Tsuchiya Kaban is known around the world for its Japanese craftsmanship and handmade goods. The company has now opened TSUCHI-YA, a glassware specialty store! The shop opened on Asakusa’s Kappabashi Dougu Street on August 18, 2022.   At TSUCHI-YA, visitors can purchase the works of over 35 glass artisans from 13 prefectures throughout Japan, all of whom are dedicated to the art of making beautiful things. Aiming to share the beauty of glass with customers, many pieces on display are perfect for daily use. In addition to unique handmade glassware, the collection also features faceted glassware, each incorporating advanced techniques to bring traditional designs into the modern age. The techniques used to create each piece of glass are also incredibly diverse. Along with faceted glass, visitors can find sandblasted glass, which uses sand to create intricate patterns, as well as blown glass. Also keep an eye out for sustainable items such as Ryukyu glass, a traditional Okinawan craft made from recycled glass melted from used bottles, and coasters made from wood, leather and other scrap materials.The interior design for the shop was done by the creative team that also handles Tsuchiya Kaban stores. The dark tones found on the first floor make the transparent glassware shine. The second floor is an upscale gallery with a white ceiling, walls, and floor, featuring colorful faceted glasses and accessories, as well as vases, art, and more.TSUCHI-YA embodied Tsuchiya Kaban’s passion for craftsmanship and will continue to share incredible handcrafted Japanese glassware. The company wants to bring Japanese politeness to the world.

Flower Miffy Juice Garden, a drink stand inspired by Flower Miffy, a florist version of the Dutch character Miffy, has begun selling the perfect drink for the early summer weather. The Marguerite Cream Soda is on sale now at the Asakusa location.  

Marguerite Cream Soda

Flower Miffy Glass Vase Flower Frame

    The Marguerite Cream Soda features refreshing lemon soda topped with sliced lemon, thick vanilla ice cream, a Miffy cookie and a marguerite flower. Visitors can also find a special Miffy glass vase at the Asakusa store for a limited time, perfect for displaying flowers at home. Come enjoy shopping for Miffy goods while sipping a refreshing beverage this summer!   Illustrations Dick Bruna Ⓒ copyright Mercis bv,1953-2022　www.miffy.com

The amusement park Asakusa Hanayashiki will hold a collaboration event with the TV anime Gintama titled Gintama Festival from December 20, 2021 to January 16, 2022.    

Mission clear bonus acrylic coasters (4 types/randomly distributed).

   

Original Merchandise (example)

 

Reward for ordering original food: one original coaster (10 types/randomly distributed).

The lineup for the Gintama Festival includes sales of event-exclusive original merchandise, a riddle solving rally, and collaboration food. In addition, the special ticket, an advance ticket with special offers that will make the event even more enjoyable, will be available for purchase. Please look forward to this special event that Gintama fans can enjoy to the fullest.     ©空知英秋／集英社・テレビ東京・電通・BNP・アニプレックス

The huggable next-generation pet robot LOVOT was first released one year ago, and to celebrate, some limited time merchandise and sweets are now on sale!  

LOVOT LOVOT Anniversary Dessert Plate, available until October 31, 2021

Autumn Only! LOVOT LOVOT Chicken Plate with Mushroom Sauce, available until November 30, 2021

Coaster / Postcard / Clear Folder

LOVOT Cafe Original Coaster / LOVOT Cafe Original Smartphone Case

LOVOT Cafe Original Tote Bag / LOVOT Cafe Original T-Shirt (Unisex)

LOVOT Cafe Original Case / LOVOT Cafe Original Handtowel 

LOVOT Cafe Original Ballpen with Charm / LOVOT Cafe Original Mug

LOVOT Cafe Original American-style Cookie / LOVOT Cafe Original Natural Plate

LOVOT Cafe Original Pin

   Featured in the special Dessert Plate is a loveable cake with LOVOT’s face, along with mini rolls, mini cupcakes, and vanilla ice cream with fruit on top. The LOVOT cake is made with milk chocolate and coffee mousse, along with chocolate streusel for a more mature flavor that isn’t overly sweet. Those who visit the store on or after October 1 will receive a limited-edition novelty drawing while supplies last. Coasters and postcards will also be given away on a first-come, first-served basis from October 1 until October 15, while clear folders will be gifted on or after October 16.    The goods for this collection are based on the theme of ‘LOVE is here,’ so please look forward to these sweet collectibles and many more years of LOVOT!  

Asakusa Hanayashiki, an amusement park in Tokyo, has announced a summer event in collaboration with the ongoing anime series Kageki Shojo!! which will take place from August 21 to September 12.

