#Japan #Tokyo #JR East #Ueno Station #Ecute Ueno

Ecute Ueno: A Revitalized Culinary Hub at Ueno Station

Ueno Station, managed by JR East's Cross Station Development Company, is set to unveil the fully renovated Ecute Ueno on November 18, 2025, after a transformative two-and-a-half-year renovation. With the tagline "Make Every Day Your Own," the new Ecute aims to cultivate a space where daily discoveries and personal expressions flourish. Expect 67 permanent shops, showcasing a diverse array of offerings including sweets, bento boxes, bakery items, and even a clinic.

As the first year-end season approaches post-renovation, Ecute Ueno is already brimming with unique treats, including local panda-themed souvenirs and winter bento boxes perfect for train journeys. Here, we’ll explore the best of Ecute Ueno’s new additions, ideal for holiday gifting.

Topic 1: Must-Try Sweets for Your Holiday Gifting

In April 2025, four captivating sweet shops will open on the third floor inside the ticket gates—all perfect for gifts or your own indulgence. Look out for delicious panda-themed delicacies that embody the spirit of Ueno!

Featured Treats:

1. PANDA #pf81 Box (8 pieces) - 1,680 JPY (Fruians Gallery)
- This delightful package features the popular salt caramel financiers, renowned for their rich flavor and smooth texture. The heart-shaped petite sizes are adorned with a panda designed by artist Ryohei Matsumoto, making them not just tasty but also visually appealing.

2. Panda Donut - 529 JPY (Donut Mori)
- A charming donut designed to look like a panda, made with a mochi dough that's crafted over three days. This donut is not only adorable but also delightful to eat, featuring a creamy filling that complements the light texture perfectly.

3. Panda's Cocoon - 237 JPY (Ginza Kanra)
- These steamed dorayaki come stamped with a panda imprint and make for a fantastic gift. The fluffy texture and rich flavored red bean paste from Hokkaido offer a traditional yet whimsical treat.

4. Tarte Marbre - 918 JPY (A La Campagne)
- This exclusive tart mirrors the panda's colors with a beautiful marbled design that hints at chocolate mousse and banana encased in a buttery shell.

5. Mini Premium Pound Cake (6 pieces) - 1,934 JPY (Rain)
- Perfect for sharing, these mini-sized pound cakes boast the rich flavor of Hokkaido ingredients, ideal for family gatherings or as a thoughtful gift.

6. Jiiichirou's Baumkuchen - 2,600 JPY (Jiiichirou)
- Renowned for its moist and fluffy texture, this artisanal baumkuchen embodies the highest craftsmanship and is a definite must-try.

Topic 2: Bento Boxes for Travel

Expected to open in April 2025, a range of new bento shops featuring sushi, sukiyaki, and Korean specialties will cater to travelers looking for gourmet options on the go. Here’s what to look out for:

Top Bento Picks:

• - Nigiri Set ‘Benkei’ - 1,545 JPY (Sushi Sado Benkei)

- This sushi box highlights the finest ingredients from Sado Island, combining premium rice and the freshest seafood.

• - Wagyu Beef Box - 1,944 JPY (Asakusa Imohan)

- Renowned for its rich flavor, this bento features carefully cooked black wagyu beef, offering an extraordinary dining experience.

• - Exquisite Tai Meshi Bento - 1,390 JPY (Tsukada Farm OBENTO＆DELI)

- Chill out with this unique bento, consisting of flavorful rice cooked in natural seabream broth, paired with delectable chicken dishes.

• - Korean Beauty Variety Bento - 1,080 JPY (Hanbi-zan Express)

- Enjoy a vibrant selection of Korean dishes that are both healthy and tasty, perfect for sharing.

Topic 3: Authentic Eat-In Options

Exclusive restaurants at Ecute Ueno ensure that travelers can savor a meal or snack conveniently:

• - ABuri Sushi Set (3 types) - 990 JPY (Standing Sushi Sado Benkei)

- Fresh sushi crafted using high-quality Sado rice, ideal for sushi lovers.

• - Special Curry Udon - 1,000 JPY (Oniyanma)

- Experience rich flavors with local ingredients and substantial portions of beef.

• - Tonkotsu Ramen with Egg - 1,000 JPY (Tokyo Pork Bone BASE by Ippudo)

- Indulge in creamy, flavorful ramen complemented with the perfect soft-boiled egg.

• - Special Tan Tan Noodles with Dumplings - 2,520 JPY (T's Tan Tan)

- A vegan delicacy that’s both delicious and environmentally friendly.

As we eagerly await the grand reopening, make plans to experience all that Ecute Ueno has to offer. Find your favorites and enjoy delightful treats that enhance your travels and celebrations during the festive period.

For more information, check the official website of Ecute Ueno.