ONAKA PECO PECO by Rurubu Kitchen is a cafe located in Tsukiji, a district in Chuo, Tokyo. They serve rice balls filled with locally sourced ingredients from various locations in Japan. In the evenings, the rice balls can be enjoyed with delicious sake.
If you visit the cafe right now you’ll be able to try sesame tofu (goma tofu) made by the long-running restaurant Kadohama. Sesame tofu is a meibutsu―or “local speciality”―of Mount Koyo.
While it is possible to buy sesame tofu on Kadohama’s online store, the only places you can eat them out at is at their restaurant on top of Mount Koya or at select branches of department stores such as Mitsukoshi or Isetan. We visited ONAKA PECO PECO by Rurubu Kitchen for a taste of this exquisite collaboration.
Mount Koya is located in the Ito district of northern Wakayama Prefecture and is home to the town of Koya. The region is encased an abundant mountainous landscape. The Japanese Buddhist monk Kūkai opened the sacred mountain around 1,200 years ago. In 2004, Mount Koya which was registered as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2004 under the “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range” category. It has since become a popular tourist destination with Japanese and foreign travellers alike.
Here is the heavenly menu lineup at ONAKA PECO PECO which is packed full of Kadohama’s sesame tofu.
There are five items which are made with the sesame tofu: an onigiri rice ball, crab soup, cold tofu, pork shabu shabu, and a drink.
Time to tuck in and try this famous food which has been enjoyed for many years!
White Vegetables & Steamed Pork Shabu w/ Koji Sesame Tofu Sauce – ¥800
This dish is garnished with a generous serving of fresh white vegetables and succulent meat. It includes lotus root, enoki mushrooms, cauliflower, and pork. It also comes with a white sauce made with sesame tofu, shio koji, and sesame oil. The sauce has a mild flavour in which you can get the full glorious taste of the tofu. It’s smooth and refreshing so is a perfect pick for the hot summer.
Sesame Tofu & Plum Cheese-Loaded Rice Ball – ¥250
This rice ball is a flavourful combination of a sesame tofu and plum paste and lots of cheese.
This fat rice ball is wrapped in paper like a hamburger. The rich taste of the tofu and cheese reduces the sourness of the plum, giving it a gentler flavour.
Sesame Tofu & Egg Crab Soup – ¥400
The soup is an amazing combination with the rice ball. It has a miso soup base filled with green onion, enoki mushrooms, and crab. The elastic-y tofu is cut into big satisfying chunks. Its rich, creamy flavour combined with the crab is to die for.
Sesame Tofu & Sweet Sake Jelly Drink – ¥350
The cute white-coloured beverage is a healthy mix of sesame tofu paste and sweet sake. It retains the pulpy texture of the tofu and the aftertaste is super refreshing.
You can order the drink for takeout so you can take a stroll around the streets of Tsukiji.
Kadohama Sesame Tofu – Eat In: ¥300 / Takeout: From ¥240
If you’re looking to enjoy the sesame tofu on its own then you’ve got to try it with either the wasabi and soy sauce or brown sugar. You can also order this to take away too. Each box contains one piece of tofu.
The cafe is also selling exclusive merchandise as part of the collaboration. The collection includes a t-shirt, sacoche bag, and cap. Each item has a simple design making them easy to incorporate into looks.
Easy access to Kadohama’s sesame tofu―which is made using traditional cooking methods that have been passed down generations at Mount Koya―can only be enjoyed at ONAKA PECO PECO by Rurubu Kitchen. If you’re in Tokyo this summer, then take a trip to Tsukiji district to try this healthy and nutrient-packed tofu.
Model: Ririka Satsuki
Writer: Sayuri Mizuno (MMN Editorial Team)
Photographer: Haruka Yamamoto
Translator: Joshua Kitosi-Isanga
Information
ONAKA PECO PECO by Rurubu Kitchen
Address: 4-7-3 Tsukiji, Chuo Ward, Tokyo (Along Harumi-dori)
Opening Hours: 10:00-14:00 / 17:00-22:00 (Last orders at 22:00)
Closed: Sundays
Access: 10-minutes on foot from Ginza Station / 7-minutes on foot from Higashi-Ginza Station / 5-minutes on foot from Tsukiji Station
Official Website: http://onakapecopeco.com/
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Tsukiji Market, located in the Chuo ward of Tokyo, is known to be the largest fish market in the world. The freshest seafood is brought in and here, you are able to savor delicious sushiand kaisendon, or seafood rice bowls, on site.
However, there are many sushi shops and seafood bowl restaurants standing side by side on the streets and can get confusing which one to go to.
This time we would like to introduce you to shops that carry menus in foreign languages and even a shop with a manager who speaks nine languages.
The terms ”jonai” and ”jogai” written next to the name of the shop states roughly where the shop is located. The difference between jonai and jogai can be found in this MATCHA article.
