Christopher House

What Tokyoite doesn’t like to flaunt a little city trivia to impress a visiting friend or family member? But if you really want to appear like a local expert, not just any old fact will do – you need the really important stuff, like how many bars are there in Golden Gai? How did Sangenjaya become so damn hip? Why can’t Tokyo seem to beat Osaka in the highly competitive discipline of mass Bon Odori dancing? We’ve got these and plenty more essential (and essentially useless) Tokyo facts for you right here. Tokyo world records As you might imagine for a city this size, Tokyo holds a worthy amount of world records, some of them more unusual than others. Here are our favourites. 1. World’s most visited one-group museum Ever since digital art impresarios teamLab debuted their dazzling interactive creations around a decade ago, experiencing them has become something of a must for visitors to Tokyo (and plenty of locals, too). The capital boasts two immersive teamLab spaces: Planets and Borderless. Planets, the longer-running of the two, was in 2023 officially recognised by Guinness World Records as the most visited museum in the world exhibiting works by a single art collective. That’s before it expanded with new installations, no less. 2. Most LGBTQ+ venues in a single neighbourhood Shinjuku Nichome is the heart of Tokyo’s LGBTQ+ scene, boasting an estimated 300 queer bars and clubs in just a five-block area – the highest concentration of LGBTQ+ venues in the world. Hit up the righ

If you’ve tried amazake, chances are it was from a paper cup at a winter festival; a warming, comforting and nutritious beverage to keep you going in chilly weather. But this sweet white non-alcoholic drink made from fermented rice is traditionally a summer beverage.Nicknamed ‘drinkable IV’ (as in ‘intravenous drip’), amazake is heralded as a remedy for natsubate (summer heat fatigue), and it’s believed to offer a myriad of health benefits – some even claim it helps with hangovers. Unsurprisingly, given its superfood billing, amazake is now widely available all year round.Read on to learn more about the nutritious beverage, plus how to make it and where to buy it. This article was originally published on July 22 2019, and updated on August 6 2025. RECOMMENDED: 30 best kakigori in Tokyo for a delicious cool down

This article is part of a two-part series. To learn about a biwa master and her music lessons, see here.Traditional Japanese instruments, also known as wagakki, are an intrinsic part of Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Whether it’s the vibrant, percussive beat of the taiko or the lilting, airy melodies of the shakuhachi, each instrument has enchanted audiences for centuries, and continues to do so to this day.To get better acquainted with just a few wagakki, we sat down with Toshinobu Shishido, who goes by the artist name Kouzan Oyama, a master of the shamisen, koto and sanshin. Read on to learn more about his life, and if you fancy, book a lesson with him to try your hand at one (or all) of these three instruments.

This article is part of a two-part series. To learn about a shamisen, koto and sanshin master and his music lessons, see here.The biwa is one of Japan's many wagakki (traditional musical instruments). A relative of the Chinese pipa, the pear-shaped instrument is often used as an accompaniment for songs about historical tales and epic narratives, which are sung by biwa players like our interviewee, Nobuko Kawashima.Ever since her youth, Nobuko has been the performing arts type, but music wasn't always her passion. The Nakano-born musician worked in theatre and ballet before ultimately making the switch to studying the biwa. Now she's been playing for over 25 years and teaching for over a decade. Read on to learn more about this music master and find out how you can book her class.

Surviving your first Tokyo summer is practically a rite of passage. With temperatures that can reach well into the thirties and humidity levels high enough to have you practically wringing out your shirt, it doesn't hurt to have a few items in your arsenal to help you push through the city's most brutal time of year.While you're on the hunt for sunscreens and things to help you stay cool, keep your eyes peeled for these additional summer essentials, all of which you can find at your local chemist or convenience store.RECOMMENDED: 12 best public swimming pools in Tokyo – from ¥200 per entry

Ah, go-go boys. What’s not to love? These professional dancers elevate the energy of any event where they perform, LGBTQ+-related or otherwise. From freestyle dancing and choreographed routines to the infamous ‘towel show’ – dancing completely in the buff holding nothing but a small towel to cover their bits – go-go boys (almost) bare it all for our entertainment.But who are these Adonises when they aren’t shaking their stuff on stage? Get to know these scientists, mathematicians, dog lovers and mama’s boys as we profile some of the city's best performers. Follow them on social media for more info on where to find their upcoming shows, and remember to bring a tip to show your appreciation. 

