Tag Archives: Japan culture

Event

Higedan Pop-Up Is Live at 313@Somerset — Stardust Out Now

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The Official Hige Dandism pop-up at 313@Somerset opened today and runs through 23 August 2026 — nine days to swing by Orchard Road and grab exclusive merch from one of Japan’s biggest rock acts. As we covered when the concert was announced, Higedan’s 21 August show at The Star Theatre sold out in record time. The pop-up is the alternative experience for fans who missed out on tickets — and this week the band also dropped a brand-new single, “Stardust,” timed to the Asia tour.

Official Hige Dandism performing in the Stardust official music video
Image courtesy of Official Hige Dandism

What’s at the Higedan Pop-Up at 313@Somerset

The pop-up is part of the OFFICIAL HIGE DANDISM 2026 ASIA POP-UP, which spans Seoul, Singapore, Taipei and Bangkok. The Singapore leg runs 15–23 August at 313@Somerset Shopping Mall on Orchard Road. Entry is free and open to walk-ins.

Alongside the usual Asia Tour merch line — including a Hawaiian shirt (SGD 80), a band towel (SGD 30), a rubberband wristlet (SGD 12), a passport case (SGD 25) and a city-exclusive keyholder (SGD 13) — there are three Singapore City Exclusive items you won’t find at any other tour stop:

  • Singapore Edition T-Shirt — SGD 65
  • Singapore Edition Poster — SGD 14
  • Singapore Edition LED Magnet — SGD 19

From 1 August to 30 September, the store also features an exclusive OFFICIAL HIGE DANDISM × PHOTOISM collaboration photo frame — a city-specific keepsake available only at each Asia tour location. The pop-up additionally stocks OFFICIAL HIGE DANDISM LIVE at STADIUM 2025 on DVD, Blu-ray and CD (released 15 July 2026), so there’s something to take home whether or not you’re a merch collector.

Stock is limited. Singapore City Exclusives won’t be restocked, so earlier in the run is better.

Official Hige Dandism Asia Tour 2026 merchandise catalog with SGD prices including T-shirts, Hawaiian shirt, towel and accessories
Image courtesy of Official Hige Dandism

New Single “Stardust” — Watch the Official Video

Timed to the Asia tour, Higedan released their latest single “Stardust” (スターダスト) with a cinematic official music video. If you came to the band through their anime tie-ins — “Cry Baby” for Tokyo Revengers, “Mixed Nuts” for SPY x FAMILY, or “Make Me Wonder” for The Darwin Incident — Stardust is their next chapter and worth adding to your playlist before the 21 August show.

Official髭男dism — スターダスト [Official Video] via Official髭男dism on YouTube

Pop-Up Logistics: 313@Somerset, 15–23 August

“We are incredibly excited to bring our music to Singapore for the first time,” the band said in their press statement ahead of the Singapore leg. “Singapore holds a special place in our hearts, and we can’t wait to connect with our fans there.”

The 313@Somerset pop-up is open now and runs through 23 August 2026. No tickets needed — just head to the mall on Orchard Road. The Star Theatre concert on 21 August is fully sold out and there is no resale or waitlist confirmed. Check the official Singapore event page for any updates on store hours. Browse our other Singapore events this August for more things happening around the city.

Manga Anime

Tenkaichi Anime Confirmed for April 2027 — Cast Revealed

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If you’ve ever wanted to see Miyamoto Musashi, Honda Tadakatsu, and a whole roster of Japan’s greatest historical fighters settle things once and for all in an anime — this one’s for you. Tenkaichi: The Greatest Warrior Under the Rising Sun (テンカイチ 日本最強武芸者決定戦) is officially getting a TV anime, premiering in April 2027, and the first teaser PV and cast are out now.

Tenkaichi anime — cast key visual showing all fighters facing off
Image courtesy of Kodansha / Tenkaichi: The Greatest Warrior Under the Rising Sun Production Committee

What Is Tenkaichi?

The manga, written by Yōsuke Nakamaru and illustrated by Kyōtarō Azuma, launched in Kodansha’s Monthly Young Magazine in January 2021 and has been running ever since — 14 volumes in as of August 2026. The premise is deliciously simple: the year is 1600, Oda Nobunaga has unified Japan and is getting old, and rather than naming an heir, he announces a tournament. Whoever brings him the strongest warrior in the land wins control of the country.

