Winter Illuminations in Tokyo 2017: Take your date to Shibuya, Omotesando or Meguro to see the romantic lights
26.November.2017 | SPOT
Let’s take a look at some of the popular illumination events happening in Tokyo this year – in Shibuya, Omotesando and Meguro.
Shibuya – “Blue Grotto”
The “Blue Grotto” (Ao no Dokotsu) illuminations will stretch from Shibuya Koen-dori all the way to Yoyogi Park Keyaki-Namaki. Running from November 22nd to December 31st, the Blue Grotto display will adopt a multitude of different changing lights for the very first time from this year onward. The romantic illuminations will feature lights changing at random, lights flickering and blinking, and lights that turn sequentially starting from the back of Keyaki-michi. The twinkling lights will shine onto a reflection mat laid on floor to recreate the famous “Blue Grotto” sea cave located in Italy.
And in collaboration with Yoyogi Park, “Ao no Dokotsu Blue Parks” will open for a limited period of time where you can enjoy an array of drinks including coffee and hot wine for the cold night, as well as a special “Ao no Dokotsu” pasta bolognaise.
■Information
“Ao no Dokotsu Shibuya”
Location: Runs approx. 800m from Shibuya Koen-dori to Yoyogi Park Keyaki-Namaki
Access:
2-minutes by foot from Shibuya Station (via JR, Tokyo Metro, Keio Inokashira Line, Tōkyū Tōyoko Line)
Also accessible from Harajuku Station via JR, Meiji-Jingumae Staion and Yoyogi Park Station via Tokyo Metro, Yoyogi-Hachiman Station via Odakyu Line
Illumination Time: 17:00-22:00 *subject to change
Running: November 22, 2017 to December 31, 2017
Approximately 600,000 lights to be used.
Website: http://shibuya-aonodokutsu.jp *more info to be released soon
Ao no Dokotsu Blue Parks
Running: November 22, 2017 to December 31, 2017
Open: Mon-Thurs – 5pm-8pm / Fri-Sun – 5pm-9pm
*Opening hours are subject to change
Location: Yoyogi Park Keyaki-Namaki, 2-Chome Jinnan, Shibuya, Tokyo
Omotesando – “Epson presents Omotesando Illumination 2017”
This year’s Omotesando Illumination will run from November 30th to December 25th. Champagne gold lamps will be lit across 150 zelkova trees from Jingu Bashi crossing to Omotesando crossing. It’s been 7 years since the whole 1.1km of Omotesando was illuminated, and it will be even bigger this year – last year saw 500,000 lights radiate the streets but this year will see a dazzling 900,000. There will also be an Epson pop-up shop selling Epson brand watches for the duration of the event.
■Information
“Epson presents Omotesando Illumination 2017”
Location: Runs from Jingu Bashi crossing to Omotesando crossing
Getting There: Accessible from Omotesando Station via Tokyo Metro / Harajuku Station via JR / Meiji Jingumae Station via Tokyo Metro
Illumination Time: Sunset to 10pm *subject to change
Running: November 30, 2017 to December 25, 2017
*Trees will be lit up until January 8, 2018
Approximately 900,000 LED lights to be used.
Website: http://omotesando.or.jp/illumi/ *more info to be released soon
Contact: Omotesando Illumination Office – 03-3406-0988
Epson Brand Watch Pop-Up Shop
Open: 11:00-20:00
Running: December 1, 2017 to January 8, 2018
*Shop will close at 17:00 on December 31st
*Shop will be closed from January 1st-January 3rd
Location: Q’s spot OMOHARA (6-30-3 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo)
Products: TRUME, ORIENT STAR, ORIENT, WristableGPS, Smart Canvas
*Customers who purchase from the shop will receive a novelty gift (first-come, first-served)
Nakameguro – “Nakameguro Jewel Dome 2017”
“Nakameguro Jewel Dome 2017” will run along Meguro River. This will be the second time the event has been held, continuing from last year, and will fall between December 15th to December 24th. This year’s event will see an upgrade from a shimmering 200,000 lights to a spellbinding 500,000 which will light up approximately 100 cherry blossom trees that line the Meguro River. 2 different coloured illuminations will grace the surroundings of the river – a warm orange gold and a snowy white. You will be invited to a fantastical world inside the bright jeweled dome where white snow will dance.
