On November 18 and November 25, national free broadcasting service BS12 will air ‘NEXT TRIP: A Luxury Resort Trip to Ise and Shima.’ The host for the excursion will be popular model Shibata Saki (nicknamed Shibasaki), who is a well-known figure to women of all ages.

NEXT TRIP is a new travel program that helps travelers figure out where to go next. The theme of the series is “Where should I go once the world settles down?” From visiting popular city spots to faraway resorts in Japan and abroad, the show aims to introduce people to locations they haven’t discovered yet, showcasing what the world has to offer. Those watching should keep a lookout for spectacular scenery, gourmet local food, outdoor activities, and so much more. 

 

[Part 1] November 18, 2021, 9:00 – ‘NEXT TRIP: A Journey to Ise’

In this episode, Saki Shibata travels to Ise, Mie Prefecture, first visiting Ise Shrine to pay her respects. The shrine is one of the holiest and important sites in the Shinto faith and was said to be established in the year 4 BCE. After visiting the Inner Shrine on a bright and sunny morning, Shibata travels to the ancient Okage Yokocho street to find some souvenirs and enjoy a local cafe to enjoy Ise’s famous rice cakes and traditional Japanese sweets. For lunch, she visits a very retro western-style building. At the nearby Ise Ninja Kingdom, guests can wear ninja costumes, and Shibata does just that! As the day comes to an end, Shibata opts to stay at a luxurious ryokan, Ikyuu, and highlights the incredible dinner and other services the lodging offers.

 

Air Date: November 18, 2021 / 9:00-10:00

 

[Part 2] November 25, 2021, 9:00 – ‘NEXT TRIP: A Luxury Resort Trip to Ise and Shima’ 

The second part of the trip begins with cycling. Visiting the famous Married Couple Rocks on the coast of Futami, Shibata sets out for Shima. After enjoying the breathtaking view from the ‘Mailbox in the Sky’ on the Ise-Shima Skyline, she stays at a resort overlooking the Shima coast. Guests are welcome to take a leisurely stroll around the grounds and enjoy a luxury cruise or dinner. The sunset is something Saki Shibata will surely never forget.

 

Air Date: November 25, 2021 / 9:00-10:00

 

Where do you want to travel in Japan once the world settles down?

ASOBISYSTEM has teamed up with cosmetics company Bijinaru to launch a new fragrance brand ainou. Offering a variety of products, the first collection was produced by models Yuri Suganuma, Saki Shibata, Rinko Murata, and Goto Yutaro. The four were asked to come up with fragrances inspired by their own personal thoughts and feelings. Products will be on sale starting October 20 at PLAZA/MINiPLA locations nationwide and at the ainou online store. 

 

ainou = i know

 

Scents can evoke memories. 

If we could share our precious memories through scents…

 

The Scent of Memories

ainou

 

 

 

1st Collection Producers

Yuri Suganuma

‘A clear, sweet, and fresh aroma,’ produced by Yuri Suganuma

ainou 0 Fragrance Mist Eau de Toilette

 

With the nickname ‘Yuripa,’ Suganuma has gained a massive following among young women. She has become a social media influencer and often shares her beauty knowledge online, having obtained certification in cosmetics and skincare. Suganuma has acted as an MC for numerous events, has produced apparel and accessories in the past, and has collaborated with popular brands from Zoff to CA4LA. She recently started her own brand, LOBJECT. 

 

Saki Shibata

‘The happy scent of flowers and grass after the rain,’ produced by Saki Shibata

ainou 8 Fragrance Mist Eau de Toilette

 

Nicknamed ‘Shibasaki,’ she is a model from Aichi Prefecture who is loved by women of all ages. During her time as a fashion model, she has appeared on the cover of popular women’s magazine mer for 12 consecutive months and has also appeared in numerous commercials and other mediums. She has also begun selling her clothing and vintage items overseas as part of a broadcast she produces and has collaborated with many other designers and brands. Shibata has traveled all over Japan to help revitalize small towns and has served as a PR ambassador for several outlying islands. 

