Hikaru Utada Announces Kingdom Hearts III Japanese & English Theme Songs “Chikai” / “Don’t Think Twice”
11.February.2018 | MUSIC
2017 was a big year for Hikaru Utada, who celebrated her 20th anniversary, co-produced the album Bunriha no Natsu by Japanese singer-songwriter Nariaki Obukuro, and released her first ever lyric book compiling the lyrics to all her Japanese songs from her debut single up to Anata (December 2017).
Utada is known worldwide for her contribution to the video game series Kingdom Hearts developed by Disney and Square Enix, having performed the main theme songs for two of the games – Simple & Clean was written for Kingdom Hearts and Sanctuary was written for Kingdom Hearts II.
It was announced at D23 Expo Japan 2018 held at Tokyo Disney Resort® and in the latest video game trailer that Utada will return to sing the theme song for the next entry to the series, Kingdom Hearts III.
The Japanese title of the song is Chikai. As with her previous Kingdom Hearts tracks, Utada will also record an English language version of the track, titled Don’t Think Twice. Both tracks will be released simultaneously worldwide.
This marks Hikaru Utada’s third entry to the video game series. PUNPEE released a remix of Hikari, the Japanese theme song for the first game, in January 2017 titled Hikari -Ray Of Hope MIX- which placed number one in charts in Japan and also peaked at number two on iTunes in the US. It was also a hit across Europe, creating a buzz across the globe.
Kingdom Hearts has gone on to be a huge success all over the globe, with more than 24 million copies shipped worldwide.
KINGDOM HEARTS III Trailer
Chikai will feature on Hikaru Utada‘s forthcoming seventh album, scheduled for release later this year. Together with her concert tour, look forward to her activity as we head into 2018.
■Information
D23 Expo Japan 2018: http://www.disney.jp/D23
Hikaru Utada Official Website: www.utadahikaru.jp
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Kyary Pamyu Pamyu Performs Theme Song for RPG Dark Tales ~Mirror and Mad Princess~
18.April.2023 | ANIME&GAME
The smartphone game Dark Tales ~Mirror and Mad Princess~ was officially released on April 11, and the popular singer and talent Kyary Pamyu Pamyu performed the theme song for the title.
The dark RPG tells a tale of the loss of childlike innocence and was pre-downloaded over 1 million times. The theme song, Magical Mirror, was written and composed by Yasutaka Nakata.
Fans of the genre won’t want to miss out on this mysterious mobile title!
Information
RPG Dark Tales ~Mirror and Mad Princess~
https://mirrorjp.onefungame.com/act/appreciate?utm=officialmedia5
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London-based Japanese Artist Rina Sawayama Covers Hikaru Utada’s Legendary ‘First Love’ at Tokyo Concert
20.February.2023 | MUSIC
Born in Niigata and living in London, international singer-songwriter Rina Sawayama released her second album Hold The Girl on September 16, 2022. Her Japan-based Hold The Girl Tour saw successful shows in Nagoya, Osaka, and Tokyo, with Sawayama generating plenty of buzz. During the final show on the tour, the singer surprised the audience with a cover of Hikaru Utada’s hit songFirst Love. The video of this incredible performance is now available to watch on YouTube!
First Love – Rina Sawayama (Hikaru Utada Cover, Tokyo Garden Theatre)
Prior to the Tokyo show, Sawayama took to Instagram, posting a comment for fans. “Since this is the biggest show I’ve ever done, I think I should cover a special Japanese track to commemorate the event,” she said. The singer had previously asked fans to share the songs they’d most like to see performed.
“Without this artist and without this song, I probably wouldn’t have become a musician or an artist. I heard this track when I was around six years old, and I remember dancing for my parents who were sitting on the sofa. This artist also celebrated her 40th birthday yesterday. This is my first cover, but I think it’s the perfect way to commemorate this special event. Please enjoy,” Sawayama concluded.
The audience responded to this surprise with a chorus of excitement, and this was surely an unforgettable night for many fans.
