Step into the bizarre world of the Jojo anime series at Bandai Namco Cross Store in Camden. The JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure World pop-up opened on the 1st August 2025 and it features mini games, exclusive merch and plenty of photo ops.
In partnership with Crunchyroll, Bandai Namco Cross Store Camden just lunched their new pop up.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The first time ever, they are hosting an event dedicated for Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure.
The pop-up features photo ops with various characters from the series, exclusive merch, mini games and novelty sticker giveaway.
Novelty Sticker Giveaway
Put your hands on exclusive character stickers. There are 12 types of stickers to collect, and you can get them by purchasing Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure related products for £10 or more and completing a survey at the counter.
Sticker design you get will be random.
Mini Games
Photo: Urban Adventurer
There are two different mini games to play:
Spin the Giant Wheel and you’re guaranteed to get an exclusive Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure can badge. 1 spin: £7.20
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Choose a coffee gum and offer it to Iggy. Enjoy Iggy’s reaction on the screen and receive a mini Iggy tote bag and an exclusive Iggy acrylic keychain. 1 play: £18
Exclusive Merchandise
Photo: Urban Adventurer
There are lots of exclusive merchandise available, including T-shirts, figurines, posters, tote bags, Iggy tumbler glass, tea towels, coasters and ribbon scarves.
Ready for your next adventure? The UK’s first manga Matcha bar opened near Piccadilly Circus. Yoshoku is in co-operation with Japan’s favourite lemonade brand, Lemonica. Expect Japanese sendo, delicious Matcha drinks, Japan’s viral Mount Fuji dessert and manga vibes.
Japan House London launched its new exhibition, ‘Pictograms: Iconic Japanese Designs’ on the 30th July 2025. The exhibition delves deep into how pictograms have removed language barriers around the globe by creating a unique visual language everyone can easily understand.
Daikoku Daigo, Art Director and Graphic Designer at Nippon Design Centre (left) and Simon Wright Director of Programming, Japan House London (right)
Photo: Urban Adventurer
We went to the press preview of the exhibition where we had the opportunity to meet Art Director and Graphic Designer at Nippon Design Centre, Daikoku Daigo who gave us a deeper insight into how Japan has played an important role in development of this word-free global language and we learnt the step-by-step creation of pictograms.
[BLOG POST IN BIO] New exhibition at Japan House London 𝙋𝙞𝙘𝙩𝙤𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙢𝙨: 𝙄𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙞𝙘 𝙅𝙖𝙥𝙖𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙚 𝘿𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙜𝙣𝙨 🚻💟📳🈴 The exhibition delves deep into how pictograms have removed language barriers around the globe by creating a unique visual language everyone can easily understand 🛄♿️ The exhibition has been created in co-operation with Nippon Design Centre (NDC), a global design agency known for creating the first full set of sporting pictograms for the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games. The pictograms later became the international standard for sporting events 🏊🏻♀️🚴🤺🏋️♀️ You can create your own pictogram at a lit up table or even be part of them by taking a selfie with one of the giant 3D pictograms! Pose under a Torii gate ⛩️ or next a sumo wrestler 🤼♂️ or take control of a giant pictogram train 🚆 📍 Japan House London | 101-111 Kensington High St, London W8 5SA (Closest station High Street Kensington) 📆 30th July – 9th November 2025 🎟️ FREE admission #japanhouselondon#pictogramas#japaneseculture#newexhibition#japanese#japan#CapCut
Whether we realise or not, we are guided by pictograms several times a day. Just think about the weather map on your phone, the pictograms on a parcel or even your beer can at the pub.
‘Pictograms: Iconic Japanese Designs’ exhibition has been created in co-operation with Nippon Design Centre (NDC), a global design agency known for creating the first full set of sporting pictograms for the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games. The pictograms later became the international standard for sporting events.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Did you know that the designing process started 5 years earlier in 1959?
Whilst at the exhibition, make sure you watch the interview with Nagai Kazumasa, graphic designer and advisor at the Nippon Design Centre, who will give you a glimpse into the creation of the famous pictogram collection and the challenges the artists faced during the designing process.
Throughout the decades, Nippon Design Centre has been involved in global projects and today has offices in Japan, Europe and North America.
From Cave Paintings to Emoji
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The exhibition delves deep into the history of visual communication, starting from 15,000 years old cave paintings made by early humans, to Egyptian hieroglyphs, to the Lascaux murals in France to today’s digital pictograms, the emoji.
As we can see, visual communication goes back to the earliest times of human history and is present till this day.
Pictograms are used everywhere from travel to tourist hot spots and maps to street signs to products labels and toilets. Pictograms – in fact – have become a critical role in global tourism and many other areas, making our everyday lives easier.
How travel signs would look like without pictograms
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Now, stop for a second and imagine a life without pictograms. Imagine how our lives would be without those simple little symbols. Without pictograms, we would have to read long texts displayed on boards at airports and stations and may even miss our trains because of that.
Japan’s Pioneering Role in Pictograms
3D Sumo pictogram
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Pictograms are created to inform and reassure in an easy-to-understand way regardless the language we speak or the country we are in and Japan’s pioneering role in the development of pictograms is undeniable.