The result is a single-elimination martial arts bracket — anything goes, death is on the table — pitting Japan’s legendary fighters against each other in match-ups that history never gave us. First up: undefeated prodigy Miyamoto Musashi (sponsored by the Chōsokabe clan) versus peerless spear-wielder Honda Tadakatsu (sponsored by Tokugawa Ieyasu). If you love Vinland Saga or Rurouni Kenshin, Tenkaichi occupies a similar space: real historical figures, deeply fictional fights, spectacular violence. The manga is available in English on Kodansha’s K Manga platform if you want to start reading before April 2027 rolls around.

The Warriors Assemble — Cast and Staff

The teaser PV dropped on August 13, 2026 alongside the key visual and the first cast reveals, as reported by Anime News Network. Studio Fugaku is producing the animation with Masashi Abe directing, Kazuharu Sato handling series composition, and Hayato Matsuo composing the music. Character designs are by Ryōji Nakamori.

The three cast members announced so far:

  • Miyamoto Musashi — voiced by Gen Sato
  • Honda Tadakatsu — voiced by Kenichiro Matsuda
  • Oda Nobunaga — voiced by Kenyu Horiuchi
Tenkaichi anime — Miyamoto Musashi official character design
Image courtesy of Kodansha / Tenkaichi: The Greatest Warrior Under the Rising Sun Production Committee

Watch the Teaser PV

Official Teaser PV — via TVアニメ『テンカイチ』公式 on YouTube
Tenkaichi anime teaser PV — Miyamoto Musashi with 2027.04 broadcast announcement
Image courtesy of Kodansha / Tenkaichi: The Greatest Warrior Under the Rising Sun Production Committee

The teaser is largely mood and atmosphere — Nobunaga declaring the tournament, brief glimpses of the combatants, and enough of Musashi’s wooden-sword style to get your blood pumping. It establishes that this is going to be a brutal, high-stakes affair.

Read the Manga Before April 2027

14 volumes is a manageable catch-up — and volume 14 ships on August 20, so there’s never been a better moment to dive in. Tenkaichi is published in English digitally on K Manga, Kodansha’s official digital platform, which Singapore readers can access. If you enjoy historical action manga in the vein of Vagabond or the bonkers spectacle of Record of Ragnarok, Tenkaichi sits somewhere in between: historically grounded character identities with full creative licence on the fights. Check out more manga and anime news on GameTrader.

When and Where to Watch

The anime premieres in April 2027 in Japan. Streaming rights for Singapore and the broader Southeast Asia region have not been announced yet — watch the official Tenkaichi anime website for updates. Given Kodansha’s existing relationships with Crunchyroll for other titles, an international simulcast is possible, but nothing is confirmed. We’ll update when streaming details land.

Manga Anime

HUNTER×HUNTER × Gindako 2nd Collab: Kurapika and the Phantom Troupe Arrive 18 August

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The hunt isn’t over at Tsukiji Gindako. Japan’s beloved takoyaki chain is teaming up with HUNTER×HUNTER for a second collaboration, and this time it goes deeper — covering the Heaven’s Arena arc all the way through the Phantom Troupe arc. Running from 18 August through 17 November 2026, the collab brings Kurapika, Chrollo, Machi, Uvogin, and the full Phantom Troupe crew to Gindako locations across Japan, alongside returning fan favourites Gon and Killua.

HUNTER×HUNTER × Gindako 2nd collaboration key visual featuring chibi Gon, Killua, Kurapika and Phantom Troupe characters
HUNTER×HUNTER × Tsukiji Gindako 2nd Collab key visual — 18 August to 17 November 2026. (© P1998-2026 © V·N·M)

A Bigger Collab Than the First

Where the June 2026 debut collab focused on the Gon and Killua’s early journey, this second wave expands the cast significantly. The new collab artwork features chibi-style illustrations of the characters in formal attire — a delightfully unexpected styling choice that gives even the Phantom Troupe an oddly endearing charm. The Heaven’s Arena arc means Kurapika’s Nen abilities get their moment in the spotlight, while the Phantom Troupe arc brings Chrollo Lucilfer and his crew front and centre.

Collab Menu and Items

Hunter x Hunter Gindako danran pack 24-piece box with collab artwork
The Danran Pack (24 pcs) comes in a special collab box — and includes a Phantom Troupe clear file.

The full collab lineup includes:

  • Collab Takoyaki (8 pcs) — standard octopus takoyaki in a special HUNTER×HUNTER sleeve, paired with an exclusive collab card
  • Danran Pack (24 pcs) — the large shareable box dressed in HUNTER×HUNTER collab artwork, and comes with a Phantom Troupe clear file featuring Machi, Chrollo, and Uvogin
  • Croissant Taiyaki Box (6 pcs) — Gindako’s croissant taiyaki in collab packaging
  • Special Drink Set — the standout item of the collab (see below)

The Star Item: Water Divination Card

Hunter x Hunter Gindako special drink set showing paper cup, sticker and Water Divination Card
The Special Drink Set includes the original paper cup, a collab sticker, and the Water Divination Card (水見式カード) that reveals your Nen type when submerged in water.

