Booking.com is one of the world’s largest accommodation booking websites that connects people from all over the world with many unique places to stay. For the first time ever, Booking.com has announced a very special stay at ‘KAWAII Japanese Room – Addicted to Tokyo.’ Designed in collaboration with no other than art director and icon of Japan’s kawaii pop culture Sebastian Masuda. The stay is available exclusively through Booking.com with only a handful of booking dates available which are: November 13-14, 14-15 and 15-16.
One significant pattern which can be seen in the room is that of a traditional jūnihitoe, which is a set of formal kimono garments worn by court-ladies in Japan. The designs and patterns have been fused with a vivid pop colour scheme and created in a modern graphics style for a new form of experimental art. The main concept of the room is “Addicted to TOKYO”. Once you step into the room, you will be immersed in a world of vivid colours and patterns where abstract wonder is fused with traditional features. A stay here is bound to be stay you will never forget. The room is located at the MIMARU TOKYO AKASAKA apartment hotel and was remodeled specifically for this purpose. Reservations will open worldwide at 7pm JST (11am in Amsterdam). Only three reservations – one for each night – will be accepted and it is first-come, first-served.
The room is filled with Japanese-style room features such as tatami flooring, sliding doors, zabuton floor cushions, and a raised tatami-floored seating area. There are two beds and a large open space in the room. Once you enter, you will be immersed in a world of patterns. Using Japanese celebratory culture as a starting point, Masuda has created a space which reflects the atmosphere of an exciting Japanese celebration. Although there are many traditional features to the room, there are also animal patterns and patterns that make the word “TOKYO”, creating a room full of impact. One of the most iconic decorations in the room is the bear which rests on the pink tatami flooring. The bear’s unique design resembles origami, reflecting the cute yet edgy culture of Tokyo fashion.
In the room you’ll find KAWAII Japanese Room-limited design yukata. These unisex yukata are designed with a range of patterns and colours that can be seen around the room. You can use them as pyjamas and can even take them back home with you.
You cannot leave the accommodation without checking out the giant mushroom display located on the MIMARU TOKYO AKASAKA roof. Those staying in any room at MIMARU TOKYO AKASAKA during the limited period as well as those staying in the KAWAII Japanese room both have access to see this glorious masterpiece
If you are not one of the lucky few who get a chance to stay at the KAWAII Japanese Room- Addicted to TOKYO, you could book another room in the hotel during the same period to witness Masuda’s iconic mushroom masterpiece. This is the perfect place to experience a full-on kawaii experience right in the centre of Tokyo. The first 100 people to visit the rooftop between 3pm and 9pm on each day between November 13 and 15 will receive an original hand towel.
Be sure to check it out.
Information
KAWAII Japanese Room- Addicted to TOKYO
¥2,200 per night (Tax Included)
Address: 7 Chome-9-6 Akasaka, Minato City, Tokyo
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The second room of the ASOBISYSTEM-produced home sharing facility MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS has finally opened. Named “ORIGAMI,” the room is available via Airbnb, and is a joint-effort between ASOBISYSTEM, which promotes Harajuku culture to the rest of the world, and Rokuyon, which manages unique accommodations in Shibuya.
MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS SAKURA
MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS is an accommodation service that offers concept rooms brimming with originality which you won’t find at any other hotel, hostel or home sharing facilities. The first room, SAKURA, opened in December last year, proving popular with travellers around the world with its cherry blossom theme.
Joining as the second room in the series is ‘ORIGAMI,’ a room based entirely on the Japanese art of paper folding which covers the entire room at every turn.
Living Room
The cosy living room is decked out with benches and stools, furnished in the style of a Japanese tea house. Dangling overhead are lights which brighten the room with their warm colour. The light shades are in fact traditional Japanese umbrellas which help bring that quaint Japanese atmosphere alongside the colourful folding fans, matcha-making tea set, and more.
Bedroom
The picturesque room is floored with tatami where you can sit and relax on a zaisu―a traditional chair with no legs used for sitting on tatami mats. The paper lanterns and sliding doors elevate an exciting air in the room. The stairs leading upstairs are made up of chests of drawers which you can use to store your luggage.