Daikoku Daigo, Art Director and Graphic Designer at Nippon Design Centre (left) and Simon Wright Director of Programming, Japan House London (right)
Photo: Urban Adventurer
“When you see pictograms, you naturally understand where to go or how to use something, creating a sense of both security and freedom of movement. They are a ‘friendly point of contact’ between space and society.” – Daikoku Daigo, Art Director and Graphic Designer at Nippon Design Centre explains.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games was the first ever Olympic Games held in Asia. Visitors and athletes were expected from all over the world, and they needed to be able to navigate in a country whose language they didn’t speak.
That’s why multiple sets of pictograms were designed, helping visitors and athletes to find their way around Tokyo, and to be able to identify the different sports on the programme.
Nippon Design Centre have set up the standards for sporting pictograms that later were used all over the world.
Did you know that the word ‘emoji’ we use for digital pictograms also comes from Japan?
Letter ‘e’ means ‘picture’ and ‘moji’ means ‘character’. Emoji has been used to describe digital picograms from the 1990s.
Understanding the Essence of the Subject
Mind map for an apple
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Believe it or not, creating pictograms is a very complex process.
The artist needs to understand the core essence of the subject they want to work with. – explains Daikoku.
Let’s take an apple, for example. As the first step, the artist creates a mind map to visualise all the things an apple is connected with. They include colours and shapes, but also biblical meaning, like the forbidden apple in the Garden of Eden.
The artist has to keep in mind what essential information the pictogram needs to carry. The artist also needs to consider the size of the pictogram: will the pictogram be used in small scale or bigger scale? If the pictogram will be used in small scale, the designer eliminates all unnecessary details and elements to create a clear, easy-to-understand design that delivers harmony.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
If the pictogram represents a person and captures movement, such as walking or swimming, the movement will be broken down to frames (similarly to motion picture) and the artist needs to identify that one particular move that captures the essence of the action.
Create Your Own Pictogram | Be a Pictogram
Photo: Urban Adventurer
‘Pictograms: Iconic Japanese Designs’ has two fun interactive sections allowing visitors to create their own pictogram or even be part of one themselves.
You can create your own pictogram using a selection of elements and components provided. Select any elements you like, choose a theme and create your very own pictogram representing anything you like on the lit up table.
Create your own pictogram – interactive table
Photo: Urban Adventurer
You can even be part of a giant 2.5 metre tall pictogram by standing under a Torii gate sizing up to a sumo wrestler or taking control of a Japanese train.
London as a Pictogram
Photo: Urban Adventurer
As part of the exhibition, Japan House London ran a design competition among primary and secondary school pupils in collaboration with The Japan Society.
‘My Design’ program invited pupils to design their own pictogram representing a specific aspect of London important to them. The winning designs are featured as part of the exhibition.
About Japan House London
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Located in the heart of Kensington, Japan House London is the cultural home of Japan in the UK representing the very best of Japanese art, design, innovation, technology, and – with a lovely small café on the ground floor and a theatre cooking restaurant, called ‘AKIRA’ on the first floor – gastronomy.
Japan House London regularly hosts free exhibitions, workshops, talks, demonstrations, and screenings.
There are two other Japan Houses in the world: one in Los Angeles and one in São Paulo.
Shop
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Make sure you visit Japan House London’s shop where you can find not only exclusive exhibition-related products, but also Sake, stationery, artworks, kitchenware, handmade jewellery, books and more. All in the highest quality and straight from Japan.
Planning a holiday in Japan?
Why not visit Japan House London’s Travel Information Area on the ground floor? The Travel Information Area is run by the Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO). They can provide free guidance and recommendations on what to visit and when and provide additional materials, such as brochures to help planning your journey.
Ready for your next adventure? Enigmatic Japanese author, Uketsu’s new book, ‘Strange Houses’ is now available to purchase in the UK. We went to the press event hosted by Pushkin Press where we tried themed cocktails and ‘Strange Sushi’.
Following the roaring success of ‘Strange Pictures’, world-famous enigmatic Japanese author and YouTuber, Uketsu, has released their new mystery novel: ‘Strange Houses’.
Pushkin Press invited us to celebrate the publication of Uketsu’s next mystery sensation at Ichiba, Westfield.
Any Uketsu fans out there? [BLOG POST IN BIO] 𝚄𝚔𝚎𝚝𝚜𝚞: 𝚂𝚝𝚛𝚊𝚗𝚐𝚎 𝙷𝚘𝚞𝚜𝚎𝚜 press event @Pushkin Press Following the roaring success of ‘Strange Pictures’, world-famous enigmatic Japanese author and YouTuber, Uketsu, has released their new mystery novel: ‘Strange Houses’ 🏚️ Uketsu is just as mysterious as their novels. Despite of his world fame, no one knows their true identity 🤫 On their social media channels, Uketsu always wears a grotesque white paper mâché mask and they digitally distorts their voice. They have no face, no name, just an enigmatic pseudonym: UKETSU which means “rain hole” in Japanese @Life4cuts is running a limited-time collaboration frame with Strange Houses. Don’t miss it if you’re an Uketsu fan! @雨穴 #uketsu#strangehouses#booklover#horrorbooks#japaneseauthor#japaneseculture#japanese#pressevent#CapCut
World-famous Japanese horror writer with millions of followers on social media is just as mysterious as their novels. Despite of his world fame, no one knows Uketsu’s true identity.
On their social media channels, they always wear a grotesque white paper mâché mask and they digitally distorts their voice. They have no face, no name, just an enigmatic pseudonym: UKETSU which means “rain hole” in Japanese.