Summer is here, which means Tokyo's many great (and cheap) public pools are now open. Admission is usually around ¥600 or less, the atmosphere is laidback and everyone's welcome, from old-timers to families with small children. While some public pools can only be used by the residents of that particular ward or city, our picks are all open to the general public, so there's no stopping you from swimming into shape this summer. Unfortunately, tattoos are prohibited at all pools – however, here are some hacks to help you cover up your tattoos. RECOMMENDED: outdoor adventure parks near Tokyo 

Across the street from the Mega Don Quijote near Shibuya Crossing, you’ll find the ‘Amusement Vending Machine Park’ produced by Don Quijote. From instant ramen to Hello Kitty popcorn, this little alcove’s quirky vending machines let you enjoy various bits of Japanese culture all in one location, and then some.The spot is open 24 hours, so feel free to stop by even on those late-night Shibuya adventures. As an added bonus, there’s a sitting area for you to enjoy your purchase right there in the space.Here are a few of the machines that caught our eye.

Although progress has been made in recent years to improve the visibility and acceptance of the LGBTQIA+ community in Japan, there is still work to be done to eliminate prejudice and discrimination. Helping to do this is Tokyo Pride (previously Tokyo Rainbow Pride), which since its launch in 2012 has grown to become one of the largest and most inclusive pride celebrations in Japan. Whether you're a queer individual or an ally, Tokyo Pride offers a fantastic opportunity to be a part of Japan's journey towards a more equal future. This multi-event festival is filled with educational seminars, late-night parties, social gatherings and of course, the ever-growing Pride Parade, bringing together people from all walks of life. Here are some of the events happening over Pride Month. But the good work and fun don't stop here, as there will also be a handful of fringe events happening after the main festival ends.

As one of the largest metropolitan cities in the world, Tokyo has so much more to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. With so many events happening every weekend and so many things to discover around each corner, Tokyo still induces a sense of fomo in us who live here – what more for visitors who only have a few days to cram in all the biggest hits the city has to offer. Take this feature as your tried-and-tested itinerary as we reveal to you the Time Out Tokyo editorial team’s personal favourite restaurants, bars and things to do in Tokyo. You’re welcome. Now go out there and explore. RECOMMENDED: Useful apps for travelling in Tokyo and Japan

Springtime cherry blossoms may very well take the prize for most iconic Japanese flower, but early summer belongs to hydrangeas. These multi-coloured beauties were first cultivated in Japan as early as the eighth century, but fossil records show their existence dates back tens of millions of years.Each year during the rainy season in June and July, hydrangeas begin to bloom in shades from cool blue to vivid neon pink. From temples to footbridges, these flowers can be found all over. Here are some fun facts to keep in mind while you’re snapping pics of those pretty flower pom-poms.RECOMMENDED: 12 places to see hydrangeas in and around Tokyo

June brings with it the chance to get out in the fields and watch nature at play. Firefly (or hotaru in Japanese) season is upon us, and while it's true that Tokyo is rather limited in the field department these days, there are still some great spots to see these homegrown fireworks. Check out our top picks of hotaru-watching events in and around Tokyo. RECOMMENDED: 10 best summer destinations in Japan

If you haven't noticed, it's been pretty hot in Tokyo lately. Even with cooling products and other summer essentials on hand to help combat the blazing temperatures, heat-related health risks still remain. According to the Tokyo Fire Department, there were 7,996 incidents of heatstroke between June and September of last year, and given that this year is just as hot, it's important to know the risks before going out. To help people better prepare themselves against the heat, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government has launched the 'Tokyo heat map'.The city map displays hourly measurements in seven colour-coded tiers ranging from 'generally safe' (below 21) to 'disaster-level danger' (35 and up). At the bottom of the screen you can toggle through times to view measurements up to 48 hours in advance, while selecting any of the black circles on the map will lead to a more detailed breakdown of that area's data. The numbers displayed don't represent the standard temperature as we know it, though. Image: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Instead, the map shows what's called WGBT, or 'wet-bulb globe temperature', which factors in not only air temperature, but several other metrics like humidity, wind speed and cloud cover. The resulting number is a type of heat index that offers a more accurate indicator of heat-related stress on the body than a standard thermometer. You can find the map here (in Japanese only).If you feel the WGBT getting too high for your liking while you're out, know thi

Let's face it: the planet is pretty much on fire. From rising sea temperatures and dying coral reefs to rapid deforestation and all manner of pollution, humanity's effects on nature have been devastating to say the least. With so much destruction happening to our natural world, it can seem nearly impossible to effect any meaningful change. But that hasn't stopped Queens for a Cause. Photo: Alejandro Morales RamaLe Horla Established in 2023, Queens for a Cause is a Tokyo-based, queer-run organisation that puts on several drag shows throughout the year featuring local and international talent. Each themed show is dedicated to a specific environmental cause, toward which QFAC donates a portion of its earnings. Whether it's saving pollinators, protecting polar ice caps or cleaning up our oceans and beaches, QFAC donates to a wide variety of organisations that dedicate themselves to helping the planet. Photo: Alejandro Morales RamaPolaris The collective is the brainchild of Polaris, a Jill-of-all-trades with a backstory as intriguing as the drag shows she produces. The American flight attendant spent her youth working on a farm in Connecticut before studying dance in New York. While in the Big Apple, she landed internships working in the fashion closet at Allure and the accessories closet at Vogue, among other places. The travel bug eventually brought her to Japan in 2013, where she would remain for over a decade working with special needs children. Photo: Alejandro Morales R