Both the upstairs and downstairs are fitted with mattresses spreading 2.6 meters wide which can accommodate up to 6 people in total. The mattresses are by Nishikawa which offer dreamy comfort and a high quality sleep. The mattresses can also be switched out for a different type depending on what kind of feel you are looking for.
Powder Room
The Powder Room is equipped with amenities including cotton swabs, cotton pads, and hairbands. Seat yourself comfortably at the wide table and get ready for your day or night out.
Shower Room
The Shower Room also has everything you need including shampoo, conditioner, and body soap. As well as a shower, there is also a Japanese-style Washlet toilet.
Everything Else & The Amenities
ORIGAMI has all of the living essentials. If you’re looking to cook while staying here, the kitchen has a microwave, refrigerator, plates, pans and more. There is even a washing machine.
Guests can also rent a kimono haori. Be sure to take lots of pictures!
4F Entrance – Staircase
The ORIGAMI room begins from the staircase leading from the third floor to the fourth floor. The door is actually made of tatami mats.
Building Entrance
Our building is very easy to spot at the ground floor entrance with the giant neon sign that reads “MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON” in Japanese as well as the MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS logo on the wall.
Rooftop
Guests are free to use the rooftop which offers a panoramic view of Harajuku.
Like SAKURA, ORIGAMI is available to book on Airbnb only. Whether you’re coming from overseas and in need of a room, are doing a staycation, or just want a place to get together with the girls, then book now with MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS.
Information
MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS -SAKURA-
Address: 2-18-7 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
Access: 8-minutes on foot from Meiji-Jingumae (Harajuku) Station via the Chiyoda and Fukutoshin lines
Occupancy: 1-6 people
Price: ¥40,000 (does not include handling and service charges) *1 room 1 night
*Accommodation prices are subject to change depending on the period. For full details please check the Airbnb website
Official Website: https://rooms.moshimoshi-nippon.jp
ORIGAMI Bookings: https://bit.ly/2Ug3nVv
SAKURA Bookings: https://bit.ly/2NwrA8x
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Since opening in Harajuku last year, MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON’s ultra-kawaii hotel MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS has been the talk of the town. We are here to announce a new BBQ plan for guests which is held on the hotel rooftop and which you can attend empty-handed.
MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS is only an 8-minute walk from Harajuku Station. You’ll know you’ve arrived when you spot our neon sign pictured above. It’s on the roof of this building you can look forward to getting your teeth into a delicious BBQ and chugging down drinks.
The rooftop design takes on a pop appearance, mixing blue with yellow. This cute design alone is enough to get you excited for what’s to come. And since there are no tall buildings around us, you get a great view of Harajuku from below.
The BBQ plan comes equipped with everything you need: a fire, plates, cups, ingredients, and alcohol. We have a great option of drinks, including beer, wine, whisky, and soft drinks. There’s also a beer server so you can enjoy your beer nice and frosty. If we don’t have a drink you’d like, you can bring your own too. There’s a FamilyMart and other shops nearby, so head there to stock up.
BBQ Set – ¥6,000 Per Person (Before Tax) *Photo is a select portion example for 5 people
For grub, our lineup includes meat, fish, egetables, fried onigiri, and sweets. There’s Japanese beef too, as well as Japanese chicken, pork, lamb, sausage, and more. We prepare the most delicious ingredients for the current season. There’s a lot of different meats to choose from, so rest assured you won’t go hungry.
All the food is seasoned for you, so you can drop it all on straight away and get straight to eating.
Make a toast with your drinks and tuck in! The wagyu beef is nice and plump once it comes off the fire. One bite of the soft meat will treat your taste buds to a luxurious sweetness and the meat’s delightful juices.
The chicken is seasoned sweet and spicy. It has a crunchy exterior and soft inside. The lamb is seasoned well too and has that distinct deep flavour lamb has.
Our fish and vegetables are all in season too. The fish pictured above is salmon cooked in foil and seared skipback tuna. The salmon is seasoned with butter and soy sauce. All of the delicious flavour of the skipback tuna is intensified while prepared on the fire, and the inside is sumptuously tender. It’s seasoned with citrus soy sauce.
