Bento Plus February 2025
Itadakimasu
Konnichiwa Minna, it is February, and because of Valentine’s Day many call it the month of love. Now love, as we all know, can be strange. In Japan, there are many anime and manga dealing with the strangeness of love, such as interspecies love where anime heroes may fall in love with a naga or a robot.
In Japan, saying ‘I love you’ is rare and can feel unusual. But there are more ways to prove love than to say it right? Love is action, like a small act of kindness by giving your mom a flower. Love is in the eye of the beholder.
We have interesting challenges this month which deals with love and our Light Novel of the month also deals with love. Have fun reading our February edition of Bento Plus!
Nippon Events and Festivals February 2025
February is not just the month of love and romance. It is quite eventful. Here are some events and festivals happening in the month of February.
February 3
Setsubun
Setsubun marks the day before the beginning of spring in Japan. Traditionally, people perform the ritual of mamemaki (bean scattering) to ward off evil spirits by throwing roasted soybeans while chanting, “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!” (“Demons out! Luck in!”). Many temples and shrines host events where participants can join in the festivities.
Early February
Sapporo Snow Festival
Held annually in Sapporo, Hokkaido, this festival showcases impressive snow and ice sculptures created by artists from around the world. The event features illuminated sculptures, snow slides, and various winter activities, attracting millions of visitors each year.
February 11
National Foundation Day
Known as Kenkoku Kinen no Hi, this national holiday commemorates the legendary foundation of Japan in 660 BC by Emperor Jimmu. It’s a day for Japanese citizens to reflect on their nation’s history and foster a sense of patriotism.
Mid-February
Otaru Snow Light Path Festival
In the city of Otaru, also located in Hokkaido, this enchanting festival features beautifully illuminated snow lanterns and sculptures lining the city’s historic canals and streets. The warm glow creates a magical atmosphere, offering a more intimate experience compared to larger festivals.
February 23
Emperor’s Birthday
Tennō Tanjōbi is a national holiday celebrating the birthday of the reigning Emperor, currently Emperor Naruhito, born on February 23, 1960. On this day, the Imperial Palace in Tokyo opens its gates to the public, allowing citizens and visitors to offer their congratulations. The Emperor, accompanied by members of the Imperial Family, makes several public appearances on a palace balcony to greet well-wishers.
South African Events
Anime Meetup
22 Feb@ Dragon Town
Starts: 14:00– Ends 18:00
Theme: Best of 2024 Anime
Game of the month
Hello Kitty Island Adventure – A Cozy Open-World Sanrio Game
Hello Kitty Island Adventure is a charming, open-world life-simulation game where players explore a colorful island alongside beloved Sanrio characters. Developed by Sunblink, it launched on Apple Arcade (July 28, 2023) and later expanded to Nintendo Switch & Windows PC (January 30, 2025).
Gameplay Features:
Open-World Exploration – Discover hidden areas, solve puzzles, and restore an abandoned island.
Friendship System – Befriend Sanrio characters (Hello Kitty, My Melody, Keroppi, etc.) by completing quests and giving gifts.
Customization – Personalize your avatar, decorate cabins, and design the perfect island paradise.
Crafting & Cooking – Gather resources to craft items and prepare delicious dishes.
Multiplayer Mode – Play solo or team up with friends for co-op adventures.
Photography & Mini-Games – Capture memories with in-game photography and enjoy relaxing side activities.
Pros:
Beautiful Art & Cozy Vibes – Aesthetic Sanrio-style visuals make the island feel warm and inviting.
Relaxing Gameplay – Perfect for casual players who enjoy slow-paced, stress-free exploration.
Engaging Friendship System – Character interactions feel meaningful, with quests that deepen relationships.
Frequent Updates & Events – Regular content drops keep the game fresh with new activities and characters.
Great for Sanrio Fans – Authentic representation of Hello Kitty and her world.
Cons:
Some Repetitive Tasks – Certain fetch quests and crafting mechanics can feel grindy.
Limited Fast Travel Options – Traversing the island on foot can be time-consuming.
Nintendo Switch Performance Issues – Occasional frame drops and control quirks on console.
No PvP or High-Stakes Gameplay – Might not appeal to players looking for action-packed challenges.
Conclusion:
Hello Kitty Island Adventure is ideal for fans of cozy, wholesome games, offering an immersive Sanrio experience with plenty of charm. While it won’t satisfy hardcore gamers looking for action, it shines as a relaxing escape into a beautifully crafted world.
Bento Plus: Itadakimasu Eats
Mont Blanc Dessert: A French Sweet with a Japanese Soul
The Mont Blanc dessert is a delicate pastry made with chestnut purée, whipped cream, and meringue, shaped to resemble a snow-capped mountain. Though it originated in France and Italy, it has become immensely popular in Japan, where it has taken on a unique identity.
Introduced in 1933 by Angelina, a famous Parisian café. Japan’s first version appeared in Tokyo’s Mont-Blanc confectionery shop in 1945. Japanese Mont Blanc often uses Japanese chestnuts (kuri) instead of European ones, resulting in a lighter, golden-hued paste.
Many modern variations exist, including matcha Mont Blanc, sweet potato Mont Blanc, and even sakura-flavoured versions. In Japan, Mont Blanc is a beloved seasonal treat, especially in autumn, when chestnuts are in season. It’s a staple in bakeries and cafés, embodying Japan’s love for refined, elegant desserts.