The Special Drink Set is the collab’s headline item for HxH fans. Priced at ¥580 (take-out) or ¥626–638 (eat-in), it bundles a Gindako drink in an original HUNTER×HUNTER paper cup, a collab sticker — and most excitingly, a 水見式カード (Water Divination Card).

True to the series’ lore, the card reveals your Nen type when you submerge it in water. It’s a small detail, but one that captures exactly why the Gindako × HxH partnership works so well: the team clearly cares about the source material, not just slapping logos on packaging.

Hunter x Hunter Gindako collab chibi character lineup showing all characters in formal attire
The full chibi character lineup in formal attire — a charming styling choice across all collab items.

Bonus Stamps and Seasonal Specials

Gindako’s stamp card holders also get collab-exclusive mini clear files as bonus gifts. A special stamp reward is planned for 1 September, with an additional seasonal special on 1 November — meaning regular visitors have extra incentive to come back across the three-month run.

Hunter x Hunter Gindako Phantom Troupe clear file featuring Machi, Chrollo and Uvogin
The Danran Pack’s bonus Phantom Troupe clear file — featuring Machi, Chrollo Lucilfer, and Uvogin.
「築地銀だこ」×「HUNTER×HUNTER」コラボ第2弾 — Official announcement video (Tsukiji Gindako official channel)

For Singapore Fans

This is a Japan-only collab — Tsukiji Gindako doesn’t have Singapore branches. For local HxH fans, your options are picking up items during a trip to Japan between August and November, or keeping an eye on Japanese import shops and proxy services. Given how quickly the first collab’s merchandise moved, the Danran Pack (with its clear file) and the Water Divination Card sets are the ones to prioritise if you’re making the trip.

Source: Anime!Anime! (Japanese), 11 August 2026. © P1998-2026 © V·N·M. This story has not yet appeared in English-language media at time of publication.

News, Singapore Gaming Scene

Hong Kong Takes WCS 2026 Gold — and Summer Cosplay Summits Are Over

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Hong Kong’s cosplay duo Ar Lu and Ronnie Kui left Nagoya’s Aichi Arts Center on 2 August 2026 as the World Cosplay Summit’s newest grand champions — and as something more: the final winners ever to claim the title in summer. In a historic announcement made on the same night, WCS organisers confirmed the event will permanently move from August to November starting 2027, ending a summer tradition that has defined the global cosplay calendar for over two decades.

Team Hong Kong performing their Monster Hunter battle scene at World Cosplay Summit 2026 in Nagoya
Image courtesy of World Cosplay Summit

Monster Hunter Meets Lion Rock — The Winning Performance

Team Hong Kong’s entry was a love letter to Monster Hunter. Ronnie took the stage in meticulously handcrafted Zinogre armour — gleaming teal-and-gold scales with razor-edged pauldrons — while Ar Lu portrayed his Palico companion, a bipedal Felyne kitted out in full adventurer gear. Their act depicted a high-stakes battle against an Elder Dragon, with Hong Kong’s iconic Lion Rock projected dramatically behind them as a backdrop. As each beat of the choreography landed, the Aichi Arts Center crowd erupted.

The pair also took home the WCS Alumni Award for best performance among returning past competitors — a double podium sweep that left little doubt about who deserved the top spot.

“Mum, I did it! Hong Kong’s the greatest of all time!” declared Ar Lu in her acceptance speech. Ronnie, speaking to South China Morning Post, admitted it was surreal: “It still felt like a dream when they announced the champions.”

It was Hong Kong’s first-ever WCS grand championship, made sweeter by the fact that the city’s local qualifying event had been dormant since 2022 until Ani-Com & Games HK revived it last year, giving Ar Lu and Ronnie the path to Nagoya they needed.