Addictive Story Line that Involves the Reader to Solve the Mystery
Photo: Urban Adventurer
‘Strange Houses’ story line is revolving around the floorplan of a house a Japanese family want to buy. Both the husband and the wife fell in love with the house, and they have serious intention to buy it, but they discover a sinister ‘dead space’ on the floorplan. It’s a tiny hidden room with no windows or doors.
As the story goes further, other bizarre discoveries emerge. Somehow the whole floorplan, the positions of rooms, windows and doors look strange. If you thought a floorplan can never be creepy, think again!
The book has a narrator that investigates the house and its odd floorplan with the help of an architect. The story encourages the reader to actively participate in resolving the mystery by studying the floorplan and learning more about the family that built the house and their complex relationships and rivalries with each other throughout generations.
Unlike ‘Strange Pictures’ which tells multiple stories that eventually connect to each other and create a whole story, ‘Strange Houses’ has one story line. It allows the reader to follow the story of one family – that built the house – from the beginning to the end.
Translator of the book, Jim Rion said that Uketsu wants their story to be easily read and accessible to all readers. That’s why Jim Rion focused on keeping the same clarity when translating the book from Japanese to English language.
The chilling Japanese mystery sensation is finally available in English. Do you think you can discover the terrible truth behind the eerie floorplan?
Strange Houses x Life4Cuts
Strange Houses x Life4Cuts collab photo frame
Popular Korean photo booth, Life4Cuts, has teamed up with Pushkin Press to bring you a hauntingly beautiful collaboration.
For a strictly limited time only, you can step into the eerie world of the Japanese horror writer, Uketsu and enjoy the thrill outside the pages.
Whether you’re a long-time Uketsu fan or just started discovering the Uketsu universe, you’ll guaranteed enjoy this enigmatic experience.
The collab frame is available between 3rd July – 2nd August 2025
Strange Houses Press Event
Photo: Urban Adventurer
‘Strange Houses’ press event was taken place at Japan Centre, Ichiba at Westfield Shopping Centre, hosted by Pushkin Press.
Special video from Uketsu for ‘Strange Houses’ Press Event in London
Photo: Urban Adventurer
At the beginning of the event, we had the unique opportunity to watch a special pre-recorded video by Uketsu made specifically for this event. In the video, Uketsu introduced their new book wearing their signature white mask and black outfit.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
We also had the opportunity to try themed cocktails and mocktails – the ‘Strange Drinks’ – made specifically for this event.
‘Dead Space Margarita’ was an ominous blue bend of Tequila, Blue Curacao and yuzu syrup, while ‘Rose-Tinted Dream’ was a dreamy pink mixture of coconut purée, lychee juice, cranberry juice, gekkaikan, alcohol-free Sake and a splash of caramel syrup.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Ichiba’s kitchen made the most creative sushi creations for us for this event. ‘Strange Sushi’ was a unique and surprising combination of Japanese and English flavours.
The vegetarian sushi contained a mix of vegetables and fermented red bean which had a very unique flavour and texture.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
At the end of the Press Event all participants received a goodie bag that contained a copy of the book, a ‘Strange Houses’ bookmark and two limited-edition pin badges.
Thank you for Pushkin Press for inviting me to this unique event!
Ready for your next adventure? If you love Japanese culture and food, you have to visit the UK’s first manga Matcha bar, Yoshoku.It’s just a 3 minutes walk for Piccadilly Circus station and has the coolest manga wallpapers, delicious and unique Matcha drinks, Japan’s viral Matcha Mount Fuji dessert and other Japanese-inspired food and drink. Yoshoku also in collaboration with Japan’s favourite lemonade brand, Lemonica.
[BLOG POST IN BIO] 𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝕌𝕂’𝕤 𝕗𝕚𝕤𝕥 𝕄𝕒𝕟𝕘𝕒 𝕄𝕒𝕥𝕔𝕙𝕒 𝔹𝕒𝕣 🍵💥 @Yoshoku.London Officially franchising with Japan’s cult favourite lemonade brand, LEMONICA, Yoshoku is the UK’s very first manga-themed Matcha bar 🍵💫 What to expect: 💥 The coolest manga vibes 🍵🍒 The best favoured Matcha Latte (you can even boost your drink with protein power, electrolyte powder, collagen, blue spirulina, CBD shot and more!) 🗻 The viral Matcha Mount Fuji dessert 🍋 Japan’s favourite lemonade (classic or soda) 🥪 Japanese-meets-Western menu 📍Yoshoku | 23 Denman Street, London, United Kingdom W1D 7HD (Just a 3-minute walk from Piccadilly Circus) #yoshokuldn#yoshoku#mangalover#matchalover#matchabar#animemanga#piccadillycircus#CapCut
Yoshoku is a cute little shop on Denman Street and has so much to offer!
Stepping into the shop feels like stepping into another universe. The coolest manga wallpapers provide the perfect backdrop to your food and drink, and trust me, you can easily spend an hour here sipping on delicious Matcha latte, munching on a Matcha Mount Fuji dessert or a refreshing fruit sando while posing in front of the manga walls.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The more you look, the more you discover!
Look closer, and you’ll find the cutest manga girls and the hottest manga guys, the Mount Fuji, superheroes, robots and kawaii characters. Can you find the cute pirate octopus riding on a submarine?