This here is giant okra which I tried for the first time. Giant okra is in season right now too. It’s a lot more elastic than your regular size okra and has a juiciness when you bite into it.
I was so full already… until dessert arrived! These is a dessert sweet potato roasted on the fire.
I topped it with vanilla ice cream and tea flavoured ice cream before sprinkling on cornflakes to finish.
The mix of the hot potato and cold ice cream is a match made in heaven inside your mouth. The roasted sweet potato has a subtle sweetness which mixes perfectly with the creamy ice cream. I originally thought I was full but there’s always room for dessert.
There are parasols too in case it rains. You can even rent out tents from the hotel if you like.
If you’re looking to stay in Harajuku, come and see us at MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS and enjoy a BBQ with a rooftop view of Harajuku.
Writer: Sayuri Mizuno (MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON)
Translator: Joshua Kitosi-Isanga
Information
MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS BBQ Plan
Address: 2-18-7 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
Price: From ¥6,000 Per Person (Reservations Available)
Set Ingredients:
・Meat: Wagyu beef and other meats in season
・Fish: In season fish
・Vegetables: In season vegetables
・Other: Fried Onigiri, Satsuma Sweet Potato Dessert
・Drinks: 1 Beer Server, White Wine, Red Wine, Whisky, Shochu, Tea, Water, Orange Juice, Cola (soft drinks are served in 2ltr bottles)
Set Equipment:
・Grill, BBQ, Tongs, Plates, Cutlery, Cups
Reservation/Enquiries: info@moshimoshi-nippon.jp
*Prepared ingredients will differ from season to season
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MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS is a hotel accommodation service run by MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON located in Harajuku and bookable via Airbnb. Our hotel isn’t just popular for sleep, however: it has become a hot spot with stylish girls who get together and use it as a party space.
This is the Birthday Edition of our Top 10 list of things you can do at MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS. Enjoy a very special birthday in Harajuku you’ll never forget!
Girls’ Night In Edition: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/262308
⑤Get your hair and eyelashes done at Harajuku’s popular salon L by HOME for your special day
L by Home is a popular salon in Harajuku that’s just a 2-minute walk from MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS. The salon offers a special plan in collaboration with MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS.
If you book a room at MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS you can receive a special price at L by HOME. Celebrate your special hair by getting a cute hair arrangement and eyelash extensions. The extensions come in different colours depending on which room you book at the hotel, be it SAKURA or ORIGAMI. You will receive a message about it after booking on Airbnb.
▶︎Hair Arrangement
Price: ¥3,000 per 30 minutes
*Shampoo is available at an extra cost
▶︎Eyelashes
Price: ¥10,000 per hour
Service: The base colour is brown and you can pick an additional colour of your choice
SAKURA Colours (brown×cotton, aqua, pink, magenta)
ORIGAMI Colours (brown×burg, lite brown, purple, gold)
▶︎L by HOME
Address: 2F, 3-27-15 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
TEL: 03-5411-0366
Opening Hours: Hair Salon 11:00-21:00 (10:00-19:00 on Sundays & holidays) / Eyelash Lason 11:00-20:00 (10:00-19:00 on weekends & holidays)
URL：http://l.home-harajuku.com/
⑥Adorn your hotel room with cute decorations
Guests are free to use rooms as they please, so be sure to decorate it for the big day with cute decorations, so long as you use tape that doesn’t damage the walls or furniture. There are lots of shops in the Harajuku and Omotesando area that sell birthday goods: FLYING TIGER COPENHAGEN, ASOKO, AWESOME STORE, and DAISO to name a few.
⑦Experience a kawaii birthday like no other at MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS
Enjoy an unforgettable birthday in one of our special rooms, like SAKURA which is completely pink throughout. There are a limited number of beds in the rooms but there is no limit to how many people stay in a single room, so invite all your friends over for a huge party! And if you tell us in advance that you’re bringing a cake in, you can borrow a cake stand from us so you can make the cake even cuter. The stand is 18cm in diameter so it should hold a whole cake, but be sure to check the size of yours in advance.
There’s no doubt you’ll enjoy your birthday party even more if you spend it in our pink haven. There is a kitchen with plates, cutlery and everything you need to cook up more snacks and food for your party too.