Rina is currently on the Hold The Girl Tour in Europe. At the end of March, she will make her Hollywood debut in the fourth John Wickmovie.
Information
Hold The Girl (2nd Album)
On Sale Now
Listen/Purchase: https://umj.lnk.to/RinaSawayama_HoldTheGirl
Purchase Bonus Details: https://www.universal-music.co.jp/rina-sawayama/news/2022-07-28/
Official Site: https://www.rina.online/ -
Japanese Indie Game Label Yokaze to Hold Exhibition at Taipei Game Show
27.January.2023 | ANIME&GAME
Japanese indie game label Yokaze will exhibit many anticipated upcoming titles at the 2023 Taipei Game Show. The event will be held in Taiwan from February 2 until February 5, 2023.
ghostpia
ghostpia’s visuals mix warm, delicate art that would be fit for an illustrated children’s book with glitch and noise effects, for a strangely nostalgic visual novel vibe. The story takes place in a snowy town where immortal “ghosts” live. When Sayoko, a girl who doesn’t belong, meets Yoru, a newcomer to town, her world begins to change. Her thoughts begin to drift outside of the town, and certain events bring her back to a lost friendship. Filled with mystery and a bit of violence, this title is being touted as a movie you can read on PC.
Developer: Chosuido
Release Date: 2023
Platform: Nintendo Switch™/Steam, etc.
Website: https://ghostpia.xyz/Recolit
Recolit is a pixel art mystery adventure game where players explore a strange town by following trails of light. After your spaceship crash lands in a mysterious place, you’ll have to help the residents of the town as you explore and progress through the story.
Developer: Image Labo
Release Date: 2023
Platform: Steam/itch.io (Others planned)
Website: https://image-labo.com/recolit/Kitsune: The Journey of Adashino
Kitsune: The Journey of Adashino is a 3D adventure game set in a mysterious version of Japan. One day, a fox girl and her frog friend find themselves on a mysterious island shrouded by darkness but for a few floating lights. Torii gates, food stall lanterns, and neon signs give light and color to the island. Something is lurking in the shadows, inching ever closer. Kitsune can use light to temporarily blind these demons, giving her enough time to find safe routes and hiding places. Be sure to enjoy this curious tale when it releases in the future!
Developer: Rias
Release Date: TBD
Platform: Nintendo Switch™/Steam (Others planned)
Website: https://www.foxandfrog.net/Information
Taipei Game Show 2023
Running: February 2 – February 5, 2023
Exhibitor Name: Yokaze
Booth Number: S-24
Official Site: https://tgs.tca.org.tw/index_2c_e.php -
Short Film Featuring Star Wars Character Grogu and Studio Ghibli’s Dust Bunnies Released on Disney+
17.November.2022 | ANIME&GAME / MOVIE
Over the past few decades, Star Wars has become one of the most beloved properties with fans around the world.
Grogu, known by many fans as Baby Yoda, first appeared in The Mandalorian, a series on Disney+ currently celebrating its third anniversary.
With his mysterious background and incredible use of the Force, the tiny and adorable character became a hit with fans around the world, quickly making him one of the most popular characters in the recent Star Wars series.
World-renowned Japanese animation studio Studio Ghibli recently produced a short animation starring Grogu and Makkuro Kurosuke, also known as the Wandering Soot or, in the title for the short, Dust Bunnies. The characters first appeared in the film My Neighbor Totoro.
Studio Ghibli director Hayao Miyazaki and producer Toshio Suzuki have long been friends with Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy, who readily agreed to produce the short as a symbol of their longstanding friendship. The short was directed by Katsuya Kondo.
Will you give this a watch on Disney+?
(C)2022 & TM Lucasfilm Ltd.(C)2022 Studio Ghibli.