Ar Lu and Ronnie Kui preparing their Monster Hunter costumes backstage at World Cosplay Summit 2026
Image courtesy of World Cosplay Summit
WORLD COSPLAY CHAMPIONSHIP 2026 — via コスサミ (World Cosplay Summit) on YouTube

Full Podium — 40+ Countries, Three Outstanding Acts

This year’s WCS drew more than 40 countries and regions to Nagoya — a record field — each pair bringing months of handcrafted work to a single high-pressure performance slot. The top three:

  • 🥇 1st — Hong Kong: Ar Lu & Ronnie Kui, Monster Hunter (Zinogre Hunter + Palico Felyne)
  • 🥈 2nd — Canada: Tokyo Aliens manga cosplay
  • 🥉 3rd — Brazil: Tales of Arise game cosplay

The choice of Monster Hunter feels especially resonant right now. Monster Hunter Wilds broke Steam records on its 2025 release and has sparked a wave of MH-inspired cosplay across Asia — Hong Kong’s win on the biggest cosplay stage in the world underlines just how deeply the franchise has embedded itself in the craft.

Team Hong Kong's Zinogre Hunter and Palico Felyne costumes at official World Cosplay Summit 2026 photo shoot
Image courtesy of World Cosplay Summit

Why WCS Is Leaving August Behind

The shift to November is not cosmetic. Nagoya’s summer heat has worsened sharply in recent years, with temperatures hitting 40°C / 104°F in and around the outdoor event spaces this year — punishing conditions for cosplayers wearing dense foam-and-resin armour under direct sunlight. WCS organisers cited the climate reality as the primary driver, describing 2026 as “the last time WCS will be held in August due to intense summer heat in Nagoya.”

The 2027 edition is currently slated for November 12–14 in Nagoya. Exact venues have not yet been confirmed, but November falls squarely in Japan’s peak autumn season — cooler, drier, and dramatically more comfortable for the hundreds of thousands of visitors who fill Nagoya’s streets during WCS week.

Competitors from multiple countries celebrating on stage at the World Cosplay Summit 2026 championship ceremony in Nagoya
Image courtesy of World Cosplay Summit

What It Means for Singapore and SEA Cosplayers

Singapore has long sent representatives to WCS, and our cosplay scene watches the event closely — it is, in effect, the world championship of the craft. For anyone planning to compete or make the trip to Nagoya in 2027, here is what changes:

  • Local qualifying timelines will shift — if your national selection runs in spring or early summer, expect it to move later to align with a November final
  • November in Nagoya means roughly 12–18°C — a dramatic improvement over the 38–40°C conditions that greeted this year’s competitors and spectators
  • Japan in autumn coincides with peak momiji (maple foliage) season in Aichi, making the trip doubly worthwhile

The full 2027 WCS schedule — including qualifying structures for each country — has not yet been announced. Watch the official WCS website for updates as the new format takes shape. In the meantime, congratulations to Ar Lu and Ronnie Kui: Hong Kong’s finest, and the last summer champions in World Cosplay Summit history. For more cosplay and community events on the GameTrader radar, check our events section.

Event

Hige Dandism in Singapore: Concert + Pop-Up at 313@Somerset

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If you’ve watched Tokyo Revengers, Spy x Family, or Blue Box, you already know Official Hige Dandism — even if you didn’t realise it. The Japanese pop-rock quartet behind some of the biggest anime opening themes of the last few years is in Singapore this August, and there’s still a way to be part of the action even if the concert is sold out.

Concert at The Star Theatre — 21 August, 8PM

Official Hige Dandism Asia Tour 2026 Singapore concert poster at The Star Theatre
Image courtesy of Official Hige Dandism / SOZO

OFFICIAL HIGE DANDISM ASIA TOUR 2026 comes to The Star Theatre (1 Vista Exchange Green, Singapore 138617) on Friday, 21 August 2026. Doors open at 7:00 PM, show starts at 8:00 PM. The one-night-only showcase is presented by SOZO, with tickets originally priced from S$98 (CAT 7) to S$288 (CAT 1).

All tickets are now sold out — the official site confirmed the full sell-out with a note thanking fans for the support. If you’re still hoping to attend, secondary platforms are your best bet; demand has been high across the region.

Official Hige Dandism Asia Tour 2026 Singapore seating chart and ticket price categories for The Star Theatre
Image courtesy of Official Hige Dandism / SOZO

Ticket holders can also grab the Asia Tour 2026 concert merchandise — the range includes a Singapore City Exclusive Keyholder (S$13), Asia Tour T-Shirts in off-white or black (S$59 each), a Hawaiian Shirt (S$80), a towel (S$30), a rubberband (S$12) and a passport case (S$25). Pre-orders run through the official concert-goods store until 19 August at higedansgp26shop.sozolive.asia, with walk-in sales at The Star Theatre on show day.

