A spoonful will cover your taste buds with fragrant Kyoto-style bancha tea and a gentle sweetness. Eating it together with the lemon slices makes it taste like lemon tea. If you’re looking to enjoy something refreshing or to cool you down then we recommend this one!
▼Gion Tokuya
Address: 570-127 Gionmachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefectur
Business Hours: 12:00-18:00
No Fixed Holidays
Access:
6-minutes on foot from Gion-Shijō Station via the Keihan Main Line
8-minutes on foot from Kawaramachi Station via the Hankyu Kyoto Main LineOfficial Website: http://gion-tokuya.jp/index.html
If you’re visiting Kyoto for summer then what better way to cool yourself down than with some refreshing shaved ice? Be sure to try out one of these 4 cute and unique shaved ice desserts this summer.
Photos/Information: KYOTO SIDE
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Kyoto-based green tea company Itohkyuemon has been around since the end of the Edo period, its longevity having established itself has a hugely popular store. The company have just announced that they will open their first ever tea house extension in Kyoto called Itohkyuemon Gion Shijo on August 7.
The cafe will serve up its own exclusive menu items from desserts to meals.
(Left) Gion Parfait – ¥1,480 / (Right) Sweets Plate – ¥1,680
The Gion Parfait is made with high-quality Uji matcha, something Itohkyumon is renowned for. It’s served in a large parfait class bigger than their usual matcha parfait and is stacked sumptuously with chestnuts, tamba black beans, chocolate, a slice of Uji matcha roll cake, and more.
If you love Japanese tea then you’ll adore the Sweets Plate which is filled with an assortment of matcha and houjicha sweets.
Matcha Curry Udon: ¥980
The Matcha Curry Udon, which was previously sold only at the JR Uji Station branch of Itohkyuemon, will now be served at the new establishment. This Itohkyuemon-original dish is a combination of chewy matcha udon noodles and white broth matcha curry. The curry is also served as a souvenir; when it was first released in 2014 it sold out its stock of 2,000 in just two days. Experience matcha like never before when visiting Kyoto at Itohkyuemon Gion Shijo.
Information
Itohkyuemon Gion Shijo
Address: 586 Gionmachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto (Japanese Address: 京都市東山区四条通大和大路東南角祇園町南側586 井澤南ビル)
Business Hours: 11:00-19:00 (Last Orders 18:30)
No Fixed Holidays (Except New Year’s)
Website: https://www.itohkyuemon.co.jp/site/gionshijo/
Gion Parfait
Price: ¥1,480 (Tax Included)
Sweets Plate
Price: ¥1,680 (Tax Included)
as Drink Set: ¥1,980 (Tax Included)
Matcha Curry Udon
Price: ¥980 (Tax Included)
as Rice Set: ¥1,240 (Tax Included)
as Rice & Mini Parfait Set: ¥1,580 (Tax Included)
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Kyoto is renowned for its historical architecture and richness in traditional Japanese culture, but did you know it’s also home to some extremely cute and delicious desserts? Their sweets and desserts are actually pretty popular, some of which contain motifs and little nods to the city.
Today, Instagrammer meme takes us on a tour in Kyoto to try out 4 popular desserts.
JEREMY&JEMIMAH
JEREMY&JEMIMAH is a shop selling cute and colourful cotton candy. Their staple Wata-Hako cotton candy comes in 10 different flavours! In the photo we have yuzu, rose and matcha flavours. Of the two branches of the store, there is one along Furukawacho Shopping Street where you order your cotton candy for takeout, and another in Yasaka that serves cotton candy on long sticks.
We picked up a few different ones since there are so many flavours and designs. It was fun lining them up to take a picture.
We took them home to eat and they stayed nice and fluffy the whole way back. The yuzu one tasted a little herbal, like it was healthy for you.
▼JEREMY&JEMIMAH (Furukawacho Shopping Street Branch)
Address: Furukawacho Shopping Street, 444-3 Hachikenchō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 11:00-17:00
Official Website: http://www.jeremyjemimah.com/
ROCCA & FRIENDS TRUCK
At ROCCA & FRIENDS TRUCK, you can order these iced dessert matcha and houjicha lattes which are topped with yatsuhashi―a confection sold in Kyoto―shaped into various sights across the city including Kyoto Tower, Hōkanji Temple, Daimonji, a Torii gate, and more.
I ordered the matcha latte. The drink itself isn’t sweet at all so you can enjoy the full original rich and bitter flavour of the matcha. The fresh cream however is quite sweet so you can mix it into the drink as much as you want to get your desired flavour.
There are lots of great spots in the area such as the Hōkanji Temple pagoda and Yasaka Shrine so you can snap some great sightseeing photos♡
▼ROCCA & FRIENDS TRUCK
Address: 370 Yasaka Kamimachi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
Opening Hours: 9:00-18:00
Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rocca.truck/
Jumondo
We also visited Jumondo which sells Kyoto-style dango, or “sweet dumplings.” We shared three different orders amongst three people: Danraku (団楽) which comes as a set with a drink, Dandan (だんだん) which comes with matcha, and Zenzai to Aburi Kuri Kinton (ぜんざいと炙り栗きんとん).