Read more: What’sThe Difference Between Tsukiji Jogai And Jonai?
1. Kaisendon Oedo (Jonai)
First, we would like to introduce you to Kaisendon Oedo in the jonai area. The great part about this shop is their menu has over 150 items and you can eat seafood according to your preferences here. From tuna, salmon, scallops, crab, sea urchin, and shrimp, there are rice bowls with a variety of seafood mixed and matched.
For instance, the highly recommended Hakodate-don (*1) contains salmon from Hakodate, sea urchin, salmon roe, and tuna on rice. On the Otaru-don (*2), it has specialties from Otaru such as salmon roe, large shrimp, crab claw, squid, and scallop. As you can see, you will be able to find a rice bowl with toppings of your preference.
There are staff members that can speak English, so those that cannot speak Japanese can ask about the types of fish and how they taste in English. At Kaisendon-Oedo, you will also be able to taste the fresh and delicious tuna they auctioned at the tuna auction first thing in the morning.
*1 Hakodate: A city in Hokkaido.
*2 Otaru: A city in Hokkaido.Read also: How to See the Tuna Auctions at Tokyo’s Tsukiji Fish Market
2. Umai Sushikan (Jonai)
Next, we would like to introduce you to a sushi shop called Umai Sushikan.
Many sushi and seafood bowl shops in the jonai area tend to be small shops with approximately 10 seats, but this is a larger shop with 42 seats. This is recommended for groups, families and those who do not want to wait in a line to eat. At Umai Sushikan they have seasonal sushi set additions such as the Pacific Saury sushi in autumn so you can come back to try something new many times.
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Japanese food is not only sushi! There are a lots of wonderful traditional Japanese dishes. Let us introduce to you 6 restaurants witch offer Japanese food in Tokyo.
GYOZA BAR Comme a paris（Aoyama）
Gyoza is a representative popular food that is loved by many people. “GYOZA BAR Comme a Paris” in Aoyama is a new style Gyoza restaurant where you can enjoy gyoza with natural wine or champagne. It is also known as the restaurant that Masakazu Narukami from restaurant called, “Narukami” which received one star in the Michelin guide book, is in charge of creating the menu, so their side dishes and sauces incorporate his own uniqueness. Cilantro, gyoza (680yen tax included) and Onion gratin gyoza (920 yen tax included) are popular in addition to the standard menu items such as Vegetable gyoza (520yen tax included) and Pork gyoza (550yen tax included). Especially, Onion gratin gyoza has a great combination of the chewy texture of the gyoza skin which tastes like boiled gyoza and the rich onion gratin’s flavor.
Detailed information：http://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/42992
■Information
GYOZA BAR Comme a paris
Address：2-2-4 Aoyama Alcoop205, Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Hours：5:00PM to 11:45PM(L.O.11:30PM)
Holiday：Sunday
Tel：03-6427-6116
TEL：03-6427-6116
Tamawarai（Harajuku）
The 3 major noodle dishes in Japan are ramen, soba-noodles, and udon-noodles. What people like about these noodles is how different they are according to the area. Broadly speaking, people in the East like soba noodles, and people in West like udon-noodles. Therefore, Tokyo is in the soba culture area. If you are looking for a modern type of restaurant, there is the Michelin-starred restaurant called “Tamawarai” in Harajuku. The building is located in a residential area, and does not look like a soba noodle restaurant. Steamed soba noodles which are made of coarsely ground buckwheat has a rich flavor when you chew it. They do not serve many kinds of appetizers, but they are proud of their menu items such has miso flavored shrimp, tempura, and herring which is cooked for six days.
Detailed information：http://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/19569
■Information
Tamawarai
Address：5-23-3 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Hours：[Tuesday～Friday]11:30～15:00（L.O.14:30）18:30～21:30（L.O.21:00）
[Saturday]11:30～20:00（L.O.19:30）
[Sunday]11:30～17:00（L.O.16:30）
Holiday：Monday (If Monday is a national holiday, the next day, Tuesday will be a holiday)
TEL：03-5485-0025
Moo Moo Paradise Kabuki-cho main store (Shinjuku)
You can’t make it through the Japanese winter without eating a “nabe” (hot pot). Shabu shabu is a hot pot dish that you can enjoy no matter what the weather is like -hot or cold. “Moo Moo Paradise Kabuki-cho main store” is mostly popular among young people. The first store started in Kabuki-cho in 1993, and now there are forty branches all over the world. They slice the meat right before they serve it up. The soup stock for shabu shabu is extracted from exclusive oxtails. They offer organic ponzu and sesame dressing for the dipping sauce. They are very particular about the food they serve.