Cute original artwork illustrated for the event

Take part in the stamp rally

Original Ticket Folder (With Pseudo Ticket)

 

Original merchandise

 

Bromides: ¥550 (Tax Included)

Acrylic Figure: ¥500 (Tax Included) / Acrylic Figures: ¥880 Each (Tax Included)

Acrylic Keyrings | ¥770 Each (Tax Included)

Pins: ¥300 Each (Tax Included)

Receive a free postcard when you order a drink or dessert

Receive a free coaster when ordering a drink

Receive an original tote bag when buying a special ticket

Kageki Shojo!! is a manga series by Kumiko Saiki. The anime adaptation began airing on July 4. A collection of cute original illustrations of 22 characters from the series have been drawn for the event which will be dotted around the park. Fans can also take part in a themed stamp rally, enjoy food inspired by the series, buy merchandise, and more.

Imabari is a city in Ehime Prefecture that faces the Seto Inland Sea. Since olden times, it has flourished as an important location for marine traffic. It's home to a bounty of recognised national treasures and historical heritage sights, and is also famous for its production of citrus fruits such as mikan. Japanese pop star, model, and icon Kyary Pamyu Pamyu took a trip to this ancient city to discover its wonder and beauty.   A Visit to the Historical Sea Route

   

Oyamazumi Shrine

A 'power spot' revered by prominent peopleOyamazumi Shrine has been revered by prominent figures throughout history as a place dedicated to the god of the mountain, god of the ocean, and the god of war. It's home to numerous Important Cultural Properties which are available for viewing by the public such as the armour worn by the military commander Minamoto no Yoshitsune when the Minamoto clan won the Genpei War (1180-1185), armour worn by women, and more. The shrine is also a notable power spot for the ancient tree that has stood there for 2,600 years and is now recognised as a natural monument of Japan. Power spots are places in Japan where the spiritually-inclined draw energy from.   InformationOyamazumi ShrineAddress: 3327 Omishimacho Miyaura, Imabari, Ehime 794-1393, JapanTEL: 0897-82-0032Opening Hours: Sunrise to 17:00National Treasure Building: 8:30-17:00 (Last Entries 16:30)Official Website: https://oomishimagu.jp/  

Kurushima Kaikyo Service Area

Lip-smacking food aplentyIf you're one for great views, then the Kurushima Kaikyo service area is a must-visit, offering a panoramic look at the Kurushima Strait of the Seto Inland Sea. The service area is very well know particularly for the Jaguchi Mikan Juice, something of a city legend in Ehime where you can enjoy fresh mikan juice straight from a tap. You can also tuck a rice bowl dish made with tachiuo hairtail caught in the Seto Inland Sea that's made to look like Kurushima Kaikyō Bridge, or try Imabari's soul food dish: the Imabari Yakibuta Tamago Meshi, a pork, egg, and rice bowl. Don't pass up the chance to snap a photo at the designated photo spot with the Seto Inland Sea in the back either like Kyary above.   InformationKurushima Kaikyo Service AreaAddress: 3-9-68 Ohamacho, Imabari, Ehime, 794-0002, Japan Food Court: [Weekdays] 8:00-21:00 / [Weekends & Holidays] 7:00-22:00 Shops: [Weekdays] 8:00-21:00 / [Weekends & Holidays] 7:00-22:00 Outside Shopping Area & Cafes: [Weekdays] 9:00-17:00 / [Weekends & Holidays] 9:00-18:00 Official Website: https://www.jb-highway.co.jp/sapa/kurushima.php  

Murakami Suigun Museum

Dedicated to the Imabari heroes who protected the oceanMurakami Suigun Museum is dedicated to kaizoku—pirates, or lords of the sea—something which conjures to mind villainy or bad guys, but the Murakami pirates were also considered heroes who helped maintain order and protect the sea during the Sengoku warring period of Japan. The museum features many displays of Murakami family treasures including the battle surcoat which the pirate leader wore over his armour, proudly bearing the Murakami family crest. Visitors can wear replicas of this coat, which Kyary tired herself: "Now I'm sorta like a military commander too," she said.   Information Murakami Suigun MuseumAddress: 1285 Miyakubocho Miyakubo, Imabari, Ehime 794-2203, Japan TEL: 0897-74-1065Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00Closed: Mondays (or Tuesday if the Monday falls on a public holiday) / New Year Holidays (Dec 29-Jan 3)Official Website: https://www.city.imabari.ehime.jp/museum/suigun/  

Roadside Station Yoshiumi Iki-iki-kan

A bundle of fun and entertainment in one placeRoll on up to Roadside Station Yoshiumi Iki-iki-kan to enjoy a shichirin BBQ feast with fresh seafood caught in the Seto Inland Sea while gazing out across Kurushima Kaikyo. This building complex serves as a resting spot and is also the perfect place to purchase local souvenirs including Ehime specialty products. It's also famous for its offering the chance to board a boat to ride around Kurushima Kaikyo, renting out bicycles, and more. You'll also be able to meet Koro-chan, a popular fish who has lived there for 30 years.   InformationRoadside Station Yoshiumi Iki-iki-kanAddress: 4520-2 Yoshiumichomyo, Imabari, Ehime 794-2114, JapanTEL: 0897-84-3710Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00Restaurant: 10:00-16:00 (Last Orders 15:00)Closed: New Year's Day (and certain days in winter)Official Website: http://www.imabari-shimanami.jp/ikiiki/  