When Matcha Meets Manga
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Yoshoku’s traditionally prepared Matcha is imported from local farms from Kagoshima District, South Japan.
Whether you choose a classic iced Matcha Latte, or boost it with Levander, cherry, caramel or rose flavour, satisfaction is guaranteed! They’re not too sweet, and the Matcha is not too strong. Perfect for a hot summer day.
Want some extra power to help you keep going with your day?
Power your drink with protein power, electrolyte powder, collagen, blue spirulina, CBD shot and more!
Yoshoku x LEMONICA
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Yoshoku is proud to officially franchising with Japan’s cult favourite lemonade brand, LEMONICA.
LEMONICA is known for their refreshing lemonades, crafted with a special syrup made from fresh lemons. They use an exclusive, non-heated, non-pressurised extraction technique that helps preserving the pure natural flavour.
They use original recipes straight from Japan and you can choose from classic or soda lemonade.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Order it for take away and you’ll get a cute take away can (no extra charge) with which you can carry your drink safely without the risk of spilling it wherever you go.
Matcha hot drinks also available: Matcha tea, Matcha Latte and Matcha Latte with Ginger and Turmeric.
Who is hungry?
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The food menu is a happy marriage of Japanese and Western flavours while honouring tradition and embracing innovation.
The menu includes Shokupan sandwiches and pastry. Shokupan is a Japanese milk bread known for its lightness and fluffiness. The sandwiches are made with Shokupan bread but inspired by Western flavours to push boundaries and respect Japanese tradition.
The sandwiches are heavily loaded and look amazing (they also have the cutest and most photogenic packaging!). Make sure you grab one (or two) if you’re craving for Japanese flavours.
Flavours currently available: Teriyaki chicken with lemon butter, Japanese egg mayonnaise and Tofu & avocado.
Desserts
Photo: Urban Adventurer
You’ve seen it on TikTok, now you can try it at Yoshoku. Say hello to the Mount Fuji dessert that quickly went viral in Japan over the past years.
What is Mount Fuji dessert?
Sweet layers of cheesecake, chocolate cake or apple crumble (your choice), gelato (they have so many mouth-watering flavours, including Sakura, Matcha, mango, latte and more), topped with chestnut pureé served in a form of vermicelli (Matcha or Vanilla flavour).
If you’re a content creator or just want a cool video for your TikTok, you can film as they press the chestnut pureé on top your dessert because the machine is on display right on the counter.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Craving some sweet bakery instead? Savour on the cutest Matcha bear cookies, munch on a Matcha chocolate brownie or grab an energy ball to refill your chakra.
If you love manga and matcha or just looking for a space to hang out with friends, Yoshoku is definitely a place to be!
Shop
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Loved the drinks? Why not buy their organic Matcha blends on the spot or order online?
Photo: Urban Adventurer
One Piece card games also available to purchase on the spot as well as Yoshoku branded baseball hats (they look amazing).
Ready for your next adventure? Squid Game: The Experience has finally arrived in London. Try the games you’ve seen in the show and see if you could survive.
𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐏𝐢𝐞𝐜𝐞 ⚓️🏴☠️ pop-up at @Bandai Namco Cross Store UK ⚓️ Take photo with your favourite characters ⚓️ Play One Piece card games ⚓️ Buy exclusive One Piece merch ⚓️ Take part in quests ⚓️ Put your hands on a pack of exclusive One Piece card game designed by the drawers of the anime to celebrate its 25th anniversary 📆 Until 1st June 2025 📍 Bandai Namco Cross Store Camden | Units 16-18 / 100–101, The Stables Market, Chalk Farm Rd, London NW1 8AH #onepiece#mokeydluffy#animelovers#popuplondon#luffy#egghead#eggheadisland#bandai#bandainamco#CapCut
Every year, Bandai Namco Cross Store hosts a special one-month pop-up within the store to celebrate Monkey D. Luffy’s birthday.
This year, the pop-up opened on the 2nd May and will be there for everyone to enjoy until the 1st June 2025.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The pop-up is focusing on the Egghead story arc. Visitors can embark on an adventure by discovering photo corners where they can snap the perfect shot with their favourite characters.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Free Luffy headbands are available all over the shop to add to the fun, and you can leave your birthday message for Luffy on the message board till the 11th May.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Complete The ‘Vegapunk Quest’ and receive an exclusive prize at the counter.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Anyone purchasing One Piece items will receive an exclusive Egghead Island sticker, or a sticker sheet featuring the Straw Hat Crew in their Egghead outfits with purchases over £20.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The luckiest One Piece fans even had the opportunity to meet Luffy in-store and receive a limited-edition birthday card and a cupcake with every purchase (that was a one-day event taken place on the 5th May).
If you play One Piece card game, don’t miss on the official One Piece Card Game Sealed Battles in-store during the pop-up. The first occasion was OP07 focusing on the Vegapunk-inspired set and occurred on the first weekend following Luffy’s birthday. The second battle will be held on the 25th May (Sunday).
New Exclusive One Piece Card Illustrations by One Piece Anime’s Artists
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Don’t miss the opportunity to get the new exclusive One Piece card illustrations that celebrates the 25thanniversary of the anime. The card illustrations are drawn by the anime’s own artists and purchases are strictly limited to 1 box per person.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
You can also have the opportunity to get your hands on tons of other exclusive and limited-edition merch during the pop-up.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
One Piece Gashapon machines are also available downstairs and upstairs.