We will continue the Top 10 list in the next article entitled Food Edition. Remember, if you’re looking to stay in Harajuku, be sure to book with MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS for a hotel stay like no other.
Models: Aiko / Ringo
Photographer: Haruka Yamamoto
Writer: Sayoko IshiiTranslator: Joshua Kitosi-Isanga
Information
MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS
Address: 2-18-7 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
Access: 8-minutes on foot from Meiji-Jingumae (Harajuku) Station via the Chiyoda and Fukutoshin lines
Official Website: https://rooms.moshimoshi-nippon.jp
ORIGAMI Bookings: https://bit.ly/2Ug3nVv
SAKURA Bookings: https://bit.ly/2NwrA8x
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[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/ -
Sebastian Masuda to open SUSHIDELIC, a new sushi restaurant in Soho, New York City. The location will open on June 28, 2023.
“King of Kawaii” Sebastian Masuda, creator of Harajuku’s “KAWAII MONSTER CAFE,” loved by celebrities around the world, has created a new restaurant concept in New York City
Sebastian Masuda is a multi-disciplinary artist whose unique sense of color transcends the boundaries of art, fashion, and entertainment. His restaurant “KAWAII MONSTER CAFE” opened in Harajuku in August 2015 and quickly became a popular spot in Tokyo, frequented by celebrities from around the world, including BLACK PINK’s Jenny, Katy Perry, and Ariana Grande.
His next project will take place in New York City, where he is currently based. The restaurant will offer a completely new perspective on sushi, the most popular Japanese food in the U.S. and an integral part of the American lifestyle.
Enjoy an Immersive Kawaii Experience
The new location is meant to be an “immersive Kawaii experience.” Once you step into the restaurant, you’ll find yourself in a psychedelic and one-of-a-kind space that will make you feel as if you’ve wandered into another world. Guest will be guided by employees clad in colorful custom-made costumes, and three rotating cats will be suspended by the ceiling, rotating to reveal a secret image. Guests sitting at the counter will enjoy a pink custom-made conveyor belt, a.k.a a sushi lane.The restaurant will offer artist Sebastian Masuda “Immersive Kawaii Experiences” that go beyond THE DINING EXPERIENCE.
Featuring a Menu Developed by Japanese Chefs and Supported by AUTEC, Inc.
Chef Hiroki Abe and Sebastian Masuda collaborated to create an unforgettable menu, fully supported by AUTEC. After moving to the United States in 2001, Abe worked as an executive chef at EN Japanese Brasserie in NYC. He now works as a private chef at corporate events and parties around the U.S. On the technical side, AUTEC, which boasts the number one share of the automatic sushi machine market in North America, is backing up the venture. The sushi is sure to be as tasty as it is kawaii!
Featuring Restaurant Music by RAM RIDER, the Music Producer Behind the Score at KMC
The in-store background music is essential when cultivating an immersive experience. Music producer RAM RIDER, who created the music for KAWAII MONSTER CAFE, has written an incredible 70-minute ambient track for SUSHIDELIC. Guests can look forward to losing themselves in the adorable ambiance.
Tons of New Yorkers Visit During Pre-Opening, SUSHIDELIC Trends on Social Media
During SUSHIDELIC’s limited pre-opening, scores of New York-based celebrities and
influencers visited the shop. The unparalleled ambiance, food presentation, and experience have quickly become a hot topic on social media!Opening in SoHo, the Trendiest Neighborhood in New York City
SUSHIDELIC is scheduled to open at 177 Lafayette St. in the heart of the SoHo area, where the latest fashions and trends are born and where many fashion brands have opened their flagship stores.
We will keep you updated with the latest information as it becomes available. Please look forward to the chemistry between “Sushi” and “Kawaii,” two of Japan’s proudest exports.
Sebastian Masuda
Information
Shop Overview
Name: SUSHIDELIC
Opening: June 28, 2023
Address: 177 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10013Website: https://www.sushidelic.netInstagram: @sushidelic.nyc -
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 September 30 until October 2, 2022, artist Sebastian Masuda will present a hands-on live performance work titled Polychromatic Skin – Minitsukeru, nugisuteru at kagoo in Kitakagaya, Osaka.