New AMV's & Wotagei
Every month, the AnimeFanatika team dives headfirst into the YouTube universe, hunting for the hottest, most rocking AMVs to blow your mind! This month we introduce you to Wotagei.
Wotagei is a unique Japanese performance art where enthusiastic fans use rhythmic, synchronized movements, often with glow sticks, to cheer for idols at concerts. It blends dance, chants, and acrobatics, creating a visually dynamic experience. Originating in otaku culture, wotagei fosters energetic fan engagement and a strong communal spirit.
Takeshi’s first choice is WE DRINK YOU BLOOD with scenes from Castlevania Nocturno and sung by one of his favourite Bands, Powerwolf. His second choice is RJim Yosef – Fire & Ice (ft. Scarlett) with scenes from various anime.
Ookami’s first choice is Society of Villains ft. Sam Tinnesz- Sweeter Than Revenge with scenes from Solo Leveling S2. His second choice is Royal Deluxe – Only Gettin Started with scenes from Sakamoto Days.
Shiro starts with ONLAP – Unstoppable with various anime scenes, followed by “Let’s Go” by JayAyWhy, E.X.A. & Canon with scenes from various anime.
Nekobara’s first choice is Neffex – Villains And Heroes with scenes from various anime, followed by her second choice Jim Yosef – Dancer in the Dark with scenes from various anime.
Our correspondence from Japan, Retara introduces us to two impressive Wotagei videos.
Please do support the original music artists by looking them up on YouTube, Spotify and other media and give them your appreciation and support!
Takeshi's Tunes
Ookami's Tunes
Shiro's Tunes
Nekobara's Tunes
Retara's Tunes
Birthday of the Month
Makoto Kowata – The Wandering Witch of Aomori
Makoto Kowata is the easygoing protagonist of Flying Witch, a slice-of-life anime infused with gentle magic. Her Birthday is on February 22. At 15 years old, she moves to Aomori to train as a full-fledged witch, embracing both the mystical and the mundane. Unlike the stereotypical flashy magic users, Makoto’s magic is subtle, reflecting the show’s soothing atmosphere—whether she’s growing mandrakes, interacting with supernatural beings, or simply learning life lessons. Her kindness, curiosity, and laid-back nature make her an endearing character. She’s also comically bad with directions, which adds to her charm. The beauty of Flying Witch lies in its celebration of everyday magic, perfectly embodied by Makoto’s journey.
Four Anime Characters Born on February 22:
Natsuki Subaru (Re:Zero – Starting Life in Another World)
Jiraiya (Naruto)
Mizuki (Kamisama Kiss)
Superbi Squalo (Katekyo Hitman Reborn!)
Anime Challenge February 2025
King’s Game (Ousama Game)
King’s Game (Ousama Game), our February anime challenge, is a horror anime based on the mobile novel by Nobuaki Kanazawa. It follows a high school class forced into a deadly survival game where they must obey commands from the mysterious “King” or face gruesome consequences.
Protagonist Nobuaki Kanazawa, having survived a previous King’s Game, desperately tries to save his classmates, but paranoia and brutality escalate as the game’s twisted rules unfold. The anime is known for its intense death scenes, psychological tension, and unpredictable twists. While it struggles with pacing and character development, it remains a thrilling watch for horror and death game fans.
King’s Game (Ousama Game) has elements of romance, but they are overshadowed by the intense survival horror. Nobuaki Kanazawa has a tragic backstory involving his previous girlfriend, Chiemi Honda, from the first King’s Game. Their relationship was deeply emotional, and her fate plays a crucial role in Nobuaki’s trauma and motivations.
In the current game, there are also romantic tensions among the classmates, with some characters developing feelings for each other. However, the brutal nature of the game often leads to betrayal, loss, and heartbreak, making love more of a tragic element than a hopeful one.
Light novel of the Month
Survival in Another World with My Mistress!
Survival in Another World with My Mistress! is a light novel series by Ryuto, blending isekai adventure with romance. The story follows Kousuke, a regular office worker who mysteriously finds himself transported to a dangerous fantasy world. Using his survival skills and crafting abilities, he builds shelter, makes weapons, and navigates the harsh new environment.
His life takes a turn when he meets Sylphy, a beautiful and powerful elf warrior who becomes both his protector and lover. Together, they face hostile creatures, political struggles, and the challenges of survival. The series combines action, strategy, and romance, with a strong emphasis on resourcefulness. Fans of isekai stories with a mix of adventure and mature relationships will find it engaging.
All about Japan
All About Japan shows you interesting journeys, interviews or just trivia that teach us more about the Land of The Rising Sun and it’s people. Enjoy the videos as we take a deeper dive into what makes Japan such a beloved country for many.
From diving into the life of being a Half-Japanese in Japan to a deep dive of ‘where foreigners prefer to live Japan or Korea,’ All about Japan explore all.
NHK World Japan released a video in its Anime Manga Explosion series titled THE ANIME STUDIO: Pierrot, featuring a nostalgic and emotional behind-the-scenes reflection on the Naruto franchise.
The video explores what the series means to those who worked on it, key moments in its production, and other anime by Studio Pierrot. It also highlights important staff members, including the studio’s founder.
Dive into the story of one of the most legendary anime studios that has captivated fans for generations worldwide
Japanese Commercials
Japanese commercials are out of this world sometimes, strange and fun. We share with you a highly entertaining Japanese commercial video and we hope you enjoy it!
Cosplay
If you are looking for some cosplay inspiration here are two Dandadan tutorial videos teaching you how to create the Dandadan Okarun Mask.
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