■Information
“Nakameguro Jewel Dome 2017”
Running: December 15, 2017 to December 24, 2017
Illumination Time: 16:00-21:00 (subject to change)
Location: Runs approx. 1km from Nakameguro Station and along Meguro River (Hourai Bridge-Asahi Bridge)
Approximately 500,000 lights to be used.
Contact: 03-5778-3335 (10am-7pm on weekdays, closed weekends and national holidays)
Official Homepage: http://jewel-dome.com/
So, which of these events will you be taking your date to? Whether it’s with that special someone, friends or family, you’re sure to have a bright night. Be sure to use this list as reference if you’re in Tokyo!
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Report: The Successful Second Tabekko Doubutsu Cafe Stand in Omotesando
The second Tabekko Doubutsu Cafe Stand event opened in Omotesando on November 1, 2022. Paying homage to the classic snack first released in 1978, the cafe features a number of tasty snacks inspired by the thin animal-shaped cookies popular around the world.
This second event will run through January 9, 2023. Reservations are required, and many dates were completely sold out prior to the event’s start date, particularly on weekends. We decided to visit, anxious to see what the fuss is all about.
We were first shocked to see the popular animals enjoying oden! Original goods featuring the characters enjoying the quintessential Japanese winter dish are only available at the cafe. From acrylic keychains to figures, visitors can snag some adorable merchandise to commemorate their trip to the exclusive event. Why not snag some items that would be useful on a daily basis, like a notebook or an apron?
For food, visitors can snag a special Oden Set and Chinese Dumplings, both perfect for the winter. The oden features popular ingredients like egg, daikon, fish cake, and mochikinchaku, each branded with the popular animal characters. Drinks include soy milk, green tea milk, and milk tea.
In addition to the exclusive Lion Cake which is limited to 25 servings a day, guests can find chocolate bananas and other sweets on the menu, including a Sweets Set limited to those reserving special seats at the venue. For every ¥1,000 spent on food and drink items, customers will receive one Tabekko Doubutsu trading card!
The exhibition space is a must-see for fans of this legendary snack, filled with rare works including an adorable and very colorful print of every animal holding a bowl of oden. Of course, a photo spot has been set up for visitors to take some prime shots for social media!
Don’t miss the animal meet and greet, which is making its triumphant return from the last event! Visitors can interact with different animals on different days, so check the official Twitter page (@tabekko_cafe) for the schedule and more information! The number of visitors per day is limited, so make a reservation as early as you can.
Come enjoy these heartwarming treats while you have the opportunity!
Information
Tabekko Doubutsu Cafe Stand Omotesando
Running: November 1, 2022 – January 9, 2023 *Reservation required
Closed: December 28, 2022 – January 3, 2023
Hours: 11:00 – 19:00
Address: SPAGHETTI Cultural Space 1F
5-3-13 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Closest Station: Omotesando
Reservations: https://t.livepocket.jp/p/tabekko_omotesando
Official Twitter: @tabekko_cafe https://twitter.com/tabekko_cafe
*Please see the official Twitter page for the latest information! -
Popular Illustrator and Character Designer Mika Pikazo Holds Solo Exhibition in Shibuya
Mika Pikazo is an illustrator and character designer. The artist has designed characters for many popular titles including Fire Emblem Engage, the latest in Nintendo’s Fire Emblem series, as well as book covers and CD jackets.
Starting December 10, the artist will hold his second solo exhibition in three years at the Hz event space in Shibuya.
According to a press release, the exhibition is being held to show a number of creations Pikazo has made recently, and aims to show off new animation and past illustrations to merge his past and future selves. The creator hopes to challenge himself more going forward.