Masuda, who currently resides in New York, is returning to Japan temporarily to prevent this colorful and experimental participatory live performance, inspired by the street style of the 90s. The title of the artwork is pulled from the artist’s intention to break through and liberate people’s unconscious stereotypes that stand in the way of gender freedom. This work is the second in a series following Polychromatic Skin -Gender Tower- and Polychromatic Skin -Gender Wall- to be exhibited at Roppongi Art Night 2022.
The theme of this art piece is ‘wearing something by taking it off.’ Audience members will participate in the live performance by wearing masks, tops, and bottoms based on the idea of androgyny, or the body of a human before it is divided into male or female.
Upon entering the art space, guests will be surrounded by live music consisting of drums and violins and visuals, while being invited to act accordingly to create their own art. Each session lasts 60 minutes, and participation in the live performance must be reserved in advance. Tickets to view the works without participating in the performance will be sold at the venue on the day of the event.
The performance will take place at kagoo, a former warehouse space in Kitakagaya, an artistic area of Osaka. A free area at the entrance will feature a pop-up store filled with Sebastian Masuda’s art, along with items from 6%DOKIDOKI, a popular Harajuku apparel brand celebrating its 27th anniversary in 2022.
<Comment from Sebastian Masuda>
“In Brooklyn, New York in 2018, I wandered off to go to the restroom at a club. The male and female signs on the restroom doors had been smashed together, and the sign only said ‘non-gender.’ Bewildered by the unexpected instructions, I opened the door with the usual color and found a completely different sight than I was expecting. Shocked to realize that there were stereotypes hiding unconsciously within me, I returned to the club floor to find the space is as fun as ever. Since then, I’ve wondered if there is a way to break the stereotypes I have. I can’t stop thinking about it.
Is breaking down the walls the only shortcut?
The right answer is inside all of us.
Sometimes, to see the truth, you just need to put something on.
Cast off the self by taking it off.”Information
Polychromatic Skin -Take Off by Wearing-
Running: September 30 – October 2, 2022
Venue: kagoo (5-4-19 Kitakagaya, Suminoe-ku, Osaka)
Official Site:
https://sebastianmasuda.com/works/skin-osaka/ -
Sebastian Masuda, known as the “father of kawaii,” moved to New York City in 2022 to be more active in the Big Apple while continuing his activities in Tokyo.
His first event since moving to the city will be the COLORS FOR PEACE charity art exhibition, which will be held at the Mizuma & Kips gallery on Manhattan’s Lower East Side from July 29 until July 31. A portion of all proceeds from the sale of artwork and donations collected will be donated to the Ukrainian National Women’s League of America, a human rights organization supporting those whose lives have been impacted by war.
Masuda wanted people to think about peace, which is the theme for the COLORS FOR PEACE exhibition. The showing will feature artwork in four primary colors–blue, yellow, green, and pink.
Along with original paintings and lithographs, the exhibition will also feature a bed installation where guests can freely relax. Visitors will be able to think about the people whose peaceful daily lives are threatened by the ongoing war, and will be able to support them through art.
An opening reception for the event will be held on the evening of July 29, and reservations are open now. More information will be announced on Masuda’s social media accounts, including when the artist himself will appear.
Comment from Sebastian Masuda
“COLORS FOR PEACE is an event with a very straightforward theme, and that is for guests to think about peace. Close your eyes. Imagine it. Understand it. Understand how wonderful it is that you can sleep in your own bed at home tonight. We all know how comfortable it is to be able to sleep in our own bed, with our own sheets that have our own scent.
Through my activities over the years, I’ve come to realize that the ‘kawaii’ movement is one of the best ways to inspire peace. It helps us to understand each other, and the bright and vibrant colors make people happy, both in Japan and around the world. I hope that the COLORS FOR PEACE venue will be filled with many smiling faces and that it will transcend race, religion, age, gender, and all other borders.”