Official Hige Dandism Asia Tour 2026 concert merchandise catalogue with Singapore prices
Image courtesy of Official Hige Dandism / SOZO

Still Open: Pop-Up at 313@Somerset, 15–23 August

The Official Hige Dandism 2026 Asia Pop-Up at 313@Somerset runs from 15 to 23 August 2026 and is open to everyone — no ticket required. Its lineup is separate from the concert merchandise: the store carries 20 specially curated items, headlined by a set of Singapore City Exclusives you won’t find at the tour’s other pop-up cities:

  • Singapore City Exclusive LED Magnet
  • Singapore City Exclusive T-Shirt
  • Singapore City Exclusive Poster

Beyond the city exclusives, the pop-up stocks LP coasters inspired by the band’s album artwork, random keychains, bandanas, tote bags, and live concert posters. Fans can also pick up past albums and special releases, including the recently released Official Hige Dandism LIVE at STADIUM 2025 on DVD, Blu-ray and CD. Running alongside the store is an Official Hige Dandism × PHOTOISM photo-booth collaboration, live from 1 August to 30 September 2026.

The Anime Connection — Why Singapore Fans Know This Band

Official Hige Dandism (正式名称: Official髭男dism) have quietly racked up more anime soundtrack credits than most J-rock acts of their generation. If any of these sound familiar, that’s them:

  • “Cry Baby” — opening theme of Tokyo Revengers Season 1 (2021)
  • “Mixed Nuts” — opening theme of Spy x Family (2022)
  • “Same Blue” — opening theme of Blue Box (2024)

Beyond anime, their single “Pretender” helped introduce the band to listeners across Southeast Asia, and their genre-blending sound — pop, rock, jazz, and soul in the same breath — has earned them a cross-generational fanbase with over 10 billion cumulative streams globally.

OFFICIAL HIGE DANDISM — MIXED NUTS (Spy x Family OP) via Official髭男dism on YouTube
Official髭男dism — Cry Baby (Tokyo Revengers OP) via Official髭男dism on YouTube

The pop-up at 313@Somerset is worth a visit even if you couldn’t get concert tickets — Singapore-exclusive merch from a sold-out Japan culture show doesn’t come around often. For more Singapore events, keep it locked to GameTrader.

Game News, Shop and Merchandise

Pokémon x Baskin-Robbins Japan: 31 Poké Summer Campaign Is Live

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Pokémon’s 30th anniversary is still going strong, and Japan’s Baskin-Robbins just turned up the sweetness. The annual 31 Poké Summer Campaign (31ポケ夏！キャンペーン) is now live at Baskin-Robbins Japan — and this year’s lineup celebrates three decades since Pokémon Red and Green first launched in 1996. For Singapore fans making the Japan trip this August school holidays, this one is a worthy side-quest.

What Is the 31 Poké Summer Campaign?

Running throughout August 1–31, 2026 at B-R サーティワン locations nationwide in Japan, the 31 Poké Summer Campaign is an annual collaboration between Baskin-Robbins Japan and The Pokémon Company. Each year it draws long queues, and the 2026 edition makes it the biggest yet: the 30th anniversary of Pokémon Red and Green means Kanto’s original starter Pokémon — Bulbasaur, Charmander and Squirtle — take centre stage, joined by Pikachu, Eevee, Ditto, Slowpoke, and starter Pokémon from all nine main-series regions.

Check out more Pokémon news on GameTrader as we head into a packed August for the franchise.

The Signature New Flavour: Pikachu’s Volt Tackle

The star of the 2026 lineup is Pikachu’s Volt Tackle Pine Squash (ピカチュウのでんきショック！パインスカッシュ), priced at ¥420 per scoop. It’s a pineapple-and-cider sorbet laced with popping candy — 31% more than Baskin-Robbins Japan’s own popular Popping Shower flavour — so it fizzes and crackles on your tongue like a miniature Electric-type attack. It’s one of those flavours that sounds gimmicky on paper but reportedly delivers.

Joining it is the Ditto Crush Soda (メタモンクラッシュソーダ) at ¥760: grape and pineapple soda poured over crushed ice with a Ditto stirrer stick and grape gelatin. Mix the red and blue layers until they bleed into purple, and you’ve got a drink that transforms in real time — just like its namesake. A scoop of your choice flavour can be added on top.