The first main visual, REVENGE, can be seen on the exhibition’s official website. A total of three visuals have been newly drawn for the event and will be released sequentially. In addition, a number of collaborative works with other creators will be on display, so art fans won’t want to miss out.
Limited-edition merchandise featuring new illustrations will be on sale at the venue, and autograph sessions are planned to be held. For more details, check the official Twitter page!
Be sure to come to see Mika Pikazo’s colorful pieces in person!
Information
Mika Pikazo Exhibition – REVENGE POP
Running: December 10 – December 29, 2022
Hours: 10:00-20:00
Venue: Hz, 1F (4-3 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)
Admission: Free
Official Website: https://revenge-pop.mikapikazo.info/
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13th BT21 Cafe to Open in Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Osaka, and Sapporo
The 13th iteration of the BT21 Cafe will open at six venues in five cities around Japan. Fans in Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Osaka, and Sapporo will want to visit this exclusive event titled ~MAGICAL TIME~. The first cafe opens in Shibuya on November 3. In celebration of BT21’s 5th anniversary, this special cafe is filled with joy and excitement and aims to give fans the best possible experience.
Cafe Menu
Magical Tea Time Set
Food Plate
Food Plate (7 varieties)
Dessert Plate
Dessert Plate (7 varieties)
Drinks
Magical Milk Tea
Black Tea
Iced Coffee / Hot Coffee
Original Goods
Acrylic Keychain (7 varieties, Random)
Acrylic Clip (7 varieties, Random)
Satin Sticker (7 varieties)
Clear Folder (2 varieties)
Handkerchief (7 varieties)
Tote Bag
Mug
Masking Tape / Balloon on a Stick
Dolomite Coaster (2 varieties) / Mirror (2 varieties)
[Online Store Exclusive] Acrylic Keychain (7 varieties, Random)
The cafe’s new menu includes afternoon tea, perfect for warming the body and soul during the cold winter months. The colorful food items and desserts are sure to be a hit on social media, and fans will enjoy the Magical Milk Tea and other dishes inspired by the popular BT21 characters.
In addition to new merchandise and bonuses featuring newly-drawn art, a photo spot will welcome guests to the cafe and invite them to celebrate this five-year milestone.
Why not take a break from everyday life to enjoy a magical time with these cute characters?©BT21
Information
BT21 Cafe #13 ~MAGICAL TIME~
Venue/Dates
■Shibuya, Tokyo:BOX cafe&space SHIBUYA109
Running: November 3 – December 10, 2022
Address: SHIBUYA109 B2F (2-29-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)
■Oshiage, Tokyo:BOX cafe&space Tokyo Solamachi
Running: January 13 – February 19, 2023
Address: Tokyo Skytree Town, Solamachi 1F (1-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida-ku, Tokyo)
■Yokohama, Kanagawa:Collabo_Index Lumine Yokohama
Running: January 13 – February 5, 2023
Address: Lumine Yokohama 6F (2-16-1 Takashima, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa)
■Nagoya, Aichi:BOX cafe&space Nagoya LACHIC #1
Running: December 2, 2022 – February 5, 2023
Address: LACHIC B1F (3-6-1 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya, Aichi)
■Shinsaibashi, Osaka:
Shinsaibashi contact
Running: November 11 – December 18, 2022
Address: 1-6-24 Kitahorie, Nishi-ku, Osaka
■Sapporo, Hokkaido:
Cafe Interlude, Coach & Four Shinakawa
Running: November 3 – December 29, 2022
Address: 18-chome 3-jo, Kita-ku, Sapporo
Reservations: https://box-cafe.jp/
Online Shop
Open: November 3, 11:00 – December 4, 23:59
https://box-cafe.jp/online_store/ -
Izu Kogen Grand Illumination to Offer New Experiences for 8th Season
14.October.2022 | SPOT
From November 11, 2022 until August 2023, Izu Granpal Park in Shizuoka Prefecture will host the 8th Izu Kogen Grand Illumination event!
