The Kyoto by the Sea Destination Management/Marketing Organization (DMO) is a general incorporated association that works over 7 cities in the northern region of Kyoto Prefecture. Aiming to increase the amount of information about Kyoto in English for foreigners, they recently opened a brand new website which was created and is managed by their International Promotions Manager Jesse Efron.
Jesse Efon is an American who moved to Japan to work as an Assistant Language Teacher in Kyoto. Jesse worked at a local elementary and middle school for four years in Kyotango. After training as a local guide and advisor, Jesse rose to Promotion Manager for the DMO. Standing by his motto of “follow your curiosity,” Jesse created the Kyoto by the Sea English website to spread news about Kyoto to foreigners.
The English version of the website contains articles and information on what to do in Kyoto and is split into five categories: Sea Nature, Sea Heritage, Sea Food, Sea Stay and Sea Yourself. Within these categories, Jesse has uploaded a series of articles which focus on a specific location or area of culture in Kyoto and provides an in-depth explanation along with photographs. From culture and nature to food, Jesse explains the wonders of his home for other foreigners to learn more.
A Statement by Jesse Efron
Hello everyone, it is nice to meet you!
I assumed the position of International Promotions Manager in April. This puts me in charge of relaying Kyoto by the Sea news to our foreign audience. Before joining Kyoto by the Sea DMO, I worked as an Assistant Language Teacher for four years. I have lived in Taiza, Tangocho for five years. It is a great pleasure to be engaged in this work. Kyoto by the Sea works all over Kyoto so I strive to do my absolute best. My motto is “follow your curiosity” and this is what my articles are all about. Please check out the Kyoto by the Sea website.
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Capsule hotel Anshin-Oyado Premiere Kyoto Shijo Karasuma introduced a new plan on September 6 which gives guests the chance to go and see sacred places across Kyoto associated with Japanese swords. October 4th is known as "Japanese Sword Day" in Japan. In Kyoto alone, the number of people visiting from distant places to see sacred sword places, as well as collect goshuin stamps from shrines and temples, is on the increase－as is the number of people staying at Anshin-Oyado Premiere Kyoto Shijo Karasuma. That's where this new guest plan comes into play.
The plan will take guests around different parts of Kyoto, so the hotel as prepared three options to cater to all guests' needs: one that offers a rental bicycle, a ticket to use the subway or bus, or the normal plan. You will receive a map which shows you the most efficient way to get around all the locations. There is also a QR code on the map which not only shows where you can park your bicycle if you go for that option, but also where to collect goshuin stamps. Moreover, to really slash home those sword memories, guests will be lent a free selfie-stick which also acts as a tripod. There is also a separate powder room for guests wanting to dress up in full sword cosplay gear too which can be used until checkout. Guests can also rent a portable power bank for their phone so they don't have to worry about their battery running out when snapping photos amongst other amenities, and have free use of the massage chairs, foot baths, open-air baths, and more to rest up after their long pilgrimage around Kyoto seeing the different swords. Information
Sacred Sword Site Plan
Running: September 6, 2019 – Late December 2019 (subject to change)
Target: Guests staying at Anshin-Oyado Premiere Kyoto Shijo Karasuma
Information (Japanese): http://ur0.work/UmQa
Anshin-Oyado Premiere Kyoto Shijo KarasumaAddress: 239-1 Shinmeicho Higashihairu Higashinotoin Ayanokojidori Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, 600-8092
TEL: 0120-083-554
Official Website (English): https://www.anshin-oyado.jp/english/kyoto/ -
Soak in the Hot Springs and Enjoy the Luxurious Local Cuisine at Hoshino Resorts in Yamaguchi Prefecture
On March 12, 2020, Hoshino Resorts will open a brand new resort around Yumoto Hot Spring (Nagato, Yamaguchi prefecture). Following plans for a new hot spring district in Nagato that were created in January 2020, Hoshino's hot spring resort brand KAI will be opening a resort in Nagato with numerous spa facilities. With the cooperation of the local government and community, this plan has been put into action. As part of the masterplan, Hoshino KAI Nagato will include a cafe called Agebono Cafe. This will be the first KAI resort to extend their cafe services to non-guests. The cafe will sell sweet dorayaki pancakes that guests can enjoy while strolling the streets of the hot spring district. KAI is a hot spring ryokan brand owned by Hoshino Resorts and can be found all over Japan. The theme of KAI resorts is traditional yet new. Although the room designs are inspired by nature and old and traditional Japanese culture, they cater to the needs of modern guests.Exterior Appearance
KAI Nagato is the 16th hot spring resort of Hoshino KAI. It is located in the north of Yamaguchi prefecture and is surrounded by grand mountains. The resort sits by the peaceful Otozure River which is the main source of hot spring water for Yumoto Hot Spring. KAI Nagato is located where Agebono bridge stretches across the river. The resort aims to provide guests with an enriching experience of Yamaguchi's traditional old tea house residences (Ochaya Yashiki) as well as the opportunity to indulge in the regions finest traditional culture, food and experiences. From the lobby to the guest rooms, the resort is full of Yamaguchi's samurai culture.KAI Guest Room
The designs for the guest rooms were inspired by Yamaguchi's samurai. Each room is fit for a Feudal Lord. The beds are located on flooring which is slightly higher than the rest of the room. The surrounding wooden pillars create a luxurious private atmosphere.
