Experience the Sake Culture of Fukushima at Tokyo Station's New Event
The Tokyo Station City Operating Council is set to launch an immersive event titled "Horo Yoi Fukushima" from April 9 to 13, 2026, at the B1 concourse event space known as Square Zero. This event, co-hosted with the East Japan Railway Company and JR East Cross Station, aims to engage visitors' five senses with the unique charm of Fukushima's local sake and travel experiences.
A Journey Through Sake and Travel
The theme for this event is "A Sake Journey That Will Make You Want to Visit Fukushima." Attendees are invited to experience their journey through six featured sake breweries in Fukushima via a 3D comic book installation that acts as a pseudo-travel experience. In addition, the main attraction, the Fukushima BAR, will guide participants to discover new ways to select their own unique drink choices, easily accessible right from Tokyo Station.
Throughout the event, a "Fukushima Farmers Market" will showcase a variety of renowned sake and local delicacies such as horse sashimi, grilled sesame dumplings, and traditional sweets. This is an opportunity for attendees to purchase special Japanese treats for themselves or as gifts for family and friends. Additionally, there will be several photo opportunities and a stamp rally, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the spirit of Fukushima.
This event primarily targets younger generations in their 20s and 30s who have had fewer opportunities to experience Japanese sake, as well as travelers passing through Tokyo Station. The goal is to not only allow guests to "buy sake" but also to provide a full "Fukushima experience."
Event Details
- - Date: April 9-13, 2026 (Thursday to Monday) 10:00 AM–8:00 PM. Opening at 1:00 PM on the first day and closing at 5:00 PM on the last day. Note that the Fukushima BAR opens at 2:00 PM on the first day and also closes at 5:00 PM on the last day.
- - Location: Event Space “Square Zero” inside Tokyo Station B1 Entrance
- - Key Features: 1) 3D comic book installations showcasing travel stories from six sake breweries, 2) The Fukushima BAR featuring tastings of sake, craft beer, and peach juice, and 3) The Fukushima Farmers Market selling sake and artisanal products.
Highlights of the Event
1. 3D Comic Installations
Participants can engage with the stories of six sake breweries as told through a modern comic format. By interacting with the 3D installations, guests will gain insight into the stories behind the sake's production and the nearby attractions. This experience serves to spark interest in an actual trip to Fukushima.
2. Choose Your Drink at the Fukushima BAR
At the Fukushima BAR, visitors can enjoy sake tastings featuring six carefully selected brews. Guests can combine their favorites to create their ideal flight of three or six different varieties. For those unsure of their preferences, fun activities like the Akabeko Yabusame (target practice) and a sake bottle roulette are designed to help attendees randomly discover their ideal drink.
3. The Fukushima Farmers Market
The market will sell a variety of premium sake that may not be readily available outside Fukushima, alongside locally sourced delicacies. This includes the rich flavors of traditional sweets and savory foods that represent the region.
Aim and Vision
"Horo Yoi Fukushima" coincides with the "Fukushima Destination Campaign" running from April to June 2026. The concept of this campaign revolves around experiencing the unique wind and culture of Fukushima under the slogan, "Happiness in the Breeze of Fukushima." By participating in this event, attendees will not only enjoy top-quality sake but also engage in a memorable trip that showcases the beauty and flavors of Fukushima.
Conclusion
The "Horo Yoi Fukushima" event presents a unique opportunity for city-dwellers and visitors to learn about and experience the rich culture surrounding Fukushima's sake. Mark your calendars for this exciting event at Tokyo Station and prepare to embark on a sensory journey through one of Japan's most unique regions!