 

Rinko Murata

‘The unforgettably sweet scent of a bouquet,’ produced by Rinko Murata

ainou 23 Fragrance Mist Eau de Toilette

 

Murata has appeared across a wide range of mediums, including in fashion magazines, on the radio, in web and TV advertising, and strutting the catwalk in fashion shows. She writes a popular online column titled ‘Curry Tokidoki Rinko Murata,’ where she catalogs her hobby of visiting curry shops, as well as ‘Pub Patrol,’ a series in Tabelog Magazine. Murata is active in product collaborations and has produced a number of popular products using her heightened sense of style. She also is the director of her own brand, idem. 

 

Goto Yutaro

‘A scent that causes you to turn your head,’ produced by Goto Yutaro

ainou 66 Fragrance Mist Eau de Toilette

 

 

Goto Yutaro was born on June 3, 1998, in Hiroshima prefecture. In 2016, he began his career as a vintage clothing store clerk before becoming a model known to the industry as being ‘too cute.’ He began his acting career in 2017 and has appeared in the popular drama series Trouble of the Blue Vampire and Cherry Magic! Thirty Years of Virginity Can Make You a Wizard?! With a number of films currently in the pipeline, the actor is expected to continue his upward trajectory as a unique talent on screen. The star is currently appearing in the NHK drama series Komi Can’t Communicate, as well as in theaters in both It’s a Summer Film and Kaguya-Sama: Love is War Final. 

 

Since their creation in 1988, the 996-model sneaker has been one of New Balance’s most popular models. This month, the 996 will be reborn as the New Balance Standard, with the same comfortable feel and some minor changes to the logo.

In the new campaign, Natsume Mito, Saki Shibata, Fumiko Aoyagi, and Shiho Takechi will be modeling the new shoes, each in a sleek new color. The photos are meant to depict women living their daily lives with positivity, as they did in 1988 and as they do today.

 

The 996 model sneakers are the third model in the 99X series. Released in 1988 as a running shoe meant to be used on paved surfaces, its comfort and design has made it a best-seller among both men and women.

 

Will you be grabbing a pair of these updated kicks?

In this edition of The Café That You Want to Visit to See Someone, I visited Kayaba Coffee, a coffee shop in Yanaka, Tokyo, which is a perfect example of the old and traditional shitamachi neighbourhoods.

Kayaba Coffee is just a 10-minute walk from both Nezu Station and Nippori Station.

This is a place I’ve visited in my private time out of work and I’m always excited to go. Kayaba Coffee was established in 1938, and actually closed in 2006. But due to public demand, the cafe reopened just two years later in 2008. It’s a popular coffee shop loved by people of all generations.

 

Time to head on in.

 

The first floor houses the counter and table seats, while the seating on the second floor is traditional zashiki style on tatami flooring. Although it’s a cafe, you I feel so relaxed in there that it’s like I’m visiting my grandma’s house. The sun shines through the big windows, making you all warm and want to take a nap.

I ordered their super popular egg sandwich! The menu was changed in May this year, and a new and improved version of their egg sandwich was put on there. It’s made using sourdough bread from VANER, a local bakery in Uenosakuragi not far from the cafe.

Breakfast Menu – Egg Sandwich | ¥1,000

The chewy, sour bread is the perfect combination with the fluffy eggs.

Lemon Squash | ¥600

The lemon squash has a cinnamon aftertaste. Everything on the menu is made with love and perfection; before I realised it, I was hooked on going there.

Strawberry Shaved Ice | ¥800

This was my first shaved ice of the year! I went with the classic strawberry flavour. The syrup is super juicy and nearly collapsed the fluffy shaved ice the moment I put it on. It has a syrupy texture and the strawberry juice has a sweet and sour kick that’s just simply delightful♡

 

And you can make it even sweeter by pouring over your desired amount of condensed milk. It was really tasty.

Kayaba Coffee is the same as it was back in the day, and continues to be loved dearly. I think even people who visit it for the first time will feel a sense of nostalgia. If you have a place you can go to relax on bad days or when you’re feeling down, it’s sure to give you the strength to work hard again. This cafe is a wonderful place that’s close to people’s hearts.

 

I want to visit there again already.

 

Writer/Model: Ema Tanioku
Photographer: Haruka Yamamoto
Design: Yuko Takayama (ASOBISYSTEM)

Translator: Joshua Kitosi-Isanga

In this edition of The Café That You Want to Visit to See Someone, I visited Sepia in Shibamata, a Showa-retro style cafe which I’ve always wanted to visit.