Don’t miss this epic celebration at Bandai Namco Cross Store.
Ready for your next adventure? Learn more about real pirates and the golden age of piracy. Visit the ‘Pirates’ exhibition at National Maritime Museum and set sail to the Caribbeans to learn myth and reality about real life pirates, such as Blackbeard, Captain Kidd and Barthlomew Roberts.
Thanks to their adorable jelly bunny dessert, pretty interior and gorgeous presentation of their food and drinks, London’s new Japanese bakery, Tokyo Bagel London, has quickly become a social media sensation.
Located just a few minutes walk from Waterloo station, Tokyo Bagel London is a small, independent artisanal Japanese bakery.
They opened in December 2024 and are serving a variety of Japanese cakes, pastries, bread and premium teas and coffees.
Be prepared for a super friendly service with smiley staff who will make sure everything goes perfect during your visit.
The Interior
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The interior at Tokyo Bagel London is every content creator’s dream.
There are huge flower walls stretching up to the ceiling on both sides of the customer area, so no matter where you sit, you’re guaranteed to have the prettiest backdrop for your Insta photos.
Even the ceiling is decorated with flower garlands. Beautiful flower-shaped chandeliers make sure you have enough light for your photos.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The comfortable light pink velvet chairs and matching pink cushions add to the inviting atmosphere.
The place is not too big but still have enough seats to accommodate around 20-30 people and has a high end friendly atmosphere.
Food Menu
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Bagel sandos, special stuffed bagels, French toasts, and Japanese desserts and pastry are all on the menu.
They have the viral triangular-shaped chocolate hazelnut filled croissant and Matcha chocolate flat croissant available along with matcha strawberry vanilla crown, crepe cake (Matcha, mango and Oreo flavours), and of course the TikTok famous jelly bunny (in two different colours and flavours) and even the most adorable jelly capybara.
The Viral Jelly Bunny and Jelly Capybara
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Most content creators visit Tokyo Bagel to try the cute wobbly jelly bunny. The bunny is super cute and wobbly and available in two different colours and flavours: white with coconut flavour and pink with strawberry flavour.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Tokyo Bagel, however, has taken a step further. They also sell kawaii chubby chocolate jelly capybara.
The jelly desserts are £4.95 each, super fun to eat and very flavourful but not too sweet.
Drinks Menu
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Tokyo Bagel’s signature coffees include Matcha Bliss Latte, Sesame Velvet Brew, Chestnut Whisper Latte, Einspänner (Espresso, hazelnut syrup, cocoa powder, salted vanilla cream), and London Fog (English Breakfast tea, vanilla syrup, salted vanilla cream and cocoa powder).
Their Japanese beverages include Matcha Latte, Black Sesame Latte, Hojicha Latte, Yuzu Tea and ginger lemon tea. Classic hot coffees and hot chocolate are also available.
All the premium teas and coffees are served in stylish crockery to complement the beautiful Japanese dessert creations and give you the best chance to take beautiful photos for your Insta.
Ready for your next adventure? If you love Japanese cuisine and culture, you have to visit NOYA London.NOYA London is a hidden restaurant in North London and is inspired by a fictional Geisha warrior with super powers.
Located in North London, just a 5 minutes walk from Turnpike Lane station, NOYA London is a true hidden gem. This Pan-Asian restaurant is inspired by a fictional Geisha warrior, offering luxurious dining experience that tells a story of tradition and creativity.
⚠️Hidden gem alert ⚠️ 🪭[BLOG POST IN BIO] This Pan-Asian restaurant is inspired by a fictional Geisha warrior, called Noya – @Noya 🪭🗡️ Born with supernatural powers, NOYA was entrusted to use her powers and warrior heart to protect the culinary secrets of her mythical people: the Kumaso 🍣🥢 NOYA London is sharing the great Geisha warrior’s spirit and determination to protect traditions and flavours. The restaurant is inviting its guests for a culinary journey to the feudal Japan where NOYA was born, trained and fought her battles #asianfoodlover#panasianfood#asiancuisine#japanesefood#japaneseculture#geisha#japanesecuisine#hiddengem#CapCut
Legend has it that somewhere in Japan once lived a warrior Geisha, named NOYA. Born with supernatural powers, NOYA was entrusted to use her powers and warrior heart to protect the culinary secrets of her mythical people, the Kumaso.
NOYA was taught by Japan’s first samurai, Taira No Masakado to become the fierce guardian of the secrets of the Kumaso, and a formidable adversary to anyone who foolhardy try to uncover the mystery of the gastronomical arts of the Kumaso people.
NOYA had battles throughout centuries Far and wide to protect the delectable secret of her people, until she finally found solace within her Fortress of wonders where she’s been living since.
NOYA London is sharing the great Geisha warrior’s spirit and determination to protect the traditions and flavours.
NOYA London is serving dishes inspired by the traditional Japanese cuisine and exquisite Asian-inspired drinks. The restaurant is inviting its guests for a culinary journey to the feudal Japan where NOYA was born, trained and fought her battles.
NOYA London – Elegance and Tradition
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Upon arrival an elegant round door greets visitors. At the reception two full samurai armours and wagasa (traditional Japanese umbrellas) provide stylish background for your first selfie.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Inside the restaurant samurai-clad servers seat you under huge paintings of Geisha and Samurai.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Elegant flower arrangements of roses and Orchids run around the centre area of the dining room. Round mirrors with golden frames reflect back the golden light that delicately illuminate the room.
