#Japan #Tokyo #ENGAWA ASAKUSA #Golden Route #West by West

Explore Japan's Western Treasures at "West by West"

On February 20, 2026, ENGAWA ASAKUSA will host an exciting two-week pop-up event titled "West by West: Golden Route to WEST JAPAN POPUP store." This event aims to bring the rich culture and culinary delights of Western Japan right to the heart of Asakusa, a bustling area frequented by many tourists. As part of a new tourist route known as the "Western Golden Route," this pop-up will showcase various products and experiences that highlight the unique offerings of regions such as Setouchi, San'in, and Kyushu, all accessible from Osaka and beyond.

The "Western Golden Route" serves as a fresh alternative to the traditional tourist path connecting Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, and Osaka, inviting tourists to explore diverse aspects of Japanese culture, food, and regional characteristics. As Japan's inbound tourism market continues to flourish, this new route is garnering increased attention for providing a deeper, richer cultural experience.

What You Can Experience

Visitors to ENGAWA ASAKUSA will be treated to a carefully curated selection of 22 brands from 19 collaborating local governments along the Western Golden Route. Some of the standout products include:

• - Obi Teryaki Peanuts from Hyogo: Peanut snacks flavored with a traditional soy sauce made through wooden barrel brewing.
• - Kibidango from Okayama: A popular sweet made from millet flour, well-known throughout Japan.
• - Smoked Oyster Olive Oil from Hiroshima: A delightful combination of rich oyster flavor preserved in olive oil, perfect for pairing with red wine.
• - Pear and Pickled Scallion Dip from Tottori: A unique dip sauce with wasabi-infused tartar, tomato and basil, and radish and curry.
• - Dogo Ale Nikuman from Ehime: A delectable Japanese steamed bun.
• - Yame Matcha Chocolate Crunch from Fukuoka: A sweet treat combining traditional Green Tea with crunchy snacks.

Visitors will feel as though they are voyaging through Western Japan while still in Asakusa, thanks to a meticulously designed space that presents a harmonious blend of culinary and craft experiences.

Special Cafe Menu

In addition to the shopping experience, the pop-up will feature a special cafe menu, allowing guests to indulge in Fukuoka's culinary heritage:

• - Hakata Uirou and Yame Tea Set: A delightful combination featuring a traditional sweet known for its chewy texture and refined sweetness.
• - Craft Sake Tasting Set from Fukuoka: Sample a variety of innovative Japanese sakes infused with herbs, fruits, and spices, served alongside popular Hakata snacks.

Event Details

• - Name: West by West: Golden Route to WEST JAPAN POPUP store
• - Dates: February 20 (Friday) to March 5 (Thursday), 2026
• - Venue: ENGAWA ASAKUSA, 2-1-16 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
• - Organizer: Fukuoka City (for more information, visit Fukuoka City)

About ENGAWA ASAKUSA

ENGAWA ASAKUSA is a unique select shop that embodies the philosophy of connecting the world with the beauty and ideas of Japan. Offering over 400 exquisite items from around the country, this store also features a café/bar curated by tea farmers from Saga and is located just a three-minute walk from Asakusa Station.

With its mission of sharing Japan’s values with people around the globe, ENGAWA aims to create scenes of connection and emotion between Japanese and international audiences. Since its inception, ENGAWA has also operated the English-language magazine "Tokyo Weekender" and engaged in various marketing initiatives focused on Japan's appeal worldwide. For more details, visit ENGAWA.