The Izu Kogen Grand Illumination was ranked #1 in the Walker+National Illumination Ranking for six consecutive years and is beloved by visitors of all ages. This isn’t just a collection of pretty lights–the Grand Illumination also includes a number of hands-on experiences for everyone to enjoy.
In 2021, the event won first place in the Ninth Illumination Awards for the second year in a row. Known as Japan’s first ‘hands-on illumination experience,’ the park has continued to evolve year after year, adding more attractions and finding its unique style. These attractions include a zip line through the lights, Dinosaur Go-Karts, and more.
This year, the Flower Lantern Area and Sweets Lantern Area have been completely redesigned and upgraded to be even more three-dimensional and colorful. Come enjoy this incredible world of lights and have some fun with the whole family!
Information
Izu Kogen Grand Illumination ~8th Season~ (Hands-on)
Venue: Izu Granpal Park
Running: November 11, 2022 – August 2023
Official Site: https://granillumi.com
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ANNA’S by Landtmann in Shibuya Scramble Square Now Offering Halloween Sweets
11.October.2022 | FOOD
ANNA’S by Landtmann, a cafe located inside +Q Beauty on the 6th floor of Shibuya Scramble Square, has begun selling two Halloween cakes! These spooky sweets will be available until October 31, 2022.
Halloween Mont Blanc
Halloween Poison Apple
Guests will be able to snag the Halloween Mont Blanc and Halloween Poison Apple cakes, available for ¥580 each including tax. The Mont Blanc is filled with pumpkin custard and Chantilly cream. The Poison Apple is a sweet and sour cake featuring a blend of chocolate mousse covered in red glaze and applesauce with apple pulp.
Which of these two adorable cakes would you like to enjoy this autumn?
Information
ANNA’S by Landtmann Halloween Cakes
Available: October 4 – October 31, 2022
Official Site: https://www.giraud.co.jp/annas/
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Midtown Christmas 2022 to Bring Gorgeous Lights and Sounds to Tokyo
07.October.2022 | SPOT
From November 17 until December 25, Tokyo Midtown will hold the popular Midtown Christmas event for 2022!
Adults and children are sure to love this massive Christmas event. Each year, a massive Christmas tree appears in Tokyo Midtown, but this year’s festivities will also throw some more unique pieces of art into the mix.
This year, visitors will see golden lights on the city’s trees, as well as a pop-up Christmas tree inspired by party poppers. Lights and music will join together to make guests feel as though they’ve walked into an outdoor theater, and the popular ice skating rink will once again be open for everyone to enjoy. Why not enjoy the Christmas season in Tokyo’s shimmering midtown?
Bubbles Fill the Air for a Limited Time at the Christmas Story Lights
A Massive Dome Filled with 300 Lights Invites Visitors to Celebrate the Season
Hands-on Experiences at the Party Popper Tree
Information
Midtown Winter Lights
Running: November 17 – December 25, 2022
Venue: Midtown Garden, Plaza 1F
Light Hours: 17:00-23:00
*Some event times and details are subject to change.
Admission: Free
Sponsored by Netflix -
Keyakizaka Lights, a Tokyo Winter Tradition, to be Held Again in 2022
02.October.2022 | SPOT
From November 11 until December 25, 2022, Roppongi Hills Christmas will cover Tokyo in glittering lights once again. The Keyakizaka Lights, one of Tokyo’s most popular winter attractions, will also take place in 2022, with the 400-meter-long Keyakizaka street covered in over 800,000 blue and white LED lights.
For the first time in three years, the Mohri Garden will be covered in lights as well. The annual Christmas market will invite guests to experience an authentic German Christmas, and Christmas cakes and gourmet food unique to Roppongi Hills will be for sale.
The Roppongi Hills Christmas event utilizes LED lights and has done so since the first event was held in 2003. Clean power will be used again this year, and the lights will be switched on from 5 PM until 11 PM each night.
Information
Roppongi Hills Keyakizaka Lights
Running: November 10 – December 25, 2022 *Daily from 5:00 – 11:00 PM
*Lights may begin at a different time on November 10 only.
