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Shinagawa Prince Hotel's Anko Afternoon Tea Returns

The Shinagawa Prince Hotel is once again offering a unique afternoon tea experience, titled "Okota de Attaka Ankurabe" (Warm Anko Comparison), starting December 1, 2025. Following the success of last year's collaboration with the Japan Anko Association, which saw huge engagement from Anko fans, this second edition is anticipated to attract even more visitors.

Afternoon Tea Details

• - Name: Okota de Attaka Ankurabe
• - Location: Restaurant "Ajikaido Gojusan Tsugi", 38th floor of Shinagawa Prince Hotel
• - Prices: ¥6,500 or ¥8,000 (tax included, plus 13% service charge)
• - Special Kotatsu Seat Fee: ¥500 per person
• - Availability: December 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026

Why the Second Edition?

The success of last year’s "Okota de Attaka An Fondue," which became the most popular afternoon tea in the hotel's history, prompted the continuation of this beautiful partnership with the Japan Anko Association. This collaborative effort aims to spread the joy and versatility of Anko, a traditional Japanese sweet red bean paste, to an even broader audience.

What Is Ankurabe?

"Ankurabe" means not only to compare different types of Anko but also to foster a connection and deepen relationships through the experience of sharing food. This year, the afternoon tea will feature eight different kinds of Anko, allowing guests to enjoy a delightful tasting journey of Japan’s beloved bean paste.

The significance of comparison is rooted deeply in the Japan Anko Association's mission to promote appreciation and understanding of Anko. Founded in 2018 by the passionate Anko enthusiast Nishii Anko, the association has grown from 17 ambassadors to over 11,000 members by 2025. They firmly believe that the first step to loving Anko is knowing one’s preferences through tasting different varieties.

Anko as a Cultural Experience

Through the afternoon tea events, guests will not only delight in various Anko flavors but will also experience a heart-to-heart connection with this beloved delicacy. The setup mimics traditional Japanese gatherings around a kotatsu, a low table with a heater underneath covered by a blanket, fostering warmth and companionship.

Those who participate will have an opportunity to become certified as "Shinawa Anko Ambassadors" after tasting and interacting with the Anko offerings. This special title signifies their deepened appreciation and knowledge regarding Anko, and their role in promoting it further.

The Role of Shinagawa Prince Hotel

The mission of the Japan Anko Association is to promote peace through Anko. Partnering with Shinagawa Prince Hotel, a hub for international exchange and hospitality since the Edo period, underscores this commitment. The hotel serves as an ideal venue to showcase Japan's rich food culture and the nuanced history behind one of its most cherished sweets.

Official Information and Further Engagement

For more information about the "Okota de Attaka Ankurabe" afternoon tea, you can visit the official webpage of the Shinagawa Prince Hotel at here.

The Japan Anko Association

The Japan Anko Association works tirelessly to improve awareness and appreciation of Anko, launching events and collaborations across the nation. Under the guidance of Nishii Anko, they continue to foster a passion for this quintessential Japanese sweet. For more details, you can visit their official website here. By participating in such events, individuals not only enjoy delightful Anko experiences but also contribute to the cultural tapestry that makes Japan unique.

Engage with Anko like never before, as this delightful tradition makes its anticipated return and invites everyone to experience the art of Ankurabe.