Information
Zen – Grogu and Dust Bunnies
Streaming: November 12, 2022
Available on Disney+
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Shibuya Hikarie’s Disney HARVEST MARKET by CAFE COMPANY Store to Sell Christmas Menu Items and Merch
From November 9 until December 25, the Disney HARVEST MARKET by CAFE COMPANY Shibuya Hikarie location will be offering a special Christmas menu and exclusive holiday merchandise.
The location’s popular Afternoon Tea Party set will see a Christmas makeover, and a limited number of original Christmas cards will only be handed out to those who order one. Other menu items include a Stew Plate with Meatballs and Vegetables, Minnie’s Berry and Cocoa Mousse, and plenty more tasty treats to get visitors into the holiday spirit.
Menu
HAPPY CHRISTMAS! Afternoon Tea Set (Christmas Exclusive)
Original Christmas Cards (Limited quantity, not for sale)
Meatball and Vegetable Stew Plate
Berry & Cocoa Miss Sweet Mousse ~Minnie Style~
Berry Dot Cioccolata
Holiday Fruit & Spice Tea
Exclusive Goods
Almond Chocolate
A 2.7-meter-high pure white statue of Mickey Mouse will welcome guests to the location, which will be filled with Christmas decorations. Come enjoy a fun Christmas season
Information
Disney HARVEST MARKET By CAFE COMPANY
Special Christmas Menu
Available: November 9 – December 25, 2022
Address: Shibuya Hikarie 7F (2-21-1 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku)
Hours:11:00-20:00 (Last food and drink orders at 19:00
Weekends & Holidays: 11:00-21:00 (Last food and drink orders at 20:00)
Online Shop: https://d-harvestmarket-shop.com/
Official Site:https://d-harvestmarket.com
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Maison de FLEUR Introduces Baymax Goods to Ongoing Disney Collection
07.October.2022 | FASHION
Popular Japanese accessories brand Maison de FLEUR has started selling new goods as part of the Disney Collection. This time, Baymax from Big Hero 6 takes center stage, and items are available now at Maison de FLEUR locations nationwide and online.
The company chose Manami Enosawa to model the collection–a fitting choice, as Baymax is her favorite Disney character. Enosawa will also act as the director of the apparel brand ARUMDY starting this fall.
The Baymax collection features a total of eight items perfect for everyday use. Fans can find everything from slippers featuring the robot’s face to bags, charms, and pouches perfect for bringing to school or carrying around town.
Come enjoy Maison de FLEUR’s newest goods featuring Baymax, one of the most popular Disney characters in recent memory.Information
BAYMAX from the Disney Collection / Manami Enosawa x Maison de FLEUR
Release Date: October 8, 2022 *Available online on October 7 at 20:00
Where to Buy: Maison de FLEUR locations nationwide *Excluding Ikspiari store and outlets,
STRIPE CLUB online store (https://stcl.page.link/LQ19), ZOZOTOWN
Official Site: http://www.stripe-intl.com/ -
gelato pique Releases Chip ‘n Dale Bedding Collection
17.September.2022 | FASHION
Chip ‘n Dale will appear in a new bedding collection from the roomwear brand gelato pique! As part of the gelato pique Sleep collection, the adorable chipmunks will appear on a number of new products inspired by the theme of ‘getting ready for bed.’ Fans of the characters won’t want to miss the body pillow, nightcap, pillowcase, and other products sure to liven up your bedroom and sleep routine!
Merch Lineup
Chip ‘n Dale / 3-piece Set (Single)
Chip ‘n Dale Jacquard Cover
Chip ‘n Dale Jacquard Pillowcase
Chip ‘n Dale Nightcap
Chip ‘n Dale Body Pillow
The products will go on sale on the official site and online department store USAGI ONLINE starting on September 20, 2022 at 12:00 PM. They will also be available to purchase in select stores starting October 14.