Information
COLORS FOR PEACE
Running: July 29 – July 31, 2022
Venue: Mizuma & Kips
Address: 324 Grand St, New York
Entry: Free
Hours
July 29: 12:00-18:00
July 30: 12:00-18:00
July 31: 12:00-17:00
Opening Reception:July 29, 18:00-20:00
Reservations: https://www.eventbrite.com/preview?eid=367935463877/
Official Site: https://sebastianmasuda.com/exhibition/colors-for-peace/
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Mizu to Takumi, a company associated with the Toyama West Tourism Promotion Association, has teamed up with SKYTREK to offer guests a once-in-a-lifetime chance to visit the area via private jet. Reservations for the incredible experience began on June 17, 2022.
Offering an entirely new tourism experience in Toyama Prefecture, visitors can see the area’s natural wonders from miles above the Earth. The program also aims to share local culture and more about traditional craftsmanship and cuisine.
Toyama Prefecture boasts dramatic topography, from the massive peaks of the Northern Alps and the Tateyama Mountains to the deep waters of Toyama Bay. To better allow visitors to see the sights, these private jet tours will be chartered on special courses different from standard airlines.
After the flights, guests will be welcomed to explore Takaoka’s deep history and culture. Kane no Sanzun, a restored and preserved inn, will welcome visitors, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating time.
Visitors can also book optional excursions to further explore the area, such as a Zen meditation experience at a famous temple in Takaoka, a traditional crafting workshop, and a tour and tasting of the only whiskey distillery in the Hokuriku region.
Come enjoy a trip to Toyama with a whole new perspective!
Information
Travel to Toyama by Private Jet
Available: June 17 – October 26, 2022
Travel Period: June 22 – October 31, 2022
Details: https://www.skytrek.co.jp/tours/toyama-private-jet-plan
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Airbnb boasts one of the largest travel communities in the world, filled with users offering up lodging and those eager to visit somewhere new. The Japanese subsidiary of the company has revealed the top spots added to Japanese users ‘Favorites (Wish Lists)’ from May 1 to May 17, 2022. Where will travelers in the country be headed this summer?
Golden Week is long gone and users are starting to think about where to visit during the hottest part of the year. This national ‘Wish List’ might make it easier to pick a spot, with many locations highlighting lesser-known areas!
Gujo Hachiman Villa, Limited to 1 Couple Per Day (Gifu)
This completely private rental villa was made for sauna enthusiasts. One lucky pair per day can book this suite along the Yoshida River flowing through Gujo Hachiman, known as the “City of Water and Dance.” Currently booked through the end of August, reservations for September and beyond will be available in early June. Book a stay to enjoy the gorgeous autumn foliage!
A House Surrounded by Lush Greenery in the Countryside (Tottori)
Hosted by a family of musicians and architects, this guesthouse invites guests to enjoy gorgeous Nordic-inspired interiors and the serene quiet of the countryside. For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, this is the perfect spot.
Hoshina Satomachi, Limited to 1 Couple Per Day (Nagano)
There’s nothing like spending the summer in a traditional Japanese home. Enjoy a barbeque on the terrace and relax on the massive lawn. This is the perfect spot for families with children or pets!
Coastal Cabin (Chiba)
You can’t have summer without a pool. This luxurious coastal retreat boasts a 15-meter pool, outdoor Jacuzzi, bonfire space, and a barbeque. Relax by the pool while listening to your favorite songs or soak in the outdoor bath as you watch the waves crash along the shore.
An Elegant and Peaceful Log Cabin (Nagano)
Located at 1,300 meters above sea level on the Iizuna plateau, this log cabin is situated in the midst of a dense forest. A perfect space for couples, families, or small groups of friends, guests are welcome to enjoy hiking through this gorgeous landscape in the center of Japan!
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JR Tokai Tours has released a new travel plan for fans of Laid-Back Camp Season 2, which aired from January to March 2021. The tour will take place in the Izu area, which was heavily featured in episodes 10, 11, and 12. Guests can enjoy a travel plan with single lodging and original goods starting May 23 until June 29, 2022.
Original Stickers
The slice-of-life series Laid-Back Camp is currently serialized in COMIC FUZ.
Set in Yamanashi and Shizuoka Prefectures, Laid-Back Camp is a relaxing series following a group of high school girls going camping and enjoying their daily lives. The series is based on the author Afro’s personal experiences and interviews, and since serialization in 2015, the series has attracted fans from around the world. The original comic has sold over 7 million copies. In 2018, the first anime series premiered, inspiring a spin-off Room Camp in 2020 and a second season in 2021.