Patterned Wall Decoration
The wall behind the bed is decorated with Tokujihori washi paper which is a type of Japanese paper unique to Yamaguchi prefecture and has a history dating back to the Muromachi period over 800 years ago. This special paper has even been acknowledged as an Intangible Cultural Asset to Japan. The beautiful dainty paper has been dyed a variety of bright and elegant colours to create this beautiful masterpiece.Hagi Ware *This is currently still in production so the appearance may vary.
The room even has a Tokonoma, which is a small alcove where artistic pieces are displayed. Old Hagi ware, which was traditionally used for tea-making, is displayed here.Luxury Banquet for One
Enjoy a luxurious banquet for one made with locally sourced seasonal ingredients in a semi-private dining space. Each meal is served on a dainty dish. As Yamaguchi Prefecture is the second largest squid producer in the country, KAI Nagato serves the region's highly-praised Yamaguchi squid as an appetizer and as sashimi. The sweet, soft and chunky squid will leave your mouth watering for more. The dinner set also includes a range of pickled vegetables and a luxurious plate of seasonal sushi and sashimi. All dishes are served in special Hagi ware. KAI Nagato was created to fulfil the goal of creating a relaxing hot spring district where visitors can stroll for a relaxing break. KAI has taken one more step towards achieving this goal by creating the Agebono Cafe, which is the first ever KAI cafe to extend its services to non-guests .The cafe serves Japanese dorayaki pancakes with sweet jam fillings made using Yamaguchi's original citrus fruits such as Yamaguchi's original Nagato Yuzukichi and the Natsu Mikan. The Natsu Mikan was introduced to Japan from overseas and is now cultivated in Yamaguchi prefecture. Enjoy the refreshing tangy citrus flavour of Yamaguchi prefecture as it perfectly balances with the sweet jam flavour. This is best enjoyed with a cafe latte. Hoshino Resorts KAI Nagato is packed with the cultural wonders and flavours of the region. Take a moment to relax in the Yumoto Hot Spring and explore the culture of Japan. Information
Hoshino Resorts KAI Nagato
Address: 2229-1 Fukagawayumoto, Nagato, Yamaguchi 759-4103
Open: March 12, 2020
Reservations Open: November 12, 2019
Telephone Number: 0570-073-022 (Hoshino Resorts Reservations Centre)
Price: From ¥22,000 per night (Based on the price per person for one room with two guests. Includes service fee, dinner and breakfast. Tax not included.)
Access: 60-minute drive from JR Shinyamaguchi Station, 90-minute drive from Yamaguchi Ube Airport.