The cafe is just a 2-minute stroll from Shibamata Station which appears in the Japanese film Otoko wa Tsurai yo. The walk along the road that leads to Sepia, which is nearby the Buddhist temple Shibamata Taishakuten, is a pleasant one. Tokyo is a city consistently perceived as one that is cutting-edge in every aspect, but what I felt from each and every building surrounding Shibamata Station was a kind of warmth that you feel when something has history to it.

 

It’s been seven years since I came to Tokyo. Visiting Shibamata made me me realised how many places there are which I still don’t know about. It invigorated me. As my mind wandered with these pondering thoughts, I finally spotted the sign outside the cafe, and it sure is a cute one!

The moment I stepped inside, I stood, my mouth agape, and looked at my surroundings. It’s the first time I’ve entered such a bright, shining cafe. It was littered with characters I’ve never seen before, manga, magazines, and more.

 

When you hear the word kira kira (“glitter,” “sparkle”), the first thing that comes to mind for a lot of people is probably Harajuku and the Harajuku style, but Sepia’s version of kira kira is a nostalgic one betwixt 1965 and 1975 during the Showa Period. The cafe is incredibly delicate in every spot and corner, like I’m looking inside some grand treasure chest.

The owner of Sepia is Kiyoko Hasezawa. The cafe gets its name from the manga Milky Sepia Monogatari by Ako Mutsu. Ms. Hasezawa said that she wanted to bring to life the world of the manga she loved. The cafe is full of her dreams and is enjoyed by everyone, both children and adults alike.

The cafe menu is even inspired by the food that appears in the Milky Sepia Monogatari manga. The hard pudding I had, which combined caramel sauce and cream, was an absolute delight.

Homemade Showa Pudding & Cream Soda Set: ¥1,200

If we’re talking cafes, then you can’t go wrong with cream soda. The cream soda served at Sepia comes in seven different flavours and colours: melon, Blue Hawaii, strawberry, lemon, peach, grape, and orange. I was spoilt for choice on which to go for, but in the end I went with the pink-coloured strawberry. It had a sweet flavour and was really delicious.

Strawberry Cream Soda: ¥750

I devoured the hotcakes too. The pastry was so fluffy and tasty – I could have eaten a hundred of them. The second one I ate with honey.

Hotcakes: ¥600

At the back of the cafe, they also have the “Candy Candy Museum.” There’s a personal collection of items from Candy H Milky, a female fashion enthusiastic who used to be a customer at Sepia. There’s a photo spot for snapping a photo in the cafe too.

 

It’s a great time getting to go and look at the displays after eating. I recommend going to see the collection yourself with your own eyes. Entry to the museum is ¥300.

There’s a tearoom up on the second floor which has a nostalgic vibe to it. I felt warm and relaxed, like I’d been transported to my grandma’s house.

Humans can’t travel back in time, but if we look after mementos properly, we can go back there in our minds and memories. Sepia, a place that continues to be cherished and loved, is everybody’s treasure trove.

 

My oh my, I really want to go back there again.

 

Writer/Model：Ema Tanioku
Photographer：Haruka Yamamoto
Design：Yuko Takayama（ASOBISYSTEM）

In this edition of The Café That You Want to Visit to See Someone, I visited J-COOK in Gaiemmae, a place I visited one time while off work which ended up in me wanting to absolutely feature it in the series!

It’s just a 5-minute stroll from Gaiemmae Station.

The cafe enjoys lots of sunlight, which is brightened further by all the plants scattered through the shop. The cafes I have visited to date are often a little darker with only a little light seeping through the windows to create a certain atmosphere, and they are wonderful, but this was the first I have ever visited with so might light and so many plants. The air felt clear, adding to the level of comfort in the cafe, perhaps because there are so many plants adorning the interior.

The cafe also has a space with a slightly more darker light and atmosphere on the left side. I haven’t sat in that area yet, so I think I’ll try it out on my next visit.

When I come to J-COOK, my eyes always wander over to the marzipan creations (¥450).

These ones here were actually all individually handmade by the owner’s husband from the early morning.

If you look really closely, you’ll notice all the dog designs are different. When ordering, get to pick out which one you want, so try finding your perfect pup!