Dolphin Farm Shimanami

Meet the cute and friendly dolphins   Dolphin Farm Shimanami, which is connected to Hakata Beach, is the best and biggest place in Japan to interact with dolphins. Visitors can get close to them and the dolphins will show off their tricks and skills. There's even a car camping area you can stay at.   InformationDolphin Farm ShimanamiAddress: 1673 Hakatacho Kanoura, Imabari, Ehime 794-2302, JapanTEL: 0897-72-8787Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00Closed: On days with bad weathOfficial Website: https://www.df-shimanami.com/  

Hakata Beach

A white sandy beach rolling out 200-meters      Hakata Beach is located at the base of Oshima Bridge in Hakata. The beach is famous for its salt which is best tried on their popular sweet-tasting sea salt ice cream.   InformationHakata Beach Address: 1668-1 Hakatacho Kanoura, Imabari, Ehime 794-2302, Japan Sea Bathing: Early July - Late AugustOfficial Website: https://www.city.imabari.ehime.jp/kanko/spot/?a=198  

Imabari Towels

High quality towels woven with tradition and technique   Imabari is the biggest producer of towels in Japan. Even their white towels alone have countless types you can choose from, allowing you to pick which level of softness and comfort you want. The iconic brand logo is also impactful, capturing the quality, production, and enthusiasm that the makes have for the product. Kyary herself uses them all the time!   Information Imabari TowelOfficial Website: https://www.imabaritowel.jp/  

Sunrise Itoyama

Need a bike?Sunrise Itoyama, located in the Imabari Central Cycling Terminal, is a rental bicycle service that has bikes and helmets for everyone's needs. Rent out a bike and ride the Shimanami Sea Route which connects Ehime and Hiroshima with a series of bridges that hop across the islands of the Seto Inland Sea.   Information Sunrise ItoyamaAddress: 2-8-1 Sunabacho, Imabari, Ehime 794-0001, JapanTEL: 0898-41-3196Rent-a-Cycle Details: https://www.sunrise-itoyama.jp/archives/rentacycle/Official Website: https://www.sunrise-itoyama.jp/  

Marutomi

The famous restaurant known to every localIf you want the real experience of Imabari's yakitori soul food, you should visit Marutomi, a yakitori eatery. Imabari yakitori is different from the usual Japanese yakitori as it doesn't come skewered. Instead, the chicken is cut into small pieces and fried that way. One of the most popular ways to have it is with the skin on so the outside is crunchy and the inside succulent. It goes perfect with a cup of sake too.   Information Marutomi2-3-6 Katayama, Imabari, Ehime 794-0063, JapanTEL: 0898-23-2740Opening Hours: 17:30-22:00Closed: WednesdaysOfficial Website: https://maru-marutomi.jp/  

Imabari Castle

A castle by the seaImabari Castle, built by the daimyo Tōdō Takatora, is known famously as one of Japan's three "Castles on the Sea" and was also listed in Japan's Top 100 Castles. When it was first constructed, boats could enter the moat from the ocean. It's a site that breathes the prosperity that Imabari has enjoyed as a significant location for maritime traffic, the same Imabari that the Murakami pirates sought to protect. Head on up to the top of the castle to stand on the observation deck and gaze at an unbroken view of the city.   InformationImabari CastleAddress: 3-1-3 Toricho, Imabari, Ehime, 794-0036, JapanTEL: 0898-31-9233Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00Closed: December 29 - December 31Official Website: https://www.city.imabari.ehime.jp/museum/imabarijo/  

Kirosan Observatory Park

A breathtaking spectacle to rememberKirosan Observatory Park is officially recognised by Setonaikai National Park. Standing atop the observation deck fills the eyes with wonder as they gaze upon a panoramic stretch of Imabari, the Seto Inland Sea, and Kurushima Kaikyo all at once. Kyary wrapped up her time in Imabari here as the sunset coloured the sky and sea in warm evening hues.   Information Kirosan Observatory Park Address: 487-4 Yoshiumicho Minamiura, Imabari, Ehime 794-2115, JapanNo Fixed Holidays Open 24-hours a day Official Website: https://www.city.imabari.ehime.jp/kanko/spot/?a=182   Imabari Tourism Information: https://www.city.imabari.ehime.jp/kanko/   We hope you enjoyed joining Kyary on her adventures across Imabari, and perhaps she even got you a little curious in wanting to visit the city yourself. It's a treasure trove filled with vistas by the sea, in nature, and in the city itself with its Important Cultural Properties. Food is also a big part of travel for many people, so you can rest assured that your belly will be satisfied in Imabari as you try their speciality mikan, fresh seafood fished in the Seto Inland Sea, and more.