URL：https://kai-ryokan.jp/en/nagato/
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Here at MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON, we have never failed to provide you with the essentials: updates on the best bubble teas around Kyoto. However, today we have a special sweet treat for you. After consulting expert Instagrammer kyoto cafe life tiara, we have compiled a list of Kyoto's top purin that will fill you with satisfaction and as well as nostalgia. Purin is a type of Japanese custard pudding loved by the Japanese for generations. When it comes to searching for the best desserts in the Kansai region, kyoto cafe life tiara leaves no stone unturned . Cafe Yamamoto, Higashiyama
Pudding (Set): ¥750
The bitter and fragrant caramel sauce of this purin is to die for. This purin has a rich eggy flavour and is stiffer than a traditional purin. Enjoy your purin served in a silver plate which will fill you with the nostalgia of the retro Showa Era.▼Cafe Yamamoto (やまもと喫茶)Address：307―2 Ishibashicho, KyotoOpening Hours: 7:00-17:00 (L.O.16:30)Closed: TuesdaysOfficial Instagram: ＠yamamoto_kissaKissa Zou, ImadegawaPudding: ¥450The purin here is rich in flavour and garnished with a scrumptious biscuit. It is too cute to eat.▼Kissa Zou (喫茶ゾウ)Address: 440-3 Santeicho, Kamigyo Ward, KyotoOpening Hours: 9:00-18:00 (Last Orders: 17:00)No regular holidaysOfficial Instagram: @kissa_zouBAR Tantei, MototanakaPudding a la Mode ¥700This fancy pudding is topped with seasonal fruit, ice cream or even cake. The retro atmosphere of the bar is the perfect place to enjoy a fancy moment to yourself.▼BAR Tantei (喫茶探偵)Address: 26 Tanaka Satonouchicho, Sakyo Ward, KyotoOpening Hours: 12:00-17:00, 19:00-02:00Closed: Sundays, additional irregular holidays.Official Instagram: https://kyoto.bartantei.comTakagi Coffee Takashiji Honten, Shijo StreetHomemade Purin Set: ¥ 800Takagi Coffee is known for the unique shape of their purin, which looks very similar to a slice of cake. This purin is slightly stiffer than your usual purin and has a lovely accent of rum which adults love. This is best enjoyed with a cup of coffee.▼Takagi Coffee Takashiji Honten, Shijo Street (高木珈琲店 高辻本店)Address: 175 Honeyacho, Shimogyo Ward, KyotoOpening Hours: 7:00-19:00 (Closes at 18:00 on Sundays)Closed: January 1-3Official Instagram: http://takagi-coffee.jugem.jp/Salon de thé François, Gion ShijoPurin a la Mode: ¥850This purin is bigger than you expect it to be. Although the flavour is simple, it will send you on a trip to old traditional Kyoto. This purin is stiffer than usual and sweet with a gentle touch of bitter caramel sauce. This is topped with ice cream and garnished with tangy yet sweet strawberries. This purin is on a slightly more luxurious level which makes it perfect for adults.▼Salon de thé François (フランソワ喫茶室)Address: 184 Nishikiyamachi-dori-Shijo-kudaru; Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto.Opening Hours: 11:00-22:30（L.O 22:0）No regular holidaysOfficial Instagram: http://www.francois1934.comNOTTA CAFE, SaiinCustard Purin: ¥500This deceiving purin may appear to look like a cake and avoid jiggling like a true purin would, however, once you take a bite, the rich custard flavour will flood your mouth. The flavour is perfect for those of you who cannot handle very sweet flavours and are looking for something more refined. To fully enjoy your experience, order this purin with the oiri sweets cream soda.▼NOTTA CAFE (ノッタカフェ)Address: 37 Saiinkitayakakecho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto Opening Hours:Tuesdays-Sundays: 11:30-20:00Wednesdays: 11:30-21:00 Closed: MondaysOfficial Website: http://nottacafe.comSo, how about it? For those of you who are in desperate need of a sweet fix in the Kansai region, Kyoto café life tiara's Instagram will swoop in to rescue you. Research for article contents and photos provided by: ＠happy_pinkrose_tiara
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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.
Information
Nagomi Holiday Gift Event
Date: December 14, 2024, 12:00~
Venue: CASETiFY STUDiO Shibuya PARCO (Tokyo)
*Times are subject to change.[Content]
・Autographs by Nagomi on product displays in the store
・Holiday Gift Selection advice from Nagomi
・Polaroid photo shoot with select fans
・Special gift giving from Nagomi[How to Participate]
Make any purchase at participating stores between November 25 and December 13
*Participating Stores: Shibuya PARCO, Ikebukuro PARCO, Shinjuku Marui[Participation Details]
From November 25 to December 13, keep any receipts from purchases made at Shibuya PARCO, Ikebukuro PARCO, or Shinjuku Marui and bring them to CASETiFY STUDIO. On December 14, CASETiFY STUDiO will distribute 30 numbered tickets at the store on a first-come, first-served basis starting at 11:00 AM when the store opens. Numbered tickets will be distributed until they are gone.Holiday Gift Guide Official Site
https://www.casetify.com/collection/holiday-gift-guide -
[Channel47] Inbound Travel Product Allowing Visitors to Experience the “Real Japanese Countryside” in Iida, Nagano Prefecture Now on Sale
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.Information
■Tour Name
DEEP EXPERIENCE THE INAKA -TENRYUKYO・IIDA CITY-■Tour Summary
This is a special tour that allows inbound visitors to experience the traditional culture and beautiful landscapes of Minami-Shinshu. By participating, guests can leave the hustle and bustle of the big city behind, appreciating the true essence of Japan by spending time in the quiet region of Tenryukyo, Iida City, Nagano Prefecture.◼︎Main Points
・A Three-day, two-night all-inclusive tour departing from JR Toyohashi Station with time spent in the Tenryukyo area in Iida City, Nagano Prefecture
・An exclusive train car on the JR Iida Line
・Special snacks and drinks supervised by Yukimoto, a famous restaurant in Iida that was awarded Gold on Tabelog.
