A Taste of Hawai'i: KING'S HAWAIIAN Pop-Up in Japan
On October 23, 2025, the renowned Hawaiian sweet roll brand, KING'S HAWAIIAN, officially kicked off its first pop-up shop in Japan, named "KING'S ORANGE ISLAND," at OMOTESANDO CROSSING PARK in Tokyo. The event, which will run until November 3, promises to deliver a sensory experience of Hawaiian culture through various interactive activities and culinary delights.
The opening ceremony featured notable guests RIKACO, a well-known talent, and Ryota Katayose from the popular group GENERATIONS. They participated in a mini cooking show using the iconic sweet rolls, showcasing their versatility and success in the culinary world. With over 1,500 visitors on the first day alone, the pop-up was met with great enthusiasm and excitement.
An Immersive Hawaiian Experience
The pop-up shop aims to embody the spirit of Hawaii, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in its vibrant atmosphere. Attendees can look forward to various activities, including:
- - Slider Workshop: Guests can create their custom sliders using sweet rolls and different fillings, making for a delicious and personalized snack.
- - 'Ohana Workshop: Participants can craft traditional Hawaiian leis, tapping into the Aloha spirit and enjoying a hands-on cultural experience.
- - Halloween Specials: In line with the seasonal spirit, exclusive Halloween-themed meals are available, ensuring a festive experience.
RIKACO expressed her excitement for the event, saying, "Even as the weather gets colder, the warmth of Hawaii can be felt here in the city. It’s perfect for helping diverse generations enjoy this unique experience." Meanwhile, Katayose added, "After work, people can easily stop by and savor the tastes of Hawaii.” The atmosphere buzzed with joy, echoing their sentiments as guests indulged in the sweet rolls and sliders of KING'S HAWAIIAN, experiencing both flavor and culture.
Opening Ceremony Highlights
The kickoff ceremony commenced with a welcoming address from KING'S HAWAIIAN CEO Mark Taiera. Following the speech, RIKACO and Katayose took center stage to participate in a traditional Hawaiian ceremony called "lei peeling," which involves untying maile leaves as a symbol of welcoming.
RIKACO shared her longstanding connection with Hawaii, having vacationed there since her son's childhood, often making homemade lunches for family outings. She fondly reminisced about how her family loved the sweet rolls, stating, "They are delicious on their own, but can be grilled or dressed up in many ways, making them endlessly enjoyable!"
This was Katayose’s first occasion sampling the sweet rolls, and he noted their unique taste: "It feels nostalgic and comforting; the sweetness is truly delightful." Each guest then crafted a slider, using various toppings to create both savory meal options and dessert varieties. RIKACO created a healthy slider featuring avocado and salmon, while Katayose opted for a fruit-stacked dessert version, comparing the experience to a sushi roll assembly.
A Festival of Fun and Flavor
The opening was not just about food; it encapsulated a full Hawaiian experience. Guests were entertained by a Hawaiian hula performance, bringing a tranquil vibe to the evening. During the pop-up, several collaborations with top brands will introduce exciting daily events, ensuring that every visit offers new experiences.
Since its inception in 1950 in Hilo, Hawaii, KING'S HAWAIIAN has remained committed to delivering quality products inspired by traditional recipes and the essence of Aloha spirit. The brand is loved not only in the U.S. but also globally as it continues to connect families through its delicious offerings.
The pop-up is located at OMOTESANDO CROSSING PARK, Tokyo, and operates daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Entrance is free, and specialty collaborations with Hawaiian Airlines, Haagen-Dazs Japan, and other notable partners enhance the offerings available to attendees throughout the event.
For more information, visit the official KING'S HAWAIIAN Japanese website and social media channels to stay updated on the latest events and offerings during this delightful pop-up experience.
Conclusion
Celebrating not just the food, but also the enchanting culture of Hawaii, the KING'S ORANGE ISLAND pop-up invites everyone to step into a tropical paradise while in the heart of Tokyo. Don't miss your chance to experience the warmth and spirit of Hawaii, right at your doorstep!