Four years after it was announced in 2018, a Laid-Back Camp animated film will arrive in theaters this summer.Information
Laid-Back Camp Season 2 Model Trip Plan
Release Date: May 16, 2022
Trip Dates: May 23 – June 29, 2022 *Some dates are excluded.
Shop: https://www.jrtours.co.jp/plan/shizuoka/yurucamp/Official Site: https://www.jrtours.co.jp/
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The EMOCAL project aims to support small-town areas of Japan. As a new initiative in the project, specific soundscapes only found in certain areas of the country have been combined with music to create some unique tracks. A selection of musical artists have collaborated with the project to bring these songs to life!
EMOCAL was created by ZOWA’s original label, CatchyStuck. The project supports local regions and communities by using ASMR soundscape videos recorded in each region to convey their particular charms to all of Japan. The sounds recorded in each place are considered to be very valuable and are intended to serve two purposes: to bring tourism back after the pandemic and to provide fans of ASMR a way to experience these areas from afar.
Check out each of these unique ambient tracks created by four up-and-coming musicians! Each song is available on viviON’s ASMR platform ZOWA and on Spotify.Ube, Yamaguchi Prefecture / Ikkyuu x Hige Driver, I Love Ikkyuu
Beard Driver created this ambient track with sounds recorded inside of Ikkyuu, a ramen shop.
ZOWA: https://zowa.app/play/20019
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/1RP4RcpJwMrFzoYQbnfDYm?si=f1f1e816adb14db0
Odawara, Kanagawa Prefecture / Miyuki no Hama x Powerless, Seiren
Powerless created this track, inspired by the sounds of waves crashing at Miyuki no Hama, a seaside recreation area 20 minutes from Odawara Station.
ZOWA: https://zowa.app/play/20016
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/5DkQ9FeM7jQBacUf7Nbuxc?si=c7d771e73ddd44b6Shizuoka, Shizuoka Prefecture / Wasabi Field x baker, On the silent hill
Utogi in Shizuoka city is surrounded by incredible nature. Known as the birthplace of wasabi cultivation, baker used sounds recorded in the area to create this ambient track.
ZOWA: https://zowa.app/play/20017
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/0oIU4x7MjVKmpouRwEPaXZ?si=04dcb805cea540b7Ibusuki, Kagoshima Prefecture / Cape Tara x SeA0, Akushu
Cape Tara is a popular spot featuring an 800-meter-long sandbar at low tide. The sounds captured here were used by artist SeA0, and this track is sure to make you miss the water.
ZOWA: https://zowa.app/play/20018
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/1Utz5j0oB4GmSDOMVdUcXU?si=eafa1949b3ea44d0 -
The Banyan Tree Rooftop Bar, located at Hoshino Resort Risonare Kohamajima on Japan’s southernmost island, is holding a special stargazing event until April 20, 2022. Visitors can enjoy a cocktail as they gaze at the countless twinkling stars overhead.
Kohama Island is located within the Yaeyama Islands. With a warm climate, it’s comfortable to spend long hours outside, even at night. Kohamajima was also the first island in Japan to be protected by the IDA (International Darkness Association), meaning that no bright manmade lights can interfere with stargazing. Visitors can see 84 of 88 constellations!
Enjoy a Boundless Starry Sky
The Banyan Tree Terrace will bring guests together to feel the sea breeze and taste colorful mojitos as they enjoy the pleasant weather. Why not spend a relaxing time in a fantastic space lit with faintly glowing candles as you stargaze?
Taste Colorful Mojitos
A limited number of colorful mojitos will be available at a bar counter set up on the terrace for this event only. You can also enjoy Okinawan original mojitos with made with Okinawa lime, brown sugar instead of sugar, non-alcoholic mojitos for children, and tropical fruit mojitos with pineapple and passion fruit.
Munch on Snacks Perfect to Pair with Cocktails
Guests can also enjoy a snack set with salty nuts perfect for enjoying with alcohol!