I had mine together with an iced coffee (¥450). The sweet marzipan is a delicious combination with the bitterness of the coffee.

I also got some potted cream (¥450). It’s kind of like a Japanese custard pudding with just a moderate amount of sweetness.

I had mine with a bit of brandy which had fragrant vanilla notes. They’ve had this brandy for 33 years since the store first opened.

The cream was sensational, and the gentle notes linger afterwards.

They have a lot of different homemade soups too which are perfect for the coming cold weather. I got the New Orleans-style gumbo soup. It’s spicy with clam and okra in it.

Relaxing jazz music plays in the cafe while you sit and enjoy your drink and meal.

J-COOK is a wonderful little cafe run by a husband and wife. When I first came, the wife came and talked to me. She’s super friendly, and although it was our first meeting, she made me feel really comfortable and welcome. She must be full of happiness, which in turn naturally gives people who visit the strength to be positive and work hard.

 

I reckon their smiles have saved a lot of people.

 

I can’t wait to visit again!

 

Writer/Model: Ema Tanioku

Photographer: Haruka Yamamoto

Design: Yuko Abe (ASOBISYSTEM)

Translator: Joshua Kitosi-Isanga

Glasses brand Zoff teamed up with famous models Saki Shibata, Yuri Suganuma and Rinko Murata to produce a branded glasses series that is perfect to wear “All Day, Every Day”. The girls designed these glasses to fit into and enhance your everyday life experiences. The Zoff CLASSIC Girls Collection -All Day, Every Day- series will be released across Japan from October 11, 2019. 

The main theme of this series is All Day, Every Day. From this, the three sub themes of morning, midday and evening were created and each model was put in charge of the designs for one of these themes. Shibata was in charge of ‘morning’ designs, Suganuma was in charge of ‘midday’ designs and Murata was in charge of ‘evening’ designs. Each model carefully thought of how the user would wear the glasses during their sub theme time in order to fully enhance their daily experiences. Each model also created a unique personal design out of metal for the temple tips of the glasses they designed. 

 

Before being released in stores, the glasses will be available to preorder from Zoff’s official online store from 11am (JST) on September 20. From the same day from 9pm, there will be a one-hour-long live broadcast where the models will showcase their creations.  A limited number of the glasses will be available to preorder during this live broadcast. 

 

There is also a lottery taking place with the chance to take part in the Zoff CLASSIC Girls Collection Special Event which consists of two parts: A tea session where you can listen to the girls’ stories on how they produced the glasses and even get some pointers on how to coordinate your look, and a special photography session with the three models. 

 

Designs by Saki Shibata

ZH191011　Available in 3 colours　¥7,000

These compact and circular-shaped rims are the perfect way to highlight your classic look or even a tomboy look. However you decide to wear these glasses, you will always look good with minimum effort. 

ZO192024 　Available in 3 colours　¥9,000

The vintage style and matte coloured metal frame make these glasses perfect for both men and women. The carefully chosen size makes these extra special. 

Shibata’s statement on the personalised symbol:

“I want the wearer to feel good the moment they put on these glasses. I designed these glasses to give the wearer confidence to hold their head high and say: ‘Today is going to be a wonderful day and I am going to enjoy every moment of it.'”

 

Designs by Yuri Suganuma

ZP192020　Available in 3 colours　¥7,000

These frames are rectangular with soft round edges to make your face look smaller and your eyes look bigger. 

ZO191012　Available in 3 colours　¥9,000

A perfect mix between foxy and geeky, the roundness of these rims is subtle, adding a feminine touch to your look. Although you may get the impression that these glasses only go well with a few styles, they actually coordinate well with a surprisingly large range of styles.

Suganuma’s statement on the personalised symbol:

“My design is a heart rate to represent how the wearer will feel when they put these glasses on. I hope my glasses make your heart jump with excitement.” 

 

Designs by Rinko Murata 

ZP192019　Available in three colours　¥7,000

The metal frame is so beautiful that it is like wearing an accessory. The subtle colours of the frame make it perfect for casual clothing. If you are looking for something for everyday use, these are perfect. Big rims are trending right now. 