Information
gelato pique Sleep – Disney Chip ‘n Dale Collection
Release Date: September 20 at 12:00 PM (Online Store)
Official Online Store: https://gelatopique.com/
USAGI ONLINE: https://usagi-online.com/floor/gelatopique/
*Available in select stores starting October 14
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UNIQLO’s UT Sweatshirt Collection Features Everything from Pop Culture Icons to Contemporary Art
19.August.2022 | FASHION
UNIQLO’s graphic T-shirt brand UT has revealed some new pieces for its Fall/Winter 2022 collection! Some new sweatshirts are hitting the market featuring everything from Peanuts and Disney characters to Museums of the World and classic Spider-Man art.
Peanuts
From the world-famous Peanuts comic strip comes a collection of sweatshirts for children and adults! Be sure to grab these adorable designs featuring the daily life of Snoopy, Charlie Brown and friends.
Release Date: August 22, 2022
The Philosophy of Andy Warhol
UNIQLO has worked with Andy Warhol’s pieces for a number of years, and the latest collection features the powerful messages the artist left through his works. While the words themselves are powerful, the designs are simple and easy to incorporate into any look.
Release Date: August 29, 2022
New York Pop Icons
Keith Haring, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Kenny Scharf were pioneers of New York pop culture in the 1980s. These bold prints are sure to turn heads.
Release Date: August 29, 2022
Museums of the World Collection
The Museums of the World collection of men’s shirts features beloved museums like the Tate Modern, the Louvre, the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, and more. This valuable collection was made possible by UNIQLO’s continued art initiative, as the company has continued to work with museums around the world to share the wonders of art with as many people as possible.
Release Date: September 12, 2022
Disney Dearest Friends
Many Disney films depict wholesome friendships born from fateful encounters. Keeping the theme of best friends in mind, these sweatshirts feature sweet terms and beautiful typography.
Release Date: September 5, 2022
Disney Mickey & Friends
The collection is inspired by American college sweatshirts, adding motifs of Disney characters. The vintage-style design will make you feel wonderfully nostalgic.
Release Date: September 5, 2022
Spider-Man 60th Anniversary: Amazing Years
Since his debut in 1962, Spider-Man has grown to become a huge figure in pop culture. This special collection uses some of the coolest comic book art of all time, perfect for today’s superhero fans.
Release Date: October 3, 2022
These sweatshirts are perfect for jazzing up your fall and winter wardrobe, so be sure to grab your favorites!
Information
UT Collection
Special Site: https://www.uniqlo.com/jp/ja/contents/feature/ut-graphic-tees/
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Kingdom Hearts 20th Anniversary Special Apparel and Accessories Collection Now on Sale
27.July.2022 | ANIME&GAME / FASHION
The Kingdom Hearts series is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2022 with a special collaboration collection! Inspired by the theme of “hearts being connected,” orders are now open on the Super Groupies website until August 15 at noon. A pop-up store will also be held at the Seibu Ikebukuro main store from July 29 until August 2, 2022.
The collection features a gorgeous lineup of 45 unique watches, bags, wallets, outerwear, and umbrellas, featuring nine popular characters: Sora, Riku, Kairi, Roxas, Axel, Xion, Ventus, Aqua, and Terra.
Series creator Tetsuya Nomura also created a special illustration for the collaboration, and one postcard featuring the image will be included with each ordered item purchased through the Super Groupies site.
Those who preorder items at the Seibu and Sogo department store will receive a set of two cards, plus a live-action postcard with styling photos. These will be delivered with the products ordered.
Don’t miss out on these unique items! Have you been playing Kingdom Hearts since the early days?©Disney
Information
Kingdom Hearts Series Special Collection
Order Period: July 25 – August 15, 12:00
Details: https://www.super-groupies.com/feature/kh3_06_watch
Official Site: https://www.super-groupies.com/ -
Disney SERIES CREATED by MOUSSY Reveals Autumn Collection
10.June.2022 | FASHION
High-casual brand MOUSSY has revealed the Disney SERIES CREATED by MOUSSY 2022 Autumn Collection! The items are now available to preorder at a number of online outlets.