You will be seated in comfortable plush chairs or canapé at tables look like large mirrors with golden rims.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The entrance to the kitchen is adorned with a huge painting of a torii gate.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
In the next room guest can enjoy live DJs at the weekends or watch live sports while enjoying shisha pipes under the wagasa-shaped lamps.
Culinary Journey from Japanese Sushi to Korean Barbecue
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Being a Pan-Asian restaurant, NOYA London cannot settle for just one country. Although, the menu is heavily inspired by traditional Japanese cuisine, NOYA is offering the diverse and rich taste of all the different Asian countries.
What is a Pan-Asian restaurant?
While an Asian restaurant is focusing on the cuisine of a certain country or style, Pan-Asian restaurants are a fusion of all the Asian countries. The dishes are crafted and served using different methods, styles and ingredients from the most different locations with the aim to create innovative dishes and inventive flavour combinations never existed before while harmonising the flavours and respecting their origins.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
NOYA London’s main menu includes sushi, Robata grill, sharing platters as well as side dishes.
NOYA Maki Specials are the perfect example of a Pan-Asian restaurant’s menu. The ‘NOYA Special Lamb Maki’ for example, is a flavourful combination of Katsu Lamb, Korean glaze, sweet mayo and Aonori powder, while the ‘Crispy Crab Maki’ is an adventurous marriage of Japanese and Korean flavours.
The Robata Grill menu consists of the most diverse dishes and flavours. You will find Beef Noodle, Kushiyaki Chicken Skewers, Chicken Burger, Salt Dry Aged Rib-Eye Steak 250G, Vegetable Stir Fry Noodle and so much more.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The extensive drinks selection includes fine wines, authentic Japanese Sake, and classic and signature cocktails to perfectly complement NOYA London’s Pan-Asian cuisine.
Alcohol-free beverages and Mocktails are also available.
Crave Something Closer to Home?
Photo: Urban Adventurer
If you prefer to enjoy the traditional UK cuisine instead, NOYA London is proud to offer their Sunday Roastmenu every Sunday from 12pm.
Choose from 100 day aged roast beef, roast lamb, roast chicken or the mix of any two. Choose your sides and dessert.
Kids eat for £1 which will be donated to a local charity!
Special Events at NOYA
Photo: Urban Adventurer
NOYA London regularly host special events throughout the week.
Ladies Night
Every Sunday with live entertainment, 2-4-1 cocktails & house wines and other special offers on dishes.
Bottomless Brunch
The last Saturday of every month. £49.50pp that includes a 2 course set menu, live entertainment and bottomless Prosecco/Non Secco, juice or beer for 1hr or 45mins.
Sakura Fridays
Every Friday. Guest DJs from 7pm onwards. R&B, UK hits, Amapiano, Afrobeat.
#MeetMeAtNOYA
Every Saturday. Guest DJs from 7pm onwards. R&B, UK hits, Amapiano, Afrobeat.
Sunday Roast
Every Sunday from 12pm – 6pm. Kids eat for £1 which will be donated to a local charity.
TIP: Special offers with huge savings are available on Groupon!
Ready for your next adventure? Love themed dining experiences? Big Mo’s Diner will travel you back in time to the glorious 1950s America. Sit in a shiny red Chevrolet, sip on thick milkshakes, or shove in a Crispy Buffalo Burger while listening to 50s music.
Discover the serene world of Japanese carpentry. Japan’s highly developed carpentry culture is rooted in a deep respect for nature and the forests. Japan House London’s new exhibition, ‘The Craft of Carpentry: Drawing Life from Japan’s Forests’ guides visitors through thousands of years of woodworking traditions behind temples and shrines.
⚠️ New exhibition alert ⚠️ 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝘾𝙧𝙖𝙛𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝘾𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙮: 𝘿𝙧𝙖𝙬𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙇𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙅𝙖𝙥𝙖𝙣’𝙨 𝙁𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙨 at Japan House London [MORE INFO IN BIO] Discover the serene world of Japanese carpentry 🪵 Japan House London’s new exhibition, ‘The Craft of Carpentry: Drawing Life from Japan’s Forests’ guides visitors through thousands of years of woodworking traditions behind temples, shrines and teahouses 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩 🪵 A full-size Japanese teahouse 🪵 Interactive corner 🪵 Touch and smell experience 🪵 Intricate latticework (wooden decor the looks like lace) 🪵 Special events, demonstrations and workshops connected to the exhibition e.g. make your own coaster or chopsticks) 📍Japan House London | 101-111 Kensington High St, London W8 5SA 📆 12th March – 6th July 2025 🕰️ Mon – Sat: 10am – 8pm Sun & bank holidays: 12pm – 6pm NOTE: The gallery is closed on the 26th March from 5:30pm #japanhouselondon#japanhouse#japaneseculture#newexhibition#japan#japanese#japanthings#woodcraft#CapCut
Temples and Shrines, Teahouse Carpenters and Wood Joinery
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The exhibition focuses on three core aspects of Japanese carpentry: Dōmiya daiku (temple and shrine carpenters); sukiya daiku (teahouse carpenters); and kigumi (wood joinery) while uncovering over 1,000 years of woodworking techniques and carpentry culture deeply rooted in the respect of nature and trees.