ZN191011　Available in three colours　¥9,000

There is a wonderful contrast between the different materials used and the circular-shaped lenses give a classic look. Switch the lenses for blue light blocking lenses to reduce the amount of blue light exposure from your computer and phone. 

Murata’s statement on the personal symbol:

“I etched my initials ‘rm’ into the design. I hope the wearer feels the power to transform into a brand new person whenever they put on these glasses. I hope my glasses provide a sense of comfort and confidence to the wearer.”

 

Whether you are a fan of the models or this is your first time hearing about them, you just have to check out their stylish designs which are suitable for men and women of all ages.

Popular Japanese model Saki Shibata―known to her fans by the nickname Shibasaki―has teamed up with Sanrio’s adorable golden retriever Pompompurin to release a collection of collaborative items on the character merchandise online store hopely.

“Pompompurin x Saki Shibata” Handbag – ¥2,500 (Before Tax)

“Pompompurin x Saki Shibata” Compact Mirror – ¥1,000 (Before Tax)

“Pompompurin x Saki Shibata” Pocketable Tote Bag – ¥3,000 (Before Tax)

Shibasaki is a huge fan of Pompompurin, and her cute collection includes a handbag, compact mirror and tote bag.

All of these items can be enjoyed by girls and women alike. Which do you have your eyes set on?♡

It’s been a while since our last date with Yutaro. He’s been very busy with film shoots. He had some spare time today so we paid a visit to Nihonbashi for our next date. “ECO EDO Nihonbashi: Enjoy Cool Edo With All Five Senses” is an event held every year in the Nihonbashi area which takes the Edo period cultural idea of “coolness”―an in, to enjoy being cool during the summer－and puts a modern spin on it. There are many exciting things to look forward to, including the art aquarium which proves massively popular every year.

 

We gave ourselves more time to arrive at the meeting place to be in the safe side, but it seems Yutaro-kun was already there waiting for us!

Nihonbashi Information Center | IPPIN CAFÉ “Sparkling Herb Tea” – ¥518 (Tax Included)

“Here, you must be boiling.” Yutaro-kun kindly offers a cup of IPPIN CAFE’s limited-edition sparkling herb tea. It’s a delicious mix of fizzy soda and lemon, a perfect refreshment for the summer. Since he ordered takeout the drink came with a goldfish straw. Goldfish are a staple sight during Japanese summer festivals so it’s very fitting for the occasion! 

 

With our drinks in hand, it’s time to head to Nihonbashi for our Edo summer date!

Wind-Chime Forest Path

Lining the path between Fukutoku Shrine and Fukutoku Garden is the Wind-Chime Forest Path where around 200 Edo-style wind chimes dangled. This year, during the evenings, the path is illuminated with beautiful lighting. 

When the breeze rolls past the wind chimes ring one by one－a cool and refreshing sound.

“I hear each one of these Edo wind chimes are individually handmade by craftsmen.”

When you hear the sound of the wind chimes it makes you feel cool like a gentle breeze of the wind.

 

After strolling along the Wind-Chime Forest Path we make our way towards this year’s ECO EDO Art Aquarium event.

The moment we step instead Yutaro is already dazzled by all the goldfish: “Wow! I knew about this place from what I’d seen online, but this my first time here! This art aquarium really is something!”

 

The full title of the event is “ECO EDO Nihonbashi ART AQUARIUM 2019 ~Edo, Coolness of Kingyo~ & Night Aquarium.”  Goldfish were a huge part of the common culture in Nihonbashi during the Edo period. This event recreates that and brings that “coolness” aspect while combining it with contemporary art by having people observe the fish in lots of different artistic environments.

Super Oiran

“This is the biggest fish tank, apparently it has 3,000 fish swimming inside!”

“Seeing the light reflect on the water from the illuminations lets you see the fish in a different light, doesn’t it?”

Looks like Yutaro-kun is having a lot of fun taking photos.

He’s equally interested in just about every fish tank!

These other fish tanks have a different aesthetic to them. Their Japanese-style designs make for great photos.

Kaleidorium 3D

“This one’s beautiful, it’s like a kaleidoscope.”

It really does look like one. When you take a peek instead you can glimpse all kinds of colourful fish gently swimming around.

Ceiling Kingyo

“There’re goldfish swimming on the ceiling too. So cool! This aquarium is incredible. It brings together the great culture of Edo and contemporary art.”