Baskin-Robbins Japan Pokémon 2026 ice cream cone with Pikachu-themed decoration
Image courtesy of The Pokémon Company and Baskin-Robbins Japan

Poké Ball Sundae, Double Cups, and All Nine Regions

The most coveted item this year is the Poké Ball Sundae (モンスターボールサンデー) at ¥820. It’s a scoop of any flavour topped with Pikachu-shaped chocolate whipped cream, sprinkles, and served inside a reusable Poké Ball container — the kind you’ll want to keep. The spoon is a random one of three Kanto starters (Bulbasaur, Charmander or Squirtle). Catch: it’s only available through 9 August and is limited to three cups per group, so plan ahead if you’re in Japan early this month.

The Pokémon Double Cup (ポケモンダブルカップ, from ¥510) lets you pick two scoops, and the cups are decorated with starter Pokémon from all nine main-series regions — Kanto to Paldea. For group orders, the Summer Special Set (from ¥3,520) packs nine scoops with stainless steel Pikachu and Eevee spoons; an upgraded version includes nine plastic starter spoons as well.

Pokémon Variety Box 6 Flavors at Baskin-Robbins Japan 2026 featuring Pikachu and Slowpoke
Image courtesy of The Pokémon Company and Baskin-Robbins Japan

Pokémon Ice Cream Cakes for the 30th Anniversary

Returning for another summer are the Pokémon face-shaped ice cream cakes, available to pre-order. The Pikachu Ice Cream Cake (¥3,800) is a spot-on sculpted Pikachu head in yellow fondant and chocolate, filled with Popping Shower and strawberry ice cream. There’s also an Eevee Ice Cream Cake for fans of the Evolution Pokémon, filled with caramel ribbon and milk chocolate — arguably the more sophisticated option of the two.

Pikachu face-shaped ice cream cake at Baskin-Robbins Japan 31 Poké Summer 2026
Image courtesy of The Pokémon Company and Baskin-Robbins Japan

Singapore Fans: Plan That Japan Trip

The 31 Poké Summer Campaign is Japan-exclusive — B-R Japan is a separate franchise from Baskin-Robbins outlets here in Singapore, and none of these Pokémon products will appear at local stores. However, August is school-holiday season and one of the most popular months for Singapore families to visit Japan. Baskin-Robbins branches are everywhere in Japan’s major cities (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka), so picking up a Poké Ball Sundae or a Ditto Crush Soda is an easy Japan trip addition.

The Pokémon Variety Boxes — available in 4, 6, 8, and 12-scoop configurations in Pokémon-branded boxes — also make decent takeaway gifts if you’re heading back to Singapore after your trip, though ice cream logistics on a flight are naturally your own adventure.

The 31 Poké Summer Campaign runs August 1–31, 2026 at participating Baskin-Robbins Japan stores nationwide. Full product details and a store locator are available on the official site (Japanese). Via SoraNews24 and Game Watch (Japanese).

News, Shop and Merchandise

BEAMS x The Super Mario Galaxy Movie Collection Is Out Now in Japan

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If you caught The Super Mario Galaxy Movie in Singapore cinemas earlier this year and came out wishing you could take a piece of it home, Japanese fashion label BEAMS just answered that call. The long-teased collaboration between BEAMS and Nintendo’s blockbuster sequel officially went on sale in Japan today, 1 August 2026, and the nine-piece collection is exactly the kind of loud, character-forward streetwear that BEAMS does best.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie – Official Trailer — via Nintendo of America on YouTube

What BEAMS Brought to the Galaxy

The collection takes the vibrant visual language of the Nintendo/Illumination film and runs it through BEAMS’ distinctly Tokyo-casual design sensibility. The standout piece is the all-over print open-collar short-sleeve shirt (¥13,200), which covers every inch of fabric with Coins, Fire Flowers, Super Mushrooms and Question Blocks in a pattern that somehow manages to feel wearable rather than overwhelming. It comes in white and navy, and there is a matching all-over print tote bag (¥7,700) in the same two colour options if you want to commit fully to the look.

BEAMS x The Super Mario Galaxy Movie — open-collar shirts, character tees and Bowser pieces
Image courtesy of BEAMS / Nintendo

The Bowser items deserve their own spotlight. The Bowser T-Shirt (¥7,920) and matching Bowser Sweatshirt (¥13,200) go full rock-poster with a massive KOOPA graphic across the chest — the kind of design that works for a casual weekend but also reads clearly enough that fellow fans will clock it immediately. Both come in white and black (fade black for the sweatshirt).