Information
Banyan Tree Rooftop Bar
Open: March 1 – April 20, 2022
Hours: 19:00-20:00
Location: Banyan Tree TerraceOfficial Site: https://risonare.com/kohamajima/
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Celebrating the 10th anniversary of her major label debut, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu is staying active in 2022. In conjunction with the nationwide tour, the “LOCAL POWER JAPAN Project” was launched to energize Japan through the appeal of regional towns and cities, and has been attracting major attention. Kyary’s tour made it to Shimane on March 12, and the details of her next collaboration have been revealed!
Kyary will be teaming up with Nakaura Foods and their delicious local delicacy Dojou Sukui Manju. Known as the representative treat of the San’in region, the name is a reference to the mask worn during local performances of the Yasugibushi folk song. The steamed buns were developed by Nakaura Foods in 1967 and have been loved by locals ever since. In the 2000s, the company began experimenting with new flavors by teaming up with other local creators.
The company’s logo is being reimagined for the project, inspired by Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s 2013 Furisodeshon music video.
The name of the popular product has also been changed to Kyary Sukui Manju! Each box has a pop design and would make a perfect souvenir for Kyary fans.
A collaborative T-shirt is also on sale featuring the new logo and the singer’s 10th-anniversary logo. A special LINE collaboration is also underway, and 50 people who order the new Kyary-themed treats from the official Nakaura Foods online store will be entered to win a shirt!
Information
Dojou Sukui Manju (Shimane) x LOCAL POWER JAPAN Project
Sales Period: March 12 – April 8, 2022
Where to Buy:
Nakaura Foods Official Online Store
https://www.sanin-nakaura.jp/products/detail/1269
Nakaura Foods Stores in Matsue, Shimane Prefecture and Sakaiminato, Tottori Prefecture
Collaboration T-shirt
Where to Purchase: LOCAL POWER JAPAN Project Online Shop
Available until March 25 at 23:59
https://store-localpowerjapan.com/
Commemorative Kyary Sukui Manju T-shirt Gift Campaign
Application Period: April 8, 2022
How to Enter:- Add Nakaura Foods as a friend on LINE and get the campaign keyword.
- Enter the keyword when purchasing Kyary Sukui Manju from the Nakaura Foods online store.
- 50 winners will be selected by drawing to receive a special collaborative T-shirt!
Official Site：https://localpowerjapan.com
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Booking.com Japan has revealed its top four picks for the Japanese accommodations with the best outdoor baths and snow views!
Zao Kokusai Hotel (Zao Onsen, Yamagata Prefecture)
Located 900 meters above sea level and surrounded by the gorgeous natural beauty of the Zao mountains, this resort has long been renowned for its spectacular view of seasonal scenery. During winter, guests can enjoy a fully spring-fed open-air bath while gazing at the snow-capped mountains. The milky white waters of the Zao Hot Springs have high sulfur content which will improve the texture of your skin. The resort also has a bath large enough to accommodate up to seven people at a time and a private bath for families or lovers.
Midorinokaze Resort Kitayuzawa (Date, Hokkaido)
The Midorinokaze Resort Kitayuzawa is surrounded by nature and contains one of the largest open-air baths in Japan, along with 20 unique fragrant baths for guests to enjoy. In winter, the surrounding trees seem to glisten with snow, and visitors are sure to find plenty of peace and relaxation while lounging beneath the grey skies.
Akakura Kanko Hotel (Myoko, Niigata Prefecture)
This highland resort sits on a 1,000-meter peak, offering unmatched views of Niigata Prefecture. The natural hot spring flows from the inside of Mt. Myoko, with healing waters perfect for soaking in during the cold winter months. The large baths are also equipped with a sauna and deck, and those wanting to view the scenery from their room can enjoy guest accommodations with private baths as well!
Satoyama Jujo (Minamiuonuma, Niigata Prefecture)
Winning a design award for its facilities, Satoyama Jujo has a different feel when compared to most hotels and ryokan. Booking.com recommends it for travelers looking for new experiences! In the open-air bath, visitors can relax while enjoying a panoramic view of Mt. Makihata, one of Japan’s 100 most famous peaks. Guests can also enjoy the starry skies at night. This is a perfect location for couples!
Each season in Japan offers uniquely beautiful scenery. How would you like to enjoy winter in one of these luxurious baths?