 

The Art Aquarium bustles every single year with visitors, but this year will mark its last run. It’s being held at Nihonbashi Mitsui Hall, so if you have the chance to go then please do.

We of course checked out some local Nihonbashi treats too! We stopped by morozoff for some cheesecake after the aquarium.

morozoff Kamadashi Cheesecake (Goldfish) – ¥270 Each (Tax Included)

These cute cheesecakes with their goldfish designs are available for a limited time only. They’re filled with sweet red bean paste. They perfect with iced tea.

“Got some! Let’s eat them while we head back.”

Goldfish Lantern Walkway

Our first date in Nihonbashi was so much fun. While on the date Yutaro-kun spoke about the new live-action film he’s in, Kaguya-sama: Love Is War.

 

“It’s a romance film with mind games to try and make the other person confess their love. I play the character Tsubasa. His number one highlight scene is the kabedon scene. That was my first day shooting, so I was super nervous, but I got along well with the other actors, and the atmosphere on set was harmonious, so I was able to relax for the shoots. Tsubasa is a genuine guy who will believe things that have been said to him in earnest. You’ve definitely gotta check out all his scenes throughout the film!”

 

“A lot of the cast are the same age as me, so we were all energetic together in the waiting room. There’s a scene at the end where all the cast get together. It took 3 days to shoot so we ended up getting along really well.”

 

“This film has made me realise that love comes in many shapes, and that mind games happen in a variety of ways between guys and girls. There’s cute scenes that express that small bit of pride that teenagers have, the embarassment they feel, when they get butterflies, scenes that will warm your heart. The film has various elements to it so I thoroughly enjoyed watching it myself. I hope that couples in love in their teens and twenties watch it, and I also hope that married couples watch it and crack up laughing too.”

 

“In the film it’s summer break, and they go and see fireworks and stuff. It’s definitely one to watch durnig the summer. You’re gonna come watch it too, right? Shall we go?”

 

An offer we cannot refuse! We’ll definitely go and see it with you, Yutaro-kun! 

 

Model: Yutaro

Writer: Yuki Yokoo

Photographer: Kayo Sekiguchi

In this edition of The Café That You Want to Visit to See Someone, I visited Hatoya which is located in Asakusa Shin-Nakamise Arcade.

 

The streets of Tokyo’s historical district of Asakusa are packed to end with cafés. You can be spoiled for choice, but Hatoya stood out to me in particular as it’s an especially old café. Business there began back in 1927 but the actual building was built back in the Taisho period, meaning its history spans more than 90 years ago!

 

The outside appearance of the shop is smart and chic so it’s very easy to spot. I couldn’t tell by looking from the outside, but the inside is full of old decorations and odds and ends which make you feel the history of the café.

One reason why I wanted to visit this place so much is because I was drawn to their logo. It’s really retro-kawaii so I just couldn’t resist!

You should take some photos too if you visit.

It was time to head inside. It’s really comfy and cozy in there; the atmosphere was nice and relaxed.

Framed on the wall is a map of the Asakusa area during the Taisho era. Hatoya became famous back then because people could buy coffee for a mere 5 sen (a single sen is one-hundredth of a yen).

 

When business first began at Hatoya, because the café was opposite the stage door of a theatre, all of the famous actors and actresses would pop in. Some include famous Japanese comedian Roppa Furukawa and film actor Kiyoshi Atsumi who played Tora-san in the film series Otoko wa Tsurai yo.

I ordered the café’s popular hotcakes which cost ¥600. They have been making these same hotcakes since before the war.

They were nice and fluffy and had a deliciously gorgeous brown colour. The flavour was out of this world when the butter melted from the heat of the hotcakes and mixed together with the syrup.

 

The portion might look like a lot but they are fluffy and have a light flavour so can be finished with no problem.

And is the café’s signature milkshake (¥500).

 

It’s so refreshing that you can knock it back all in one go. It has a simple flavour but it tasted so good!

I also ordered the ¥600 cream soda, my favourite beverage.

I’ve been to many cafés, and have covered many in this series, but this is the first I have dined at with such a deep history. I found myself enthralled by the stories of the owner who has continued to treasure the café and maintained it all the same since it opened. I feel like I have learned about a world I never knew about. The next time I go to Hatoya with a friend I’ll be sure to let them in on its history. I encourage you to visit too!