Detailed information：http://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/24978
■Information
Moo Moo Paradise Kabuki-cho main store
Address: Humax Pavillion Shinjuku Kabuki-cho Bldg. 8F, 1-20-1 Kabuki-cho Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Hours：Monday～Friday17:00～23:00(L.O.22:30)
Saturday・Sunday・Public holidays11:30～23:00(L.O.22:30)
Holiday：no holiday
TEL：03-3208-0135
>>next page
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Sushi is the probably the most famous Japanese food! Below are 5 sushi restaurants we highly recommend.
Roppongi “atelier Morimoto XEX”
“atelier Morimoto XEZ” is a combined restaurant produced by Masaharu Morimoto who works in foreign countries centering around the U.S. You can make an order until 3:00 AM and enjoy many kinds of dishes which are a mixture of Japanese style and Western style. “Edomaezushi” is the recommended dish. Why don’t you enjoy the dishes created by this top chef who is loved by people all over the world?
Detailed information：http://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/58797
■Information
atelier Morimoto XEX
Address: Roppongi Building, 7-21-19, Roppongi, Minatoku, Tokyo
Holiday: New Year’s Day
TEL：03-3479-0065
URL：http://www.xexgroup.jp/morimoto
※The counter with cast iron-pan can be used until 24:00 and the isolated room can be used by paying 20,000 yen.
Shinjuku “Sushizanmai”
“Sushizanmai” is a sushi chain restaurant. The price of one of the lunch menus “Maguroduke Donburi” is only 477 yen (tax not included)! Moreover, you can drink as much coffee as you like. The lunch menu noted previously is offered from 11:00 to 17:00 at Shinjuku Higashiguchi Store (only on weekdays.) The helping of rice can be chosen at will and the menu comes with miso soup. The menu is recommended for those of you who want to enjoy seafood at a low price!
Detailed information：http://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/34111
■Information
Sushizanmai Shinjuku Higashiguchi Store
Address: 3F Seno Building, 3rd street, 18-4, Shinjuku, Shinjukuku, Tokyo
Business hours: 24 hours, lunch time – 11:00 to 17:00
Holiday: no holiday
TEL：03-5357-7737
Shinjuku “Hokkaido Sushi Unimaru”
The branch store of “Hokkaido Unimaru” where you can enjoy sushi and dishes of sea urchin opened inside of “Odakyu Ace” at Shinjuku Station’s West Exit. The set “Uni Tabekurabe” (1,800 yen) offers three kinds of sea urchins; Murasaki Uni, Bafun Uni and Ensui Uni. Accordingly, you can compare the taste of these different sea urchins. This set menu is highly recommended. You can choose either “Shiro Shari (white rice)” using rice vinegar or “Aka Shari (red rice) using red vinegar.
Detailed information：http://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/40869
■Information
“Hokkaido Sushi Unimaru”
Address: 〒160-0023, West Exit Basement #1, Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo (Odakyu Ace North Department)
Business hours: 8:00 to 23:00
Holiday: no holiday
TEL：0362790148
>>next page
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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!”
Information
BEY SOLO EXHIBITION ‘NEW WAMERICAN’
Dates: November 1 ~ November 4, 2024
Hours: 10:00~20:00
Venue: TRUNK (HOTEL) CATSTREET
5-31 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo[Reception Party]
Date: November 1, 2024
Hours: 19:00~24:00
Admission: Free
DJs: Yuuna Yabe / 50minimals[GOODS]
・L/S TEE
・Hat
・Hand Towel
・Hanafuda Playing Cards
・Teacup Mug
・Original Palo Santo
・StickersBEY’s Instagram：@beytaro_0912
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FRUITS ZIPPER Holds First Anniversary Concert, Announce Appearance at the ‘Sayonara Nakano Sunplaza Music Festival’ in June
On May 4, the 7-member idol group FRUITS ZIPPER held the first Tokyo performance of their first-anniversary concert tour at Toyosu PIT.
Tickets for both the Tokyo and Osaka shows sold out immediately after they went on sale. To celebrate the first anniversary of the group’s debut, the lucky fans who were able to snag tickets came together at Toyosu PIT.
In the year since their debut, FRUITS ZIPPER has skyrocketed in popularity, performing live at several idol festivals and some of Japan’s largest fashion events, and successfully touring Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka. Their show at LINE CUBE SHIBUYA garnered incredible attention.
For the first anniversary concert, the stage was transformed by a special set and the member appeared in new never-before-seen costumes. They performed a total of 17 songs, and each member expressed their gratitude to their fans during the MC segments.
During the performance, it was announced that the group would perform at the Sayonara Nakano Sunplaza Music Festival on June 26. The venue, which has seen countless performances over its long history, will be demolished and replaced to commemorate its 50th anniversary. Fans are excited to see their favorite artists perform on this legendary stage, and many are curious to see how it will be transformed in the future.