The Full Line-Up

BEAMS x The Super Mario Galaxy Movie — sweatshirts, long sleeve tees, tote bags and logo cap
Image courtesy of BEAMS / Nintendo

Here is everything in the collection with pricing in Japanese yen:

  • All-Over Print Open Collar Shirt — ¥13,200 (White, Navy, sizes S–XL)
  • Character T-Shirt — ¥7,920 (White, Grey, S–XL) — full cast graphic across the back
  • Bowser T-Shirt — ¥7,920 (White, Black, S–XL)
  • Logo T-Shirt — ¥7,920 (White, Black, S–XL) — clean movie logo treatment on the back
  • Character Sweatshirt — ¥12,100 (Grey, Black, S–XL) — character print with Yoshi detail on the sleeve
  • Bowser Sweatshirt — ¥13,200 (Fade Black, S–XL)
  • Long Sleeve T-Shirt — ¥12,100 (Navy, Black, S–XL) — cast storyboard strip running the full length of the sleeve
  • Logo Cap — ¥8,250 (Black, One Size)
  • All-Over Print Tote Bag — ¥7,700 (White, Navy)
BEAMS x The Super Mario Galaxy Movie long sleeve tee detail — BEAMS logo and character strip on sleeve
Image courtesy of BEAMS / Nintendo

Getting It to Singapore

The collection is Japan-exclusive for now and available through the BEAMS Online Store and BEAMS retail locations across Japan. There is no confirmation of a wider international release or a Singapore-specific retail drop at this stage.

Singapore fans who want to order will need to use a Japanese proxy shopping or forwarding service — these typically charge a service fee on top of the item price and shipping, so factor that in before hitting checkout on the pricier sweatshirts. Items are priced between ¥7,700 and ¥13,200, putting most pieces in the same ballpark as a mid-range streetwear purchase once shipping is added.

The movie itself crossed USD $1 billion at the global box office and had a strong run in Singapore cinemas this April, with Nintendo’s local site carrying full movie information. If you missed the Uniqlo UT collaboration from earlier in the year (which did land in Singapore stores), the BEAMS pieces occupy a slightly more premium, Japan-fashion-brand position — fewer pieces, more distinctive designs, and import-only for most of us.

For other Japan culture drops and Singapore pop-culture news, check our merchandise and shop coverage.

News

Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo Reopens 24 August 2026

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Japan’s largest Pokémon store has a confirmed comeback date: Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo, the iconic flagship location inside Sunshine City in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, will reopen on Monday, 24 August 2026 — five months after a tragic incident forced its indefinite closure. For Singapore fans who put this Ikebukuro landmark at the top of every Japan itinerary, the wait is nearly over.

A Tragic Closure: What Happened on 26 March

On 26 March 2026, a fatal stabbing occurred at Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo. A stalker entered the Sunshine City store and killed a female employee before taking his own life. The Pokémon Company immediately closed both Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo and the adjacent Pikachu Sweets by Pokémon Café out of respect and concern for staff and customers. Other Pokémon Centers across Japan and the official online store remained in operation throughout the closure.

Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo entrance featuring the iconic Poké Ball logo and Pokémon Legends: Z-A promotional display
Image courtesy of The Pokémon Company

This wasn’t just any store going dark. Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo is the largest Pokémon Center in the world, occupying the second floor of Sunshine City Alpa in Higashi-Ikebukuro and stocking more than 2,500 items — from limited-edition plush and stationery to exclusive regional products and trading card supplies. Its closure for five months has been keenly felt by Pokémon fans visiting Japan.

Confirmed: Reopening Monday, 24 August 2026

In an official announcement published on 27 July 2026, The Pokémon Company confirmed that both Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo and Pikachu Sweets by Pokémon Café will resume operations on Monday, 24 August 2026.

“We sincerely apologize for the concern and inconvenience caused during the temporary closure,” the company stated, with the goal of creating “an environment where customers can visit and shop with peace of mind.”

Key details for the reopening:

  • Partial renovations have been carried out during the closure period
  • Employee safety measures have been significantly strengthened
  • Temporary entry restrictions will be in effect after reopening — the specific admission method will be announced separately
  • No campaigns or events will be held at this location during August; expect the usual event schedule to resume from September onwards
  • The Pokémon Company noted the date “could still change depending on circumstances”

What’s Inside Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo

Pikachu Sweets by Pokémon Café official logo
Image courtesy of The Pokémon Company

For those visiting for the first time, Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo is far more than a souvenir shop. Alongside thousands of Pokémon products spanning plush toys, clothing, accessories, games, cards, and collectibles, the complex houses several dedicated zones:

  • Pikachu Sweets by Pokémon Café — Pokémon-themed desserts, drinks, and sweets
  • Pokémon Card Station — a dedicated area for Pokémon Trading Card Game products, booster packs, and singles
  • Pokémon GO Lab — a zone for Pokémon GO players with themed activities and exclusive merchandise
Pokémon Card Station logo
Image courtesy of The Pokémon Company

The store operates daily from 10:00 to 20:00, and is a three-minute walk from Higashi-Ikebukuro Station.