Two-third of the Japanese archipelago is covered with forests, however, despite of the mountains, Japan has limited ore resources. This led to innovative techniques carpenters and craftsmen use to assemble wooden structures without using a single nail.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The technique is called ‘kigumi’ and the tools and methods Japanese carpenters use allow them to build temples, shrines, teahouses and other structures and buildings that remain in perfect condition for centuries withstanding earthquakes and the weather.
Over 80 different tools are on display to give an insight to what it takes to build a house using ancient techniques, unique to Japan.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Artisans and craftsmen do not only have profound knowledge of different types of wood, but they also have a deep connection with nature. During gathering essential material for their work, they communicate with spirits of the forest, called ‘kami’.
Visitors have a chance to learn more about the special ceremonies conducted when constructing wooden budlings. Those ceremonies are so unique, very little-known outside of Japan.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The exhibition upstairs features rarely seen footages of such rituals, and you also have a chance to see a set of ceremonial carpentry tools and ritual garment.
The link between nature and spirituality can be best illustrated in the work of ‘Dōmiya daiku’ (temple and shrine carpenters) because their role directly connects the material world to the spiritual realm.
Full-Scale Japanese Tea House and Interactive Experience
Photo: Urban Adventurer
In contrast to the heavy ‘dōmiya’ forms, ‘sukiya daiku’ (teahouse carpentry) is known for its light and elegant aesthetics.
Although, barely visible, nails – in fact – are used in teahouses. Carpenters use over 100 different types of nails. Each small nail is made by hand by hammering hot iron and blackened by smoking. The nails serve a variety of purposes, such as hanging utensils or flowers to dry.
Visitors to the exhibition can discover a full-scale construction of the Sa-an tea house. This teahouse perfectly demonstrates the sophisticated and elaborated techniques ‘sukiya daiku’ reach such high level of delicate intricacy by.
That teahouse was originally constructed in Kyoto’s Zen temple Daitoku-ji and today is considered as an ‘Important Cultural Property’ of Japan.
Structural model of Sa-an Teahouse
Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum
Image in courtesy of Japan House London
Anime lovers might recognise the structure from the beloved anime series: ‘Kimetsu no Yaiba’ (‘Demon Slayer’).
Intricate Latticework: ‘Kumiko’
Photo: Urban Adventurer
‘Kumiko’ refers to the intricate latticework used in Japanese architectural fittings, decorative transoms, freestandings and movable partition screens.
The origin dates back to the 12th – 14th centuries and passed through generations.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The process involves crafting thin, delicate pieces of wood and assembling them in various geometric patterns, often without glue. Craftsmen use advanced folding techniques that allow the thin wood pieces to hold each other firmly without any glue.
In this way, the artist can create beautiful intricate landscapes and other patterns.
Interesting Facts
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Did you know that different types of trees can be identified through their smell? Make sure you visit the glass cube upstairs to have the opportunity to experience the most different types of native Japanese trees by smell.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Another interesting fact is that in the past design plans were not drawn on paper but boards of wood. That’s because paper can be easily damaged or worn out over time, whereas wooden board lasts much longer.
The interactive section of the exhibition gives hands-on experience of ’kigumi’ structures. Upstairs at the windows, you will find wooden elements you can play with puzzling them together.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Exhibition Curator Simon Wright, Director of Programming at Japan House, says:
“Carpentry is essential to everyday life in Japan, even today, and is celebrated both within the country and beyond for its careful craftsmanship. Centuries of treating the raw materials of Japan’s forests with respect has resulted in deep relationships between humans and trees. Environmentalism and sustainability are concepts that have been practiced by Japan’s carpenters for hundreds of years.”
Associate Director and Chief Curator, Nishiyama Marcelo, at the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum, has curated and designed the exhibition.
Daiku culture has been in danger of disappearing since the second half of the 20th century. Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum has been collecting carpentry tools for over 40 years to preserve this incredible cultural heritage that has shaped Japanese culture.
Events and Workshops
Photo: Urban Adventurer
During the exhibition, Japan House London is hosting various special events, talks, demonstrations, and workshops.
Director of Programming, Simon Wright
Photo: Urban Adventurer
For example, you can make your Kumiko latticework coaster (places are very limited!), your own chopsticks or go for guided exhibition tour with curator Nishiyama Marcelo or Director of Programming, Simon Wright.
Japan House London Shop
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Japan House London’s shop has a separate section dedicated to exhibition related items.
Books, handmade wooden puzzles, wooden coasters, items from Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum and much more available to purchase.
Gin Speciality
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Guests to the press preview had the unique opportunity to taste a Gin made for the special occasion. It’s a very unique spirit with strong but very pleasant woody taste.
Curator Nishiyama Marcelo informed me that the Gin will most likely become available at Japan House London from April next year.
NOTE: The gallery is closed on the 26th March from 5:30pm
Tickets
Admission is FREE | Booking recommended. You can book a time slot on Japan House London’s official website.
Ready for your next adventure? New K-pop store opened in Piccadilly. 놀이터 Playground includes a shop, Korean photo booth, K Sing karaoke, K-beauty and treatment and much more!