Once you order, the dango are made fresh so are served hot and chewy. Each dumpling is on the small side so are nice and easy to eat.
The Danraku comes with five different dumplings including sweet soy glaze, mashed sweet bean paste, soy sauce and black sesame seed, fried, and white miso. The Dandan comes with three types of your choice and a wafer filled with mashed sweet bean paste. The Zenzai to Aburi Kuri Kinton with mashed sweet potatoes with sweetened chestnut dango. The final one comes with matcha which can be served hot or cold.
Everything was tasty but my personal favourite was the yuzu flavoured white miso dumpling.
The one that everybody raved about was the Zenzai which is a thick soup that the dango are placed into. These dumplings are bigger, not too sweet and light. The soup went really well with the dango, it was super tasty.
▼Jumondo
Address: 76 Tamamizuchō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
TEL: 075-525-3733
Official Website: http://jumondo.jp/index.html
Kyo Yasaka Pudding
Yasaka is a particularly popular tourist spot in Kyoto, and that’s where the cute purin shop Kyo Yasaka Pudding is located.
Purin is a type of custard purring sold in Japan. The first pudding we picked up was the store’s recommended option named after the store itself, the Kyo Yasaka Pudding. It contains a transparent lemon and honey flavoured jelly inside which there are small and colourful agar agar balls and mango jelly balls.
It has an enjoyable texture and a refreshing sweetness that I’ve never experienced before with other purin. It’s very tasty!
There are five flavours to choose from, the others being hard, smooth, matcha and black soy bean, and houjicha black soy bean. All are served in tiny cute jars. Not only do they look great, they taste amazing too. Each is made with ingredients sourced in Kyoto including the milk, Uji matcha, houjicha, and black soy beans.
They also sell soft serve ice cream topped with candy balls, very Kyoto-like! You can choose from vanilla, matcha, or a mix of both. I think it’ll be really fun if you can snap a photo of your ice cream with one of Yasaka’s stylish locations in the background! Speaking of which, there was a cute illustration on the wall of the store so we took our photo there.
Be sure to pay a visit to Kyo Yasaka Pudding to pick up your own pudding whether as a souvenir or for yourself.
▼Kyo Yasaka Pudding
Address: 87-4 Hoshinochō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
TEL: 075-533-8338
Official Website: https://kyo-yasaka-pudding.co.jp/
Kyoto is full of shops selling desserts and sweets perfect to walk around and munch on while you walk its ancient streets, or to take home as a souvenir. Enjoy all the tasty things you can during your visit to this beautiful city♡
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Photos/Text: meme
Translation: Joshua Kitosi-Isanga
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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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The cities of Hirosaki and Hakodate in Hokkaido have announced that they will team up with Hatsune Miku’s popular iteration Snow Miku to promote tourism in the area this winter. A number of activities will begin in December 2022.
[Snow Miku x Hirohako] Collaboration Project
■Hirohako Winter Tourism Campaign Poster Featuring Snow Miku
・Period: Mid-November~February 28, 2023
・Locations: Facilities in both cities, tourist facilities, hotels, shopping areas
■Snow Miku Illustration Contest Exhibition Event
Over 50 illustrations have been submitted under the theme of Snow Miku and Hakodate / Snow Miku and Hirosaki. These will be on display through the winter!
・Running: December 1, 2022 – February 28, 2022
・Venues: Hirosaki Municipal Tourist Center (Hirosaki)
Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse (Hakodate)■Snow Miku Photo Spot
Snow Miku panels featuring shamisen and apples from Hirosaki will be on display, while the Hakodate version will include references to squid fishing and footbaths.
・On Display: December 1, 2022 – February 28, 2022
・Locations: JR Hirosaki Station, Chuohirosaki Station (Hirosaki)
JR Hakodate Station, Hakodate Airport (Hakodate)
■Digital Stamp Rally Using the Mikunavi App
A number of panels will be installed at five checkpoints in Hirosaki and Hakodate. A total of 1,000 people–500 in each city–will win original merch including a Snow Miku mask case and decorated masking tape. All you need to do is check in!
・Available: December 1, 2022 – February 28, 2022
・Locations: (Hirosaki) Hirosaki Municipal Tourist Center, Hirosaki City Machinaka Information Center,
Hirosaki Tourist Information Center, Hirosaki Castle Information Center, Tsugaru-han Neputa Village
(Hakodate) Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse, Yunokawa Hot Spring Footbath, Goryōkaku Tower,
Hakodate Green Plaza C Block (Hakodate Lumi-Pop), Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward
■Hirohako Winter Tourism Campaign Theme Song and Music Video
The tourism theme song will get a new music video that will be broadcast on YouTube, at local tourist facilities, and on TV and radio!
・On Air: December 1, 2022~
・Theme Song: Mahou no Keshiki (Lyrics/Composition: ryuryu)
■Snow Miku Welcome Announcements to be Broadcast at Tourism Facilities, etc.
