On November 28th, the "Melty-Go-Round Tree," designed by art director Sebastian Masuda, known for the visuals in Kyary Pamyu Pamyu's music videos, was unveiled at Tokyo City View, the observation deck on the 52nd floor of Roppongi Hills, and a lighting ceremony was held.
When Masuda pressed the switch, fun background music reminiscent of an amusement park began playing. Simultaneously, three "ponies" attached to the merry-go-round-shaped tree lit up and began to spin.
The translucent tree, designed to resemble "ice," is filled with colorful ornaments and toys. Illuminations in pink, light blue, and yellow are embedded within the tree, illuminating it from within. The overlapping colors create a mystical effect, stimulating the viewer's imagination.
According to Masuda, the tree, resembling melting ice, represents "the fleeting glow of something tangible that will eventually disappear." The message also conveys, "Let's rediscover the childlike spirit and playfulness we tend to lose as we grow up, and run toward a new future." Masuda, who had always wanted to build a merry-go-round, smiled and said, "Today, my dream came true." Two art-framed "selfie" mirrors designed by Masuda were also installed around the tree. By sitting on the stump-shaped stools placed in front of the mirrors and taking a photo, you can capture the tree and yourself perfectly. This idea was proposed by students at Roppongi High School. After several meetings, Masuda and the students spent about two months completing the tree and selfie spot. One of the students involved in the project commented, "We're happy that our idea has come to fruition." Hitomi Ueno, a model currently featured in Zipper magazine, also attended the lighting ceremony. She wore a doll-like white dress with a gray pattern, matching the color of the tree, and shoes with antique-style ribbons. The observation deck also sells limited-edition Christmas goods produced by Masuda, such as iPhone cases (1,785 yen), tin badges (315 yen), and candy (714 yen). Free Christmas live performances will be held from December 3rd, and Restaurant Mado Lounge will be serving limited-edition Christmas cocktails and special dinners from December 21st. Stargazing events for couples will also be held on the rooftop Sky Deck from November 29th.