FRUITS ZIPPER has also released the song Cho Medetai Song ~Konnani Shiawasede Iinokana? ~ (The Super Joyful Song ~Is It Okay to Be This Happy?~) on all major streaming services. The track was co-written by Sho Yamamoto, who wrote the group’s hit song Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro, currently with over 700 million views on TikTok, and Gento Miyano, who has written songs for numerous popular artists. The super-happy pop tune has a sound reminiscent of idol tracks from the 2000s and has been a smash hit at live shows, stirring the fans into a frenzy.
Information
<Sayonara Nakano Sunplaza Music Festival Performance Information>
Sayonara Nakano Sunplaza Music Festival
Date: June 26, 2023
Venue: Nakano Sunplaza (Tokyo)Ticket information and additional information will be posted on the official FRUITS ZIPPER Twitter page（@FRUITS_ZIPPER）as it becomes available.
<Release Information>
FRUITS ZIPPER New Single
Cho Medetai Song ~Konna ni Shiawase de Iinokana?~
Streaming Date: May 4, 2023
Streaming URL: https://kawaiilab.lnk.to/CSKSI
Available on all major music streaming and download sites1. Cho Medetai Song ~Konna ni Shiawase de Iinokana?~
2. Cho Medetai Song ~Konna ni Shiawase de Iinokana?~ -Instrumental-<FRUITS ZIPPER Tour Information>
FRUITS ZIPPER Japan Tour 2023 AUTUMN
9/3 – Zepp Namba (Osaka)
9/5 – Zepp Nagoya (Aichi)
9/8 – Zepp Fukuoka (Fukuoka)
9/10 – BLUE LIVE HIROSHIMA (Hiroshima)
9/13 – PENNY LANE24 (Hokkaido)
9/16 – KT Zepp Yokohama (Kanagawa) -
ZEROTOKYO, an entertainment mecca known for heating up Tokyo nights, is teaming up with ASOBISYSTEM to create an exciting new party! ASOBIZA, named after the origin of Kabukicho, will be held on April 28.
The lineup includes music artists as well as charismatic figures at the top of their fields in fashion, beauty, and art. Transcending musical genres and generations, this night will embody ZEROTOKYO’s concept of being a true “Entertainment Junction.”
Additional performers may be announced in the future.
Information
ASOBIZA
Date: April 28, 2023
Venue: ASOBIZA (Tokyo)
Time: 21:00
Admission: ¥3,000 (Presale) / ¥3,500 (Day-of)Buy Tickets
https://zerotokyo.zaiko.io/e/ASOBIZA-230428Event Details
https://asobisystem.com/schedule/43726/ -
The new Tokyo Diary Map series aims to introduce readers to awesome spots in Tokyo that they might want to visit! Each entry features locations recommended by a single artist or talent, and fans will get to not only discover new places to visit in Japan’s capital, but also get to learn more about the thoughts and feelings of these unique individuals.
The first participant in the Tokyo Diary Map series is Atsushi Ogata, a multi-talented TV personality and actor. Last year, he appeared as a beauty-concious man on Nippon TV’s DANCING SANMA PALACE, spurring a major buzz by revealing his cosmetic routine. He’s also a notable actor, having appeared in the papercraft theater company’s 7th performance Sekai ga Asa wo Shiroutomo (Though the World May Know Morning), telling the story of a man and a woman, a couple of friends, and a certain woman “until morning.”
-Tell us about your favorite spot in Tokyo!
“Daikanyama T SITE TSUTAYA. I feel like I can really relax there. I love being surrounded by my favorite fashion magazines, and no matter what magazine you pick up, they’re all so exciting and educational. That’s what I like about bookstores–you can pick up something you’re not usually interested in and learn something new. It’s the best.”
この投稿をInstagramで見るDaikanyama T SITE TSUTAYA
16-15 Sarugakucho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
https://store.tsite.jp/daikanyama/– How do you like to spend your time at Daikanyama T SITE TSUTAYA?
“I pick up a new book, find a seat, and take my time reading. I like people-watching and checking out people’s fashion too. Also, there’s a nice café called ivy place nearby, where I can read while having a relaxing cup of coffee.”
この投稿をInstagramで見るIvy Place
東京都渋谷区猿楽町16-15
https://www.tysons.jp/ivyplace/
-You studied fashion design in the United States. How did that experience influence you? How do you want to make use of that experience going forward?
“Learning about fashion at art school was very inspiring. It was also very interesting to see how people with different ethnic backgrounds dress and to see their individual personalities. For example, I saw high school students wearing backpacks instead of using school bags. I just loved seeing people’s unique fashion. It made me realize something that I still believe in to this day–that there’s nothing more beautiful than wearing what you like in your own way. I’d actually like to create my own clothing brand in the future, so I hope to put my high school fashion design studies to good use.”
–Which apparel stores do you frequent?
I always peek into Dover Street Ginza!