Inside Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo | Tokyo Store Tour 2026 — via Rokka Biyori | Explore Japan with Rokka on YouTube

Planning Your Visit from Singapore

The 24 August reopening lands squarely in Singapore’s August school holiday period, when Japan trips are among the most popular destinations for families and groups. If you are heading to Tokyo this August, Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo is finally back in play — but plan ahead for the entry restrictions that will be in effect. The admission process will be detailed by The Pokémon Company before opening day, so check the official store page and the Pokémon Center’s social channels before your visit.

For more Pokémon news and Japan gaming updates, stay tuned to GameTrader.SG.

Manga Anime, News

All 146 Kamen Rider Works Hit Prime Video Japan on 29 August

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The 55th anniversary of Kamen Rider is shaping up to be the franchise’s biggest year yet. From 29 August 2026, Amazon Prime members in Japan will be able to watch all 146 works in the Kamen Rider franchise for free — no extra charge, no gaps in the library.

146 Works, Zero Extra Charge

The announcement, confirmed via Japanese media including natalie.mu (Japanese) and Denfaminicogamer (Japanese), covers the full breadth of the franchise on Prime Video Japan:

  • Full TV series catalogue — the original 1971 Kamen Rider through the entire Heisei era (Kuuga through Zi-O) and all Reiwa-era entries including Zero-One, Saber, Revice, and beyond
  • V-Cinema films making their unlimited streaming debut — including Kamen Rider Faiz 20th: Paradise Regained and Kamen Rider OOO 10th: Core Medals of Resurrection
  • TV specials and streaming originals — such as Rider Time: Kamen Rider Ryuki

One small exception: Kamen Rider Geats joins the library on 1 September rather than the 29th. Everything else drops together.

The timing is deliberate. The archive unlock coincides with the Prime Video premiere of Kamen Rider Agito: Super Power War, the 55th anniversary theatrical film. Toei and TV Asahi ran a fan vote earlier this year to choose which Heisei-era Rider would receive the anniversary treatment; Agito — which achieved an average TV rating of 11.7%, the highest of any Heisei Rider — was the clear fans’ choice.

KAMEN RIDER MY-TH | Official Teaser — via TOEI TOKUSATSU WORLD OFFICIAL on YouTube

Kamen Rider My-Th: A Mouse Takes the Belt This September

Kamen Rider MY-TH full suit official photo
Image courtesy of Toei / TV Asahi

While the archive headlines are huge for long-time fans, the franchise’s future is also being mapped out. Kamen Rider My-Th — the next mainline series — is confirmed for September 2026 on TV Asahi, replacing Kamen Rider Zeztz in the Sunday-morning Super Hero Time block alongside Kakusei Hunter Omegahorn.

It marks a franchise first: the lead Rider’s motif is a mouse. Kamen Rider MY-TH himself is silver and blue, wearing the MY-TH Driver diagonally across the chest in a style reminiscent of Zeztz. Two rival Riders have also been revealed: the crimson, crystal-armoured Maou (with the Maou Driver worn at the waist) and the blue-accented Rid, who uses the MY-TH Driver augmented by a Hammer Bone Buckle.

The series follows Sora Otosumi, a butler-turned-hero who serves as “meister” to a young girl named Yuna Mizuki and transforms on her behalf. Toei’s tagline: “Awakening from a century’s slumber — people’s wishes endure, and a falling star becomes a MYTH.”

Kamen Rider Maou official suit photo — the crimson antagonist Rider
Image courtesy of Toei / TV Asahi

For Singapore Tokusatsu Fans

The 146-work streaming deal is confirmed for Prime Video Japan — not yet for other regions. Singapore fans who want to dig into the full archive now will need a Japanese Prime Video account.

That said, Toei has a consistent track record of bringing Kamen Rider to Prime Video globally. Kamen Rider Black Sun and Shin Kamen Rider both launched on Prime Video Singapore, and new Reiwa-era series have generally followed within months of their Japanese broadcast start. Based on that pattern, Kamen Rider My-Th is the one to watch: once it airs in Japan this September, a global Prime Video window is the most likely path — though no SEA date has been confirmed.

Whether you are coming back to the franchise after years away or discovering it for the first time, 29 August is shaping up to be a landmark date for tokusatsu. Keep an eye on GameTrader’s anime and manga coverage for updates as they land.