🌸 Sakura Season is here 🌸 [BLOG POST IN BIO] @Tombo Japanese Café just introduced their Sakura Season Specials The Sakura Season Specials includes 🌸Sakura Mont Blanc Sundae 🌸Sakura Matcha Latte 🌸Sakura Mochi 🌸Sakura Soft Serve in a Cone 📍 29 Thurloe Pl, South Kensington, London SW7 2HQ #sakuraseason#sakuraseason2025#sakura#japanesefood#springvibes#cherryblossom#CapCut
Sakura Season has arrived in London a bit early this year. Tombo Japanese Café – known for their Sanrio collaboration and cutest dessert creations – just introduced their Sakura Season Specials on their Instagram.
They introduced a very special Japanese dessert, called ‘Japanese Mont Blanc’ last November. ‘Mont Blanc’ is a super popular dessert in Japan (and just as Instagrammable). It is cream and chestnut purée which they press through a machine with small holes that makes it a spaghetti-like swirl that they use to garnish ice cream or cake.
Now, that Cherry Blossom Season is on the corner, they added a Sakura flavour to their existing flavours: matcha and purple potato.
The Sakura Season Specials consist of Sakura Mont Blanc Sundae, Sakura Matcha Latte, Sakura Mochi, and Sakura Soft Serve in a Cone.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Sakura Mont Blanc Sundae is a pretty-in-pink dessert (almost) too pretty to eat. It’s matcha or Sakura soft serve (your choice) lying on a crispy rice cereal bed, served with freshly pressed Sakura chestnut purée, topped with tricolour mochi on a skewer.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Sakura Matcha Latte is a picturesque pink and green ice latte, served with pink, white and green mochi on a skewer. Not too sweet, just perfect.
Sakura mochi is a pretty pink sweet rice cake, filled with red bean paste, wrapped in a pickled cherry blossom leaf.
Sakura Soft Serve is a perfect dessert on the go between two museums.
Ready for your next adventure? Did you know that there is a cat-themed Japanese restaurantin London? Nécco London is a cute intimate Japanese restaurant near Farringdon station, serving authentic Japanese food and drinks with a feline twist.
Are you a fan of Japanese cuisine and adore cats? This intimate Japanese restaurant in the heart of Exmouth Market have successfully brought the two together.
We are confident to say, Nécco is the cutest cat-themed Japanese restaurant in London.
Located half way between Farringdon and Angel station, Nécco is serving authentic Japanese food and drink with a twist.
The word ‘neko’ means ‘cat’ in Japanese language, and if you love cats, Nécco London is definitely a place to be.
The walls are covered with the cutest cat murals, providing the perfect background for your cute selfies.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The menus are illustrated with adorable cat drawings, and they have vegan, gluten free and Halal options available.
The food menu includes delicious starters (there’s also a separate vegan starter menu), including dumplings, spring rolls and crispy Karage chicken, a wide selection of sushi, Ramen, Donburi, curry and more.
They even have Temaki hand-roll (sushi but wrapped in seaweed in a way to make a cone shape) and vegan sushi tacos.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
We tried the Miso Ramen, Salmon Nigiri, Avocado Maki and Avocado & Cucumber Uramaki.
The Ramen was served with seaweed, broccoli, edamame, corn, carrots and peeled cherry tomatoes. It was rich and flavourful.
The sushi was beautifully presented and full of flavour.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
On their drink menu you will find a wide range of premium sake, beer, wine, Shochu, Japanese Whisky, cocktails, mocktails, hot and cold drinks and more.
We tried the ‘Namicolada’ that was served in a mini fish bowl shaped glass placed on an ice bed. ‘Namicolada’ is a sweet and satisfying blend of Malibu, Vermouth, Oat milk, Pineapple juice & Nata de coco, and it was served with a cute little parasol.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Nécco Happy Hour is from 5pm – 7pm daily and they have all day cocktail deals, too.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
They have the cutest dessert menu, so we couldn’t resist ordering something.
We chose the ‘Sakura Mochi’ which was a cherry blossom flavoured mochi filled with sweet red bean paste, wrapped in a leaf.
Nécco London Classes and Tasting Events
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Nécco London regularly host sushi making and dumpling making classes where you have the chance to learn all the ins and outs of sushi making from Nécco’s skilled sushi chef as well as the secrets of authentic Japanese dumpling making and different folding techniques.
During the Sake tasting event, you will have the opportunity to learn more about Japanese Sake, including ingredients, production, the different styles, and serving temperatures by an experienced Sake educator, Keiko Urakawa.
Learn more about the events and make an enquiry here.
Nécco London also offer Japanese catering for parties and office catering as well as private events.
Novelty Cakes
Fully customisable Japanese-style novelty cakes are also available to order.
Whether you’re a Studio Ghibli fan, a huge cat lover, a fan of everything kawaii or just want a rich and delicious Matcha cake, Nécco is a place to go. Just tell them what shape, colour, flavour and decoration you want, and they will make the cake of your dreams.
Fell in love with the plates, cute side bowls and stylish porcelain bowls during your visit?
You can order them directly from Nécco London’s official website.
Nécco London is a cute and cosy hidden gem in the heart of London combining authentic Japanese food and drink with their deep devotion to cats.
If you’re a cat lover or just looking for an intimate relaxing (and affordable) place to eat with your significant other or bestie, make sure you add Nécco London to your list.
Ready for your next adventure? If you’re a dog person, London’s first Shiba Inu café is definitely a place to visit in the heart of Fitzrovia. Meet the cutest Shiba Inu puppies, play with them and make memories.
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
