It’s Springtime again, cue the scrambling to get plane tickets to Japan – the reigning champion of Sakura hot spots. But even if you didn’t get those golden tickets on time, or if a trip to Sakura haven will a burn a hole in your pocket, here’s something that’ll perk you up.
Isetan’s Sakura Matsuri is a 13-day fair happening at NEX L1 Atrium from 27th March to 8th April, selling all things Sakura, from food to Japanese cultural products, to satiate your cherry blossom FOMO:
It’s not uncommon for drinks to be present at any Japanese gathering, especially when celebrating important seasons like the arrival of Spring. Likewise, you can ring in Hanami, which refers to the traditional Japanese springtime custom of flower viewing, with these refreshments.
The Orion Sakura Beer ($19.90 for 6 cans, originally $22.20) is a crowd favourite because of the rich and flavourful hints of Sakura infused into it.
New to the fare and popular among kids, this Sakura Cola ($3) is both light and refreshing – the sweetness of the Sakura flavouring contrasts well with sparkling soda.
People who enjoy lighter alcohols will love the Kitaoka Sakura Sarasara Liqueur ($19.90 for 180ml, originally $22.90). Contained in a spherical, potion-like bottle, this also comes with a fully-bloomed cherry blossom suspended within. This sweet liqueur also has tangy and flowery notes from barley shochu and fruits – perfect as a cocktail mixer.
During the Hanami season, the Japanese often gather with friends and family to have picnics under Sakura trees.
Channel some Springtime vibes by munching on Singaporean favourites like Takoyaki ($7.50 for 6) and Sweet Potatoes ($2.50) at the fair. Better yet, dabao these snacks and camp under one of the many Bougainvillea trees in Singapore for a snap – if you’re really desperate that is.
Sweet potatoes ($2.50)
Another must-try at Sakura Matsuri is the Shio Sakura Ramen ($14). It may be quite bizarre to imagine how ramen would taste like with Sakura, but it’s actually still pretty delicious – the light floral notes of the Sakura balances out the rich and flavourful ramen broth. A single Sakura flower floats in the broth and it tastes just like a salty sour plum, making the broth more savoury.
For dessert, try some Okada Coffee Ice Candy Bars ($2.50), which come in traditional flavours like Black Sesame, Red Bean and Matcha. Or, if you prefer fruitier flavours, they also have Grape and Mango Ice Bars for you to end all your feasting on a sweet note. Try the Sea Salt Milk flavour for a change – it’s creamy and salty at the same time.
On top of the all-time favourites at Sakura Matsuri, you can look forward to seeing new items at the fair this year such as these Sakura Mochis ($4 per piece) that’re wrapped in Sakura leaves, or Sakura Daifuku Mochis ($3 per piece) filled with gooey and sweet red bean paste.
Look out for these plants flown in straight from Japan. If you’re into the whole bonsai garden aesthetic, this Kyoto Goyo Pine ($400) looks just like a miniature version of trees you’d see in any Japanese garden. The iconic seasonal Kyoto Cherry Blossom Plants (from $338) will also be available, with flowers in full bloom so you can bring a piece of Japan back home with you.
If a trip down to Kyoto to stroll down the streets in a kimono seems too far fetched, you can still experience something similar at Sakura Matsuri. Forget cosplay, here, you can don a pretty Yukata for a free photo-taking session with a minimum nett purchase of $60*.
What’s more, one of Japan’s most loved icons will be there – Pikachu! Get to see this huge life-size plushie at the Pikachu Meet and Greet session and remember to take plenty of pictures. After all, it ain’t everyday you’ll get to catch Pikachu IRL, amirite?
*Terms and conditions apply.
Yukata Photo-Taking Session
Date: 27 March – 8 April
Time: 1.30PM – 6PM (Last photo-taking session will be at 5.45PM)
Promotion: Make a minimum nett purchase of $60 at Isetan for a complimentary photo-taking session dressed in Yukatas.
Note: This is limited to the first 30 customers per day.
Pikachu Meet & Greet
Date: 30 March – 1 April
Time: 1PM, 3PM and 5PM
Venue: Isetan Serangoon Central, Children’s Department L3
There’s no need to feel like you’re missing out when you’ve got a Sakura fest right here in Singapore. From food, to drinks, to all things Sakura, NEX’s Sakura Matsuri is the perfect place to be if you wanna get in on some serious springtime festivities – or if you’re just looking for something new to do after clearing all those leftover CNY snacks.
Sakura Matsuri 2018
Date: 27 March – 8 April 2018
Time: 11AM – 9.30PM (till 8:30PM on 8 April)
Venue: Isetan Serangoon Central, NEX Atrium, Level 1
This post was brought to you by NEX.
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