Location: Roppongi Keyakizaka Street
Official Site: https://www.roppongihills.com
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NAKED Night Walk Art Project to Open at Famed Zuiganji Temple in Matsushima
Japanese creative company NAKED will hold a Night Walk event at Zuiganji Temple in Matsushima, located near one of the top three most scenic spots in Japan. The event will run from October 29 until November 23, 2022.
The NAKED Night Walk was created to revitalize hot spring resorts and other tourist spots during the pandemic. This special event will bring the illuminated experience to Zuiganji Temple, one of the Tohoku Region’s most famous Zen temples. Guests will be invited to carry beautiful lanterns around the grounds, maintaining social distancing while enjoying the cool evening weather. These lanterns will cast one of three unique designs onto the ground below–a starry sky, a camellia flower, or a lotus.
Guests can also enjoy NAKED’s Flower Fortune Telling, pulling unique paper flowers from a massive wall, with each holding a personalized fortune. These flowers can then be tied to a nearby tree to further spread NAKED’s art. You can also take home your flower as a souvenir!
The event will only run for a limited time. For more information including admission fees and hours, see the official website!
Information
NAKED Night Walk – Matsushima, Zuiganji Temple (National Treasure)
Address: Zuiganji Temple (Chonai-91 Matsushima, Miyagi District, Miyagi Prefecture)
Running: October 29 – November 23, 2022
Hours: Weekdays 17:00-20:00 / Fridays, Weekends, Holidays 17:00-21:00
Official Site: https://zuiganji.or.jp/
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Home Cooking Themed Yowamushi Pedal LIMIT BREAK Collaboration Cafe to Open in Shibuya
12.September.2022 | ANIME&GAME / FOOD / SPOT
Fans of Yowamushi Pedal won’t want to miss this special collaboration! Chugai Grace Cafe, located on the seventh floor of Shibuya MODI, will be running the Yowamushi Pedal LIMIT BREAK cafe from September 22 until October 17, 2022.
Collaboration Menu
Sakamichi Onoda and Sangaku Manami’s Udon & Onigiri Plate
Yasutomo Arikita and Kuroda Yukinari’s Hamburger & Salad PlateHayato Shinkai’s Chocolate & Banana Mini Parfait
Sohoku High School Mango Whipped Cream & Calpis Drink
Hakone Academy Mint Whipped Cream & Calpis Drink
Goods
Pin (Random Holographic included, 9 varieties)
Acrylic Figure Stand (9 varieties)
Pin, Mini Character Ver. (Random Holographic included, 16 varieties)
Acrylic Stand (16 varieties)
Table Plate (9 varieties)
Shoulder Bag
Menu Order Bonus / Online Preorder Bonus
Coaster (1st Half): September 22 – October 4, 2022
Coaster (2nd Half): October 5 – October 17, 2022
The collaboration cafe focuses on dishes you may find at home, such as udon, onigiri, and even a chocolate banana mini parfait as a dessert. New original goods with exclusive illustrations will also be available for purchase!
©渡辺航(週刊少年チャンピオン)/弱虫ペダル05製作委員会
Information
Yowamushi Pedal LIMIT BREAK x Chugai Grace Cafe
Running: September 22 – October 17, 2022
Venue: Shibuya MODI 7F, Chugai Grace Cafe
Preorders Start: September 6~Details: https://chugai-grace-cafe.jp/collaboration/yowapeda5/
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Kansai’s Largest Illumination Event to Start Third Phase on October 8
10.September.2022 | SPOT
The third phase of the popular illumination event at the English Garden Rosa & Berry Tawada will be held from October 8, 2022 until February 12, 2023! One of the largest light-up events in the Kansai region, this year’s theme is ‘Evolutionary Lights!’
Let Time Pass in The Golden Forest
Visitors will be welcomed into a glorious forest of golden lights as they arrive in the main area.
The clock tower rises in the center, and the spectacular production begins at the start of nightfall when the tower itself begins to glow and 100 trees are enveloped in golden light.