・Various experiences in nature in each of the four seasons (such as rafting on the Tenryu River, scenic sky walk, agriculture and livestock farming experiences, etc.)
・Experience traditional Japanese culture (mochi pounding, Fire Festival, Wayuraku, Ningyo Joururi, etc.)
・Stay in a farmhouse homestay to experience real life in the Japanese countryside◼︎Dates
① January 10-12, 2025
② January 12-14, 2025
③ January 17-19, 2025
④ January 19-21, 2025
⑤ January 24-26, 2025◼︎Optional Menu
Dinner at ‘Yukimoto’
*Courses and drinks are not included in the tour price.◼︎Details/Contact
Minami Shinshu Tourism Bureau Sales Page: https://www.mstb.jp/gentei/deepexperience_the_inaka/
Official Tour Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inaka_tenryukyo/ -
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.Information
＜SUSHIDELIC NY＞
住所：177 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10013
定休日：月曜日Website：https://www.sushidelic.net
Instagram：@sushidelic.nyc
予約：https://resy.com/cities/new-york-ny/venues/sushidelic?seats＜KAWAII MONSTER CAFE＞
Instagram：@kawaiimonstercafe
TikTok：@kawaiimonstercafe
Online Shop：https://kawaiimonstercafe.shop/＜The Stranger＞
Instagram：@thestrangernyc
Website：https://www.thestrangernyc.com/
運営会社：https://otba.com/ -
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.
Information
I am I – Toua (1st EP)
Release Date: November 27, 2024Limited First Edition
12-inch Paper Jacket
CD+B2-size Poster / Lyrics card
AMT-10001 / ¥2,750 (Tax Included)Standard Edition
Paper Jacket
CD+8-page Booklet
AMT-10002 / ¥1,650 (Tax Included)Pre-order here
https://lnk.to/EP_IamI_CD[Tracklist]
1. I am I
2. MY Routine
3. MEmories
4. Young – MINE remix-[Purchase Bonuses by Store]
■Amazon.co.jp
Limited First Edition / Standard Edition: Mega Jacket (JKT Photo)■Rakuten Books
Limited First Edition / Standard Edition: Acrylic Keychain (JKT Photo)■Seven Net Shopping
Limited First Edition / Standard Edition: Pin (JKT Photo)<Release Event Information>
Date: November 26, 2024
Venue: Tower Records Shibuya Store B1F CUTUP STUDIODate: November 27, 2024
Venue: Asunal Kanayama Event SpaceDate: December 1, 2024
Venue: Abeno Q’s MALL 3F Sky Court*More details will be announced at a later date. Please do not contact the venues.
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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.
Information
Growing Pains – MANON (Digital Single)
Release Date: November 15, 2024
Streaming URL: https://orcd.co/manon_growing_pains
Available on all major music download and streaming sites. -
KAWAII LAB.’s New Program ‘KAWAII LAB.’s Road to Being Super KAWAII’ Begins, KAWAII LAB. to Hold 3rd Anniversary Performance
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.”Information
<Program Information>
Title: KAWAII LAB’s Road to Being Super KAWAII (KAWAII LAB. no Chou Kawaii he no Michi)
Where to Watch: TV Asahi’s Official YouTube channel ‘Douga, Hajimetemimashita’
Airing: Tuesdays at 18:00
URL: https://youtu.be/t3GSdL9njZY<Performance Information>
KAWAII LAB. 3rd Anniversary Special LIVE ‘Watashitachino Ichiban Kawaiitokoro’
Date: February 22, 2025
Time: Doors open 13:00 / Show starts 15:00
Venue: K Arena Yokohama (Kanagawa Prefecture)Tickets: Favorite Member Ticket *with bonus limited edition goods: ￥15,000 (Tax Included) General Ticket: ￥8,000 (Tax Included)
Details: https://kawaiilab.asobisystem.com/
<Collaboration Cafe Information>
Collaboration Period: November 14 – December 26, 2024
Venue: TV Asahi Headquarters 1st Floor Atrium – EX Garden Cafe (Tokyo)
Details: https://kawaiilab.asobisystem.com/news/detail/35577
Reservations: https://lin.ee/YSaxp7V