QUATTING Design Series
BOA Series
THERMAL Series
The 2022 Autumn Collection lineup features original art drawn exclusively for MOUSSY. Each design was inspired by MOUSSY’s classic 70s and 80s feel, while also incorporating some 90s street style. The Mickey QUATTING Design Series is more casual, and for those wanting to stay more comfy and warm during the fall months, the THERMAL series has been updated with Mickey Mouse designs all over the fabric.
An original acrylic stand featuring the Mickey Mouse QUATTING Design is available while supplies last when preordering any items from the 2022 Autumn Collection at the SHEL’TTER online store.
©Disney
Information
Disney SERIES CREATED by MOUSSY – 2022 Autumn Collection
Preorders Begin on June 8, 2022
Where to Order:
SHEL’TTER WEB STORE: https://www.ec-store.net/category/disney_series_created_bymoussy
ZOZOTOWN
Details: https://www.moussy.ne.jp/disney/
Official Site: http://www.moussy.ne.jp
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Japanese Card Game SCOUT Nominated for German Game of the Year Award
09.June.2022 | ANIME&GAME
The card game SCOUT, designed by Kei Kajino and developed overseas by Oink Games, was nominated for the Spiel des Jahres Award in Germany on May 23, 2022. The yearly award is given to a card or board game and is known as the highest honor in the world of tabletop games. This is the second time in seven years that a Japanese-designed game has been nominated.
The Spiel des Jahres Award has been given out each year since 1979. There are three categories: Game of the Year, Kids’ Game of the Year, and Complex Game of the Year. Three board or card games are nominated from among those released in Germany in the previous year, and one is awarded the grand prize. The last Japanese game to be nominated was Machi Koro, a board game that has become extremely popular among Western audiences. The grand prize winner will be announced on July 16.
What is SCOUT?You have suddenly been appointed as the leader of a circus. Using the members of your circus you must put together a show that will beat out your rivals. Everyone on your team has a specific role. To fill in the gaps on your team, try to scout members away from other circus groups! With the addition of just one extra person you may set off an incredible chain reaction that helps you create a show that no other circus will be able to surpass. Will you battle with your current members? Or will you wait it out and try to recruit different ones?
You will feel amazing when you make the right choices in this speedy card game!
A new version has just been released for players purchasing the game from outside of Japan. In Japan, the original version was released by One More Game.
Information
SCOUT
Designer: Kei Kajino
SCOUT! – Original Version
https://onemoregame.mystrikingly.com/
SCOUT! – International Version
https://oinkgames.com/ja/games/analog/scout -
UNIQLO Releases New UT Collection Featuring Mickey & Friends Art by Steven Harrington
06.June.2022 | FASHION
UNIQLO’s graphic T-shirt brand UT has announced an adorable new Disney-themed collection. The ‘Mickey & Friends Art by Steven Harrington UT’ collection is a triple collaboration with Los Angeles-based artist Stephen Harrington and Disney. The items will go on sale at UNIQLO TOKYO and five other nearby stores on June 10 ahead of the collection’s launch at all UNIQLO stores on June 13. The colorful collection was inspired by the happiness, joy, and freedom Harrington felt as a child, which the artist expresses through classic Disney characters designed his typical pop style.
This collection is the first made in collaboration with Steven Harrington, whose vibrant art is inspired by California’s landscape and mixed culture. The colorful pop art found in his work alongside the beloved character Mickey Mouse is something Disney fans won’t want to miss adding to their wardrobe.Kids sizes are also available, so try coordinating with the younger people in your life this summer!
Information
Mickey & Friends Art by Steven Harrington UT
Preorder Date: June 10, 2022
Where to Order: UNIQLO TOKYO, Harajuku, Ginza, UNIQLO PARK Yokohama Bayside, Asakusa
Available at all stores on June 13, 2022
Collection:
Men’s T-shirts (4 designs): ¥1,500
Kid’s T-shirts (4 designs): ¥990
Special Site: https://www.uniqlo.com/jp/ja/spl/ut-graphic-tees/mickey-steven-harrington/men