The White and Silver Garden of the Fairies
The area has undergone a major transformation, from the warm European-inspired colors of last year’s event to a mysterious silvery-white color scheme. Visitors can also enjoy the popular light-up experience Miraculous Blue Roses and the Seven-Colored Prayer Tree.
※Details: Lights and effects are triggered in response to the sound of bells rung by visitors and special pedals stepped on as they explore the event.
Shaun the Sheep Area
A special Christmas display inspired by the new Shaun the Sheep movie, releasing in December 2022, will be on display.
*Images of the special display will be available in mid-September.
SHAUN THE SHEEP AND SHAUN’S IMAGE ARE ™ AARDMAN ANIMATIONS LTD. 2022
Galactic Express Milky Way
The Milky Way is said to be a magnificent shade of blue. The Milky Way Galaxy Railroad, which requires a separate fee, runs through the area, inviting guests to explore a sea of stars. Why not take a trip through this glittering world of lights while taking some incredible photos?
Why not visit this incredible sea of lights this winter?
Information
Rosa & Berry Illumination 2022-2023 – Evolutionary Lights
Running: October 8, 2022 – February 12, 2023 *Closed on Tuesdays
Hours: 17:30-21:00 *Subject to change depending on the season
Venue: English Garden Rosa & Berry Tawada (Maibara, Shiga)Official Site: https://www.rb-illumi.com/
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Sumikko Gurashi Characters Appear at Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest
09.September.2022 | ANIME&GAME / SPOT
From November 12, 2022, until April 2, 2023, visitors to Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest in Kanagawa Prefecture will be able to enjoy an incredible light-up event featuring Sumikko Gurashi characters! The outdoor resort is only an hour from Tokyo and won’t disappoint.
A World First! Illuminated Sumikko Gurashi AreaVisitors can enjoy riding the 250-meter-long Rainbow Lift for an aerial walk above the millions of lights. The adorable Sumikko Gurashi characters will be waiting for guests in a special themed area.
Goods Featuring Original Illustrations Available–with a Collab Menu!
The event will also offer goods decorated with newly-drawn art inspired by the Lake Sagami lights, with Sumikko and her friends enjoying the show. Along with merchandise, guests will also be invited to sample collaboration food and drinks at the park’s restaurant Wild Dining. Each dish will also come with a bonus!
Come enjoy these incredible lights along with everyone’s favorite Sumikko characters! With 6 million lights on display, this is one of the largest in the Kanto area. More details will be coming soon, so keep an eye out!
Information
Sumikko Gurashi x Lake Sagami Illumination
Running: November 12, 2022 – April 2, 2023
Special Site:
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Luxury Brand Burberry Collaborates with Manga Series Blue Period on Original Story
18.August.2022 | ANIME&GAME / FASHION
Burberry has announced a collaboration with the popular art manga Blue Period! The unlikely pair will team up on an original story featuring a new character Lola, who is an anthropomorphic version of Burberry’s iconic Lola bag designed by Riccardo Tisci. This original story booklet will be gifted exclusively to visitors to Burberry stores nationwide starting August 20, 2022. Fans can also enjoy the digital version on Burberry.com.
This story depicts the emotional journey of Yatoria Yaguchi and Ryuji Ayukawa as they meet and are progressively more influenced by Lola. Hachitaro is inspired by Lola’s boldness, inner strength, purity, and free self-expression, and is inspired to free himself from everything external and internal holding him back.
To commemorate this partnership, a special wallpaper featuring an illustration by Tsubasa Yamaguchi, the author of Blue Period, will be available exclusively from Burberry’s official LINE account starting on the first day of the collab. The Burberry Omotesando takeover event will also run through September 5, so come enjoy a fashionable manga world!
©Tsubasa Yamaguchi/Kodansha
Information
Burberry Omotesando Takeover
Running: August 20 – September 5, 2022
Venue: Burberry Omotesando
Hours: 11:00-20:00
*Original Story Booklets are only available in limited quantities.
Details: https://jp.burberry.com/c/collaborations/blue-period-anime/