 

Writer/Model: Ema Tanioku
Photographer: Haruka Yamamoto
Design: Yuko Abe (ASOBISYSTEM)

Tokyo DisneySea fans have been waiting in excited anticipation for the opening of the park’s new attraction Soaring: Fantastic Flight on July 23. But did you know that an all-new show also started on the same day?

 

I visited Tokyo DisneySea together with models Saki Shibata and Kanako to see this new show. It’s called Song of Mirage and features Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy as the cast.

The show takes place at the Hanger Stage in Lost River Delta. Mickey and the rest of the cast are led to the mysterious city of  Rio Dorado by a cane that Donald found.

From the very start of the show the characters are sucked into this magical place by the mysterious cane. During this time Donald ends up getting himself in trouble. Mickey also takes part in a dance battle where he shows off his cool moves which leaves Minnie positively in awe. Each character has their own performance which guests can look forward to seeing.

The most overwhelming part of the show however is the voice of the diva who appears during the set. She sings beautifully yet powerfully and it gave me goosebumps.

The singing and dancing throughout, as well as the realistic projection mapping were all spectacular. We were completely drawn into the story and the vibrant and dynamic performances that tied it together.

The performers singing and dancing in their golden costumes too were a sight to behold.

Saki’s reactions were really charming as her face changed every single second while she laughed, clapped and really got into the show. Kanako, who loves Disney, was extremely pleased to see her favourite characters on stage too.

 

There is both reserved and free seating at the show. Reserved seating must be booked in advance but is allocated through a lottery system where people are chosen randomly. The schedule for bookings can be found on the official website.

The Disney cast wear adventurer costumes during the performance, and you can buy plush toys of them wearing them too!

 

If you’re visiting Tokyo DisneySea then be sure to catch the show during your breaks between attractions and parades.

 

©Disney

Tokyo DisneySea will open their new attraction Soaring: Fantastic Flight on July 23. This ride is an immensely popular attraction at theme parks around the world. DisneySea has created a new adaptation of this ride, offering a brand new and original experience to visitors.

 

Model Saki Shibata from MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON Editorial Department headed to DisneySea with model Kanako for an exclusive opportunity to experience this attraction before it opens to the rest of the public!

Climb up the stairs next to the Mediterranean Harbor and the attraction will lie right before your eyes. 

Before you enter the building, you will notice that there are lots of photo spots outside. 

You will also spot Camellia Falco; a keen flyer who became the first woman to be accepted in the Society of Explorers and Adventurers in 1851.

The Museum of Fantastic Flight located in the Mediterranean Harbor is celebrating Camellia Falco’s innovation in the field of aviation by holding a special commemorative exhibition dedicated to her and her research. 

The final room of the museum is a gallery filled with Camellia’s outstanding achievements.

 

Finally, it was time to climb aboard the invention of Camellia and her colleagues; an aircraft called the Dream Flyer.

The Dream Flyer was a magnificent trip. We soared through the sky, through the nature and around famous places of the world.

We were propelled from one place to another, experiencing a range of new atmospheres and surroundings in so many ways. At each location, we felt the wind and temperature of each country on our skin and could even smell a mix of intriguing smells unique to each location. 

 

The final destination we arrived at was our most favourite… 

 

This DisneySea original attraction is overflowing with imagination. It was like flying through an imaginary world. You absolutely must check it out. 

Fantastic Flight Churros (Pineapple): ￥400

Fantastic Flight Drink (Lychee Bubble Tea): ￥450

To celebrate the opening of the new attraction, new Fantastic Flight-themed merchandise and foods have been released. Zambini Brothers’ Ristorante is even selling pineapple flavoured churros and bubble tea. Just looking at the blue sky colour of these delicious treats will leave you feeling refreshed.

Postcard: ￥200 

Origami Notebook: ￥400

Socks (22 ー 25cm/ 25 ー 27cm): ￥700

Please check out the full goods range!

It has been quite a while since DisneySea has opened a new attraction, so the park is booming with excitement in anticipation for its grand opening to the public! Climb aboard the Soaring: Fantastic Flight ride and embark on a worldwide adventure! 

 

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