A one-minute welcome announcement by Snow Miku will air at tourist facilities!
・Running: December 1, 2022 – February 28, 2022
・Locations: Tourist areas in both cities
■Snow Miku Filters Using AR
When each barcode is scanned with a smartphone, Snow Miku will appear on the screen! Visitors can take pictures with Snow Miku to commemorate their winter trip to Hirosaki and Hakodate.
・Available: December 1, 2022 – February 28, 2022
Information
Hirosaki x Hakodate x Snow Miku Tourism Campaign
Beginning December 2022
Details: https://www.hirosaki-kanko.or.jp/edit.html?id=hirohako
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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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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/
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The 60th Anniversary Sanrio Exhibition: The Beginning of Kawaii will be held at the Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art from October 7 until December 11, 2022. Cinnamoroll, the grand prize winner of the 2022 Sanrio Character Awards, visited the event on opening day, and second place winner Pompompurin visited on October 8.
The exhibition itself traces the long and storied history of Sanrio, as the company celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2020. Guests will be able to learn more about ‘kawaii culture,’ something that has since garnered worldwide attention and become massively popular with audiences around the globe. Fans of specific Sanrio characters will be able to see how each was designed, and rare drawings and products will be on display.
Visitors will be able to trace how Sanrio developed each character’s personality and style over time, and will surely see how the company placed major importance on communication with audiences. Sanrio’s characters continue to transcend time, popular with people of all ages.Information
60th Anniversary Sanrio Exhibition: The Beginning of Kawaii
Venue: Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, Main Building,
North Corridor 2F (124 Okazaki Enshojicho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto)
Running: October 7 – December 11, 2022
Details: https://www.ktv.jp/event/sanrio/
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At the 5th annual Kyoto Ani-Monozukuri Awards 2022, a collection of Attack on Titan playing cards made in traditional Japanese style took the Gold Prize in the Craft Design category. In Japanese, monozukuri means ‘to make something by hand.’
The Kyoto Ani-Monozukuri Awards aims to revitalize business between the anime industry and local companies and organizations. It honors outstanding collaborative products, inviting those with a creative streak to try their luck at designing something uniquely anime-inspired. This year’s awards show saw 157 total entries, with one winning the grand prize, seven winning both gold and silver, and six winning bronze.
Charaditional Toys was launched this year, and the company aims to create items for adults who love anime characters. The Gold Award was granted to the company after judges were inspired by the traditional Japanese craftsmanship and high quality shown in the final product. Made by Oishi Tengudo, a company founded in Kyoto in 1800, the cards were made using classic methods. These 48 original playing cards are like nothing fans of Attack on Titan have seen before.
A second project is scheduled for release in winter 2022, so stay tuned!
©諫山創・講談社／「進撃の巨人」The Final Season製作委員会
Information
Attack on Titan x Original Playing Cards
Price: Wooden Box Version ¥3,800 / Framed Version ¥18,000 (Both Excluding tax)
Details/Purchase: https://charaditional-toy.myshopify.com
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Fans of the Sound! Euphonium anime will want to visit Hotel Keihan Kyoto Grande from September 23 until November 20, 2022! The second-floor restaurant Octava will be holding a special collaboration cafe with the series in conjunction with the Keihan Electric Railway. The project is part of the collaboration between the series and the local railway that began in August, and fans will be able to order food and drink items inspired by their favorite characters.
Collaboration Menu
Kumiko’s Omurice
Reina’s Pasta with Sweet and Spicy Tomato Sauce
Hazuki’s Matcha Ice Cream & Sapphire’s Macarons
Mr. Taki’s Spicy Curry Pizza
Sound! Tuba-kun’s Fruit Cake
Drink Menu
Kumiko’s Strawberry Milk
Reina’s Butterfly Pea
Hazuki’s Blue Soda
Sapphire’s Orange Juice
Band President & Vice President’s Matcha au Lait
Straw Tags
Bonuses
Bonus for Dining In-store: Lunch Mat
Drink Order Bonus: Coaster (5 varieties, 1 secret)
*Coasters will be given at random.
Life-size Panels
From omurice and pasta to fruit cake and spicy curry pizza, there is certainly a dish perfect for everyone at the cafe. Guests can also enjoy five different types of drinks, and a coaster will be handed out at random for each order. Those dining at the cafe will enjoy their meal on a special lunch mat, and life-size character panels will be perfect for snapping some photos for social media. Music from the series will be played on-site, so come enjoy while you can!
Information
Keihan Electric Railway x Sound! Euphonium 2022
Running: September 23 – November 20, 2022
Lunch: 11:30-14:30 (Last order at 14:00)
Dinner: 17:30-22:00 (Last order at 21:30)
*From 2:30 to 5:30, only items from the take-out drink menu are available.
Reservations Now Open
Reservations: https://bit.ly/3RFPf4i
Venue: Hotel Keihan Kyoto Grande, 2F Restaurant Octavar
https://www.hotelkeihan.co.jp/kyoto/restaurant/