この投稿をInstagramで見るDover Street Ginza
Ginza Komatsu West Building (6-9-5 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo)
https://ginza.doverstreetmarket.com-What fashion styles are you interested in lately?
“I like a lot of different genres, but lately I’ve been into chic styling, like pairing shirts and sweaters. I dream of dressing like Thom Browne. I want to try to buy at least one piece from his collection.
-You post a lot of illustrations on your Instagram. Do you usually like to draw? When do you lke to create?
“I bought an iPad to draw because I really wanted something to do something new during COVID. For me, when I plan time to draw something, it never goes well, so I tend to just draw when inspiration suddenly strikes. I have no particular style, I just draw whatever I want!”
-What inspires you as someone so expressive? What has piqued your interest lately?
“I get inspiration from a wide range of different people. It could be people walking on the street, people on the train…lately, I’ve been meeting the most inspiring and wonderful people. Listening to their stories is what inspires me the most. Fashion inspires me, humanity inspires me, people’s auras inspire me.”
-Finally, please give a message to those who are planning on coming to Japan!
“Japan is just wonderful. It’s the best. The food, the people, the scenery, all of it is incredible. Once you visit, you’ll definitely want to come back. Please come and enjoy!” (Laugh)
Information
Ryo Ogata
In 2021, Ogata began his career as an actor and model.
His upbringing exposed him to dance, English, and art from an early age, helping to craft his current appeal.公式Instagram：https://www.instagram.com/ryokun_39
公式TikTok：https://www.tiktok.com/@ryoogata -
Hisashi Eguchi’s Illustration Exhibition “Tokyo Girlfriend” Coming to Tokyo Midtown Hibiya, New Works to be Exhibited for the First Time
From March 14 until April 23, 2023, Tokyo Midtown Hibiya will hold Hisashi Eguchi’s Tokyo Girlfriend illustration exhibition, set to show off the artist’s unique perspectives on people and cityscapes. The exhibition will feature new illustrations of the titular girlfriend standing in the streets of Hibiya drawn especially for this exhibition, as well as various other girlfriends both large and small.
GING NANG BOYZ Kimi to Boku no Dai 3ji Taisen-teki Renai Kakumei CD Jacket (2005)
A LONG VACATION – Eiichi Ohtaki 40th Tribute Illustration (2021) ©2023 Eguchi Hisashi
Hisashi Eguchi, a manga artist and illustrator, continues to convey the charm of the city and its people by vividly depicting Tokyo and the many unique happenings within. As Tokyo Midtown Hibiya celebrates its 5th anniversary along with many other nearby businesses, the Tokyo Girlfriend exhibition of illustrations by Hisashi Eguchi is being held to celebrate.
The exhibition will feature a new painting of the mysterious girlfriend standing in the streets of Hibiya, newly created for the Tokyo Midtown Hibiya exhibition. A number of original pieces using Pantone overlay, Eguchi’s favorite painting medium in the 80s and 90s, will also be on display for the first time.
During the exhibition period, guests can enjoy autograph sessions, live sketches in which Eguchi himself will draw a portrait of selected subject on the spot, and workshops where he will teach tips on how to be a better illustrator.
Don’t miss your chance to meet one of the greatest illustrators of the modern era!
©2023 Eguchi Hisashi
Information
Hisashi Eguchi’s Illustration Exhibition ‘Tokyo Girlfriend’
Running: March 14 – April 23, 2023
Venue: Tokyo Midtown Hibiya
https://www.hibiya.tokyo-midtown.com/jp/ -
Laforet Harajuku will host a pop-up shop inspired by the up-and-coming idol group FRUITS ZIPPER from February 1 until February 14! The FRUITS ZIPPER Valentine Pop-Up Shop will be found on the 5th floor MAKE THE STAGE area.
FRUITS ZIPPER debuted in April 2022 and embodies a simple concept: “From Harajuku to the World.” The group’s second single Watashino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro exploded in popularity on TikTok, pulling in over 600 million views. In February, the girls will embark on their first solo concert tour in Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka. This is the first FRUITS ZIPPER-inspired limited-time shop, and during the event, visuals of the group’s members will be displayed in the show windows found on the first floor of Laforet Harajuku.
◆About the FRUITS ZIPPER Valentine Pop-Up Shop
When entering the venue, fans will be greeted by a 5-meter-wide board where visitors can write and attach their messages to the FRUITS ZIPPER members on heart-shaped cards. Costumes that the members have worn on stage will also be on display, allowing fans to see each stitch up close.
Exclusive items featuring new photos of the members will be on sale at the pop-up shop. Fans can enjoy seeing the girls in their own personal style, and these items will only be available during the event! Starting February 4, tour merch for the group’s upcoming solo concert series will also be available for purchase.
