Locals and visitors alike will now have an insider's view of the culturally -- and culinarily - rich past and present of this often undiscovered San Francisco nook. Winding through the cobblestone passageways and unassuming mall hallways of Japantown, Edible Excursions will take participants along a flavorful path of seven stops including century-old, family-owned businesses, artisan shops and restaurants. 'Local celebrity' hotspots, historic tidbits and fun food facts will also be shared along the way, enlightening attendees with in-the-know details and enticing ideas for future visits.

Tastings will include both sweet and savory delights such as the slightly sweet but very addictive mochi at one of the last remaining manufacturers, Benkyodo, since 1906. Amongst a collection of tastings, guests will enjoy a layered, savory "Japanese pancake" called Okonomiyaki, at Izumiya. They will also experience a sweet potato latte that provides a healthy and flavorful alternative to caffeinated morning beverages. A one-of-a-kind 'Geisha Float' from Cafe Hana that offers non-geishas a sweet and exotic journey through the combination of several seemingly unrelated ingredients will also be tasted in betwixt and between a host of other bites. The tour concludes with a sit-down ramen. Along the way, shop and restaurant owners will share anecdotes and histories that reveal Japantown's cultural relevance to San Francisco as well as to the rest of the nation. Participants are welcome to learn more about Japantown's history by taking the self-guided walking tour.

The Japantown Culinary Excursion is offered from 11am - 2:30pm Fridays and the second Saturday of every month. The cost of the tasting tour and a sit-down lunch is $85 per person. Additional experiences of Japantown through Edible Excursions are also available, including an upgrade to a multi-course lunch at the buzz-worthy Japanese French fusion restaurant, Bushi Tei, an in-home private sushi making class and inclusive sake tasting, or even a fascinating trip back in time to a traditional tea ceremony. Private tours for groups of 8+ are also available. Inquiries and registration for the Japantown Culinary Excursion can be made through the Edible Excursions website http://edibleexcursions.net/japantown_tour.htm or by phone at 415-806-5970.

Join us for a day of wonderful performances by some of the Bay Area's leading performers in taiko, martial arts, koto and more. Performers include GenRyu Arts, Kirakira Boshi Choir, Kaori Nakano, Shin Shin Gakudo Martial Arts, Sawai Koto U.S.A. and Genyukai Berkeley. FREE

Experience the might of three Pro Sumo Wresters at the one of kind event. Watch demonstrations; learn about Sumo Wrestling and watch actual matches take place! This event is sponsored by the Japan Center Malls in the Japantown Peace Plaza. FREE

Some good old-fashioned fun is in store on Saturday, October 29th when the Japan Center Malls hosts a Spooktacular Halloween Party complete with mall-wide trick or treating. Children and adults are invited to dress in costume and stop by for some socializing, trick-or-treating and lots of activities from 12:00 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The Spooktacular Halloween Party was organized to commemorate the season and to celebrate Halloween with our community. Everyone is encouraged to wear a Halloween costume and come enjoy the games, activities, and even a little store-to-store trick or treating.

* In the Japantown Peace Plaza we'll have a range of games and decorations.
* Join our craft table to decorate mini-pumpkins and bags.
* Little guests can enjoy having their faces painted & removable tattoos.
* Children in costume will be able to trick or treat in East and West Malls and to visit participating retailers for candy and surprises.

There is no charge to attend the Trick or Treat Party at the Japan Center Malls.

This event is sponsored by the Japan Center Malls in the Japantown Peace Plaza. FREE

 Fees: Free and open to the public

December 8, 9, 15, 16 12 PM – 4 PM

Ho, Ho, Ho - Santa Claus has arrived at the Japan Center Malls. The Japan Center Malls has the perfect place to pose for photos with Santa and share your holiday wish list. So pack up the little ones and head on out to share all the joy of the holidays. This wonderful Santa takes the time to talk individually with each each child. Bring your camera to capture the moment, there will not be a photographer.

This event is sponsored by the Japan Center Malls in the Japantown Peace Plaza. FREE