Sébastien Duval

Tag: Tokyo

  • Winter In Japan

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    Sébastien Duval
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    Winter is wonderful in Japan; probably my favourite season here! It’s perfect for slow & rejuvenating baths in hot springs surrounded by snowy mountains, gathering with friends (+ random encounters) at seasonal bars, photos with huge statues at e.g. Sapporo Snow Festival, frozen lakes, the gravel-like sound of waves in partially-frozen seas… And for all…

  • Vegan Japan Tour — Guiding Soon

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    Sébastien Duval
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    From 16 February to 01 March 2025, I’ll guide a vegan group across Japan. We’ll explore the Japanese countryside (Ibaraki, Kochi, Wakayama prefectures) beyond the usual current & past capitals (Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara). I’m excited to make Japan travel more inclusive, to connect Japanese producers to world gourmets (including an influencer), and to share mind-blowing…

  • Expo 2025 World Cuisines — Everywhere In Japan!

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    Sébastien Duval
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    Today, world cuisines of 70 countries appeared at Kura Sushi chain restaurants all over Japan as part of a 2025 World Expo campaign. For practical reasons, each restaurant only features one world cuisine in addition to the standard menu. You’d currently have to eat at 70 restaurants to taste all the dishes… Still, that’s great…

  • Male Geisha Met In Tokyo

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    Sébastien Duval
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    The flurry of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) discussions following the start of the 2025 Trump presidency reminded me of my most surprising encounter in 20 years in Japan: a male geisha! Respect to him for overcoming stringent Japanese traditions, respect to his community for making it happen, and respect to Tricolage travel agency for…

  • Happo-en — Historic Venue Reimagined For Modern Events

    Happo-en — Historic Venue Reimagined For Modern Events

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    Sébastien Duval
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    I just attended the 2025 Renewal Plan Briefing Session of Happo-en, a renowned Japanese venue with a rich history dating back over four centuries as a garden and restaurant. Getting ready for its centennial anniversary in 2043, Happo-en is embarking on a transformative renovation to remain a premier destination for weddings, MICE events, and corporate…