◆Collaboration with Fruit Sandwich Specialty Store ‘Fruits Box Daikanyama’
Last year’s popular collaboration with Fruit Box Daikanyama, a well-known fruit sandwich shop, is happening again in 2023! Fans can find the Collaboration Gift Box for sale, including seven baked meringue goods each featuring one of the member’s colors. The box also comes with snapshots of the members, and for a few lucky fans, these snaps might be signed! The idol group and sandwich shop have also teamed up to create the Collaborative Lucky Grab Bag Lottery, including popular FRUITS ZIPPER goods and original items from Fruits Box Daikanyama. The lucky first-prize winner will receive a special set of all available February tour merchandise in all sizes.
◆Member Appearance Planned on Valentine’s Day
On February 14, the final day of the pop-up shop, the members of FRUITS ZIPPER will make an appearance! Guests will be able to participate in the first-ever hands-on event with the members, so keep an eye out for more details!
Stay up to date with the latest FRUITS ZIPPER news at the official Twitter page (@FRUITS_ZIPPER).
FRUITS ZIPPER Pop-Up Shop Exclusive Goods
Random Photo – Valentine pop-up ver. (21 varieties): ¥330 (Tax Included)
Random Pin – Valentine pop-up ver. (7 varieties): ¥500 (Tax Included)
Random Purikura Stickers – Valentine pop-up ver. (14 varieties): ¥600 (Tax Included)Information
FRUITS ZIPPER Valentine POP-UP SHOP
Running: February 1 – February 14, 2023
Venue: Laforet Harajuku 5F MAKE THE STAGE
*Closed on February 7 and February 8[Fruits Box Daikanyama Collaboration Goods]
Collaboration Gift Box: ¥3,500 (Tax Included)
Collaborative Lucky Grab Bag Lottery: ¥1,500 per try (Tax Included)Check out more details about the pop-up below!
https://www.laforet.ne.jp/pop_up_shop/fruitszipper_2301/Stay up to date:
FRUITS ZIPPER Official Twitter
https://twitter.com/FRUITS_ZIPPER/<Tour Information>
FRUITS ZIPPER 1st LIVE TOUR 2023 WINTERDate: February 3, 2023
Venue: ReNY limited
Time: Doors open 17:30 / Show starts 18:30
Contact: Sunday Folk Promotion (052-320-9100) *Open daily 12:00-18:00Date: February 5, 2023
Venue: Nanba Hatch
Time: Doors open 16:30 / Show starts 17:30
Contact: Kyodo Information (0570-200-888)FRUITS ZIPPER 1st LIVE TOUR 2023 WINTER 〜FRUITS DAY〜
Date: February 9, 2023
Venue: Shibuya WWW X
Time: Doors open 18:00 / Show starts 19:00
Contact: HOT STUFF PROMOTION (03-5720-9999) *Open weekdays 11:00-19:00FRUITS ZIPPER 1st LIVE TOUR 2023 WINTER 〜ZIPPER DAY〜
Date: February 10, 2023
Venue: Shibuya WWW X
Time: Doors open 17:30 / Show starts 18:30
Contact: HOT STUFF PROMOTION (03-5720-9999) *Open weekdays 11:00-19:00FRUITS ZIPPER 1st LIVE TOUR 2023 WINTER -TOUR FINAL –
Date: February 12, 2023
Venue: LINE CUBE SHIBUYA
Time: Doors open 17:00 / Show starts 18:00
Contact: Sunrise Promotion Tokyo (0570-00-3777) *Open weekdays 12:00-15:00Buy tickets for all shows here: https://l-tike.com/artist/000000000899959/
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Fans of the pop rock band Macaroni Empitsu will want to head to Tokyo from February 17 to March 6, 2023 to enjoy a newly-reworked 10th-anniversary exhibition. Guests are invited to look through various macaroni holes around the exhibition hall to catch glimpses of some curious and rare items only on display for a limited time.
After being held at several locations around Japan, the exhibition will return to Ikebukuro PARCO in Tokyo next month.
Items appearing in the Macaroni Empitsu 10th Anniversary Book -Macaroni Kuronikuru- will be on display, and a short film titled Aspirations will be screened following its premiere in Shibuya.
Graphic designer Shun Sasaki served as the art director for the exhibition.
Fans won’t want to miss out on the exhibition’s original merchandise featuring key visuals and lyrics from the band. Come get a glimpse at the history and personal lives of Macaroni Empitsu’s members while you can!
[Comment from Vocalist Hattori]
“Macaroni Empitsu’s exhibition is making a triumphant return to Tokyo! New content has been added this time around, so be sure to come fall into the macaroni hole!”
Information
Macaroni Empitsu 10th Anniversary Exhibition in Tokyo
Running: February 17 – March 6, 2023
Venue: Ikebukuro PARCO 7F / PARCO FACTORY
Hours: 11:00 – 21:00 *Admission permitted up to 30 minutes prior to closing
*Closing at 18:00 on March 6
Admission: ¥500 (Tax Included) *Reservations required. For more information, check parco.art.
*Free for preschool children
Details: https://art.parco.jp/parcomuseum/detail/?id=1147
*Event details are subject to change without notice.
*Hours of operation are subject to change.<Touring Exhibition Information>
Osaka Venue
Umeda LOFT 4F Event Space
Running: January 13 – February 5, 2023■Release
wheel of life EP
Release Date: March 8, 2023
wheel of life EP Special Site: https://macaroniempitsu-wheeloflife.com/■LIVE
TALTO Night 2023
March 3, 2023 / Zepp Haneda
Performers: SAKANAMON / Macaroni Empitsu / Yayuyo / WON
*Opening act plannedOfficial Site: http://macaroniempitsu.com/
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Atarashii Gakko! will hold solo concerts at Zepp venues in Tokyo and Osaka in April and May of 2023.
These performances will be held almost a year after the girls held their solo concert at Zepp DiverCity in Tokyo last May. This year’s events will be held at Zepp Osaka Bayside on April 30 and Zepp Shinjuku in Tokyo on May 2.
ATARASHII GAKKO! – HANAKO (Official Music Video)
ATARASHII GAKKO! – Pineapple Kryptonite (Official Music Video)
Information
Atarashii Gakko! at Tokyo & Osaka Zepp
-We’re working on some amazing new songs and we’re dying for everyone to see our newest evolution (Tentative title)-
April 30, 2023 – Zepp Osaka Bayside
May 2, 2023 – Zepp Shinjuku (Tokyo)
Fan’s Presale Tickets (Starting January 1)
https://www.fansnet.jp/leaders -
For four days only starting in February 2023, fans of Hatsune Miku will want to take an incredible night cruise around Tokyo Bay. The virtual singer will collaborate with the popular Tokyo Bay Night Cruise which travels between Yokohama and Tokyo. The event will include special tickets, exclusive bonuses for guests, collaborative goods, and onboard decorations. Collaborative goods will be available to purchase on the ship or from the Shimapochi online store.
Outline
Dates: February 19, February 26, March 5, March 12
Night Cruise Itinerary:
Osanbashi, Yokohama / Check-in 16:00-18:00
Osanbashi, Yokohama / Departure 18:10, Enjoy the night view from the ship
Takeshiba Wharf, Tokyo / Arrival 19:45
*Guests will be led by a special MC narrating the night scenery. Snacks and drinks will be available for purchase.
Special Ticket Fare:
Adults ¥2,000 / Children ¥1,500 (Includes consumption tax and fuel price adjusted for inflation)
[Includes Hatsune Miku Collaboration Sticker and Postcard (6 varieties, random)]
Special tickets featuring Hatsune Miku will only be available to those reserving their spot online. Reservations can be made two months prior to the boarding date. Space is extremely limited, so grab a spot while you can!
Those not interested in bonuses can also enjoy a night cruise during this period, with adult tickets costing ¥1,000 and children’s tickets costing ¥500. More details will be released at a later date.
Information
Hatsune Miku x Tokyo Bay Night Cruise
Dates: February 19, February 26, March 5, March 12
Details/Tickets: https://www.tokaikisen.co.jp/news/392932/
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The online sake shop KURAND is now selling TIGER & BARNABY SPARKLING, a special sparkling sake made in collaboration with the TIGER & BUNNY 2 anime series.
TIGER & BARNABY SPARKLING is a sparkling sake that will surprise customers with its delicate bubbles and light flavor. The label features an outline of the city of Sternbild, the setting of TIGER & BUNNY, and each bottle will be delivered in a decorated box. This is perfect for Christmas and New Year’s celebrations!
Those who purchase TIGER & BARNABY SPARKLING will receive a TIGER & BARNABY Champagne Stopper as a gift. The bubbliness of this sake is sure to impress, so kick back and relax with friends and family this holiday season with a few glasses of this limited-edition goodness.
Information
TIGER & BARNABY SPARKLING
Order Period: November 4 – November 17 at 16:59
*Orders will be delivered by Christmas
Second Order Period: November 17 at 17:00~
*Orders will be delivered during or after January 2023
(Bottles available for Christmas are only available in limited quantities. Those ordering bottles for a January 2023 delivery should be aware that items are only available to order while supplies last.)Price: ¥8,600 (Tax Included)
Details: https://kurand.jp/collections/tigerandbunny -
The limited-time Christmas event ‘SNOOPY Merry Colorful Christmas’ will be held at the Grandberry Park shopping mall from November 12 until December 25, 2022. The complex is directly connected to Manami-Machida Grandberry Park Station on the Den-en-toshi Line.
This year’s event is the most colorful one yet, focusing on diversity and individuality. Fans of Snoopy and friends are in for a treat, as the area around Grandberry Park will be illuminated in beautiful colors and decorated with unique Christmas decorations that will excite the whole family.
Colorful Sculpture
Colorful Illuminations
Snoopy Ice Rink
Snoopy Happiness Float 2022
During the event period, a giant 8-meter-tall Christmas tree decorated with Peanuts-inspired ornaments will be set up for guests to enjoy. A huge and very colorful sculpture measuring 6 meters across and over 2 meters tall will also welcome visitors to this Christmas wonderland. In addition, colorful lights will be scattered around the entirety of Grandberry Park, and a special Christmas menu filled with cakes and hors d’oeuvres is sure to delight.
On December 10, the Snoopy Ice Rink will open at Oasis Plaza, and the Snoopy Happiness Float 2022, a giant Snoopy that has traveled across Japan, will return for another year of fun.
Come have a fun time this holiday season with Snoopy and friends! A series of events will be held over the next year to market the Colors of Peanuts marketing campaign throughout the country, so keep an eye out for more news!
*Sample images only.
Information
Snoopy Merry Colorful Christmas
Running: November 12 – December 25, 2022
Venue: Grandberry Park
Details: https://gbp.minamimachida-grandberrypark.com/christmas2022/ -
Interview: Shakuhachi Player Yoshimi Tsujimoto Discusses Her Craft and the Upcoming Concert at Kumano-Nachi Taisha
Each year, an incredible event is held at Kumano-Nachi Taisha, a Shinto shrine and World Heritage Site located in the Kii Mountain Range of Wakayama Prefecture.
To kick off the ‘diamond celebration,’ a special concert will mark the 1,250th anniversary of the birth of Kobo Daishi, the Japanese Buddhist monk who founded the Shingon school of Buddhism. Yoshimi Tsujimoto, a shakuhachi player from Hashimoto, will perform in the concert scheduled to begin on October 22 at 13:30.
Moshi Moshi Nippon sat down with Yoshimi Tsujimoto to discuss her music and, most importantly, her interest in sharing the sound of the shakuhachi with the world.
−How did you become interested in the shakuhachi?
My father loved the shakuhachi, and because of that, I grew up surrounded by the sound of it. That’s how it all began!
−What attracts you to playing the shakuhachi?
I love the timbre of the shakuhachi.
Those who play the shakuhachi often say that a single note has the power to bring someone to enlightenment.
Curiously, individual differences in tone are more easily discernible with the shakuhachi than with other instruments. That means that a person can express themselves in more unique ways.
−You’ve performed in many different countries. Do you get different reactions to the shakuhachi in other countries when compared to Japanese audiences?
I have a vivid memory of a time I performed a classical shakuhachi piece solo. This particular type of classical music is called ‘wabi-sabi,’ and it isn’t very loud or lively.
In Japan, when I finish a performance, people usually clap. But when I performed in South America, as soon as the piece concluded, there was a standing ovation with people shouting “Bravo!” That would never happen in Japan, and it left such a lasting impression on me.
−Are there any countries that have left a lasting impression on you, or that you would like to visit in the future?
I have good memories of every country I’ve visited, but I think that Cuba left the biggest impression. I just made me think about how incredible music can be.
I’d love to visit Bulgaria, Morocco, Armenia, Uganda…it’s tough, because I want to visit every country I haven’t been to yet. (laughs)
−You’re from Hashimoto City, near Mount Koya. How did you feel when you heard that this concert would be held so close to your hometown?
What I felt was pure joy.
Personally, I’ve always loved Mount Koya, and I went there many times as a child. It’s such a pleasure to be able to perform there.
−Tell us some of your favorite memories involving Mount Koya.
I go to Mount Koya at least three or four times a year. It’s not a particular memory per se, but every time I go, I love to eat vegetarian food, explore, and buy wheat buns and sesame tofu as gifts to take home.
−Are there any local foods or places that you’d recommend?
The fruit is delicious in Wakayama, and my hometown is famous for persimmons.They are so yummy, and I just want everyone to try them!
Mount Koya and Kumano Kodo are both World Heritage sites, and they are both absolutely breathtaking. Other than those, I’d recommend Adventure World! It has adorable pandas roaming around freely and the most wonderful dolphin shows. Everyone from around the country should visit!
−Finally, do you have a message for Moshi Moshi Nippon readers?
Japan is filled with incredible places and culture. The shakuhachi, a beloved traditional Japanese instrument, is one piece of that culture.
I want audiences around the world to hear the sound of the shakuhachi and to make it more familiar. If you have a chance to hear it, I hope you will.
Be sure to follow Yoshimi Tsujimoto’s activities going forward as she shares the beauty and culture of shakuhachi with the world.
Information
Concert at World Heritage Site Kumano-Nachi Taisha (Wakayama)
Date: October 22, 2022 at 13:30
Venue: Danjo-garan Buddhist Temple