Last spring, the town of Kawaguchiko made headlines for the sudden popularity of one of its Lawson convenience stores, which boasts particularly Instagrammable views of Mt Fuji. However, the uptick in visitors led to overcrowding, frequent jaywalking and a number of other disruptive behaviours.As a result, a 2.5m-high, 20m-wide black curtain was erected across the street from the store in May 2024, but was subsequently taken down only three months later due in part to typhoon-related safety concerns. Now we're back where we started, as The Mainichi reports that the barrier is back up again as of August 7 – but this time with a new look.In contrast to the view-blocking black screen of 2024, the new brown tarp barrier is a more modest height of around 1.4m, allowing visitors to snap photos while keeping them out of the road. It's a win-win situation that prevents illegal crossings without denying tourists the view they've travelled to see.It's still unclear how long the new barrier will remain. The town's Urban Development Division acknowledges that incidents of poor etiquette are decreasing, but that it will 'continue to take action' and encourages tourists to remain safe.More from Time Out TokyoJapan's first flagship Harry Potter Shop has opened in HarajukuI'm donut? opens a speciality gluten-free doughnut shop in ShibuyaWe visited Okinawa's new Junglia theme park – here's what to expectFilm adaptation of cult indie game 'The Exit 8' due for release in late AugustTokyo is get

Moss enthusiasts, this one's for you. JR Tokai Tours has been offering its oddly specific 'Kyoto Moss Tour Passport' since July, but if you haven't gotten yours yet, there's still time – the ¥1,000 booklet is available until September 29. It's good for two consecutive days and allows entry into six Kyoto temples that contain moss gardens. (Strange, we know, but we promise they're all quite lovely.) Image: JR Central Given that buying separate tickets for all the six available temples would add up to more than twice the cost of the booklet, it's quite the bargain. To get your hands on the 'passport', you can purchase an e-ticket here, which you must then use to pick up your booklet in person at the JR Tokai Tours outlet in Kyoto Station (it's near the Hachijo Exit).Read on for more info on the six available temples. Photo: Klodien/Dreamstime Shoren-in Temple (青蓮院) The multiple gardens of Shoren-in Temple are perfect for a leisurely stroll. The moss garden specifically is near the main hall, not far from the tranquil Ryujin-no-ike Pond and its stone pagoda. If you're feeling adventurous, you'll find Hiyoshi Shrine hidden away in the back of the grounds among a bamboo grove. Fun fact: Shoren-in is one of only five temples in Kyoto whose head priests were once members of the imperial family. Photo: Enkoji Temple Enkoji Temple (圓光寺) One word describes Enkoji Temple: breathtaking. Founded by soon-to-be shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu himself in 1601, this gorgeous temple is the place

Things have been looking up for the Osaka Expo. Though Osaka governor Hirofumi Yoshimura lamented that the advance ticket sale goal of 14 million was 'impossible' back in March, the event has since gained its stride. Ten million visitors had been welcomed by June, and numbers have only continued to rise. According to Japan Times, the Expo has officially hit its break-even point of 18 million tickets as of August 8. Photo: Shawn Ccf/Dreamstime It's still too soon to say whether the event will be profitable or not, though. Operational costs for the Expo are an estimated ¥116 billion, and an incident as simple as a temporary shutdown due to inclement weather could set earnings back a whopping ¥600 million per day. Furthermore, organisers have until October 13 to reach their goal of 23 million tickets, but with a current weekly average of 400,000 to 500,000 tickets sold, only time will tell whether they'll make it. Fingers crossed!More from Time Out Osaka3 limited-time events you should not miss at the Osaka Expo this August5 things I learned about Japanese food at the Luxury Dining Series in OsakaThe Osaka Noh Festa is now underwayThis thought-provoking Osaka exhibition features 39 hyperrealistic human sculpturesThese artist-designed Billiken T-shirts are created just for Uniqlo Osaka stores

Tokyo has no shortage of manga exhibitions, whether it's for classic or modern works – and now it's time to add another to the list. From now through November 24, you can see 'Save the Glass Earth', an exhibition featuring some of the works of legendary mangaka (manga artist), animator and cartoonist, the late Osamu Tezuka. Photo: Tezuka ProductionsPhoenix: Yamato (1968) The exhibition takes place at the famous-manga-artists'-apartment-turned-museum Tokiwaso Manga Museum and spans the bulk of Tezuka's artistic journey, beginning with his childhood sketches. You'll find over 100 works from notable series such as Phoenix, Metropolis, Black Jack and, of course, Tezuka's most recognisable character: Astro Boy. Photo: Tezuka ProductionsAtom Returns (1972) Dubbed 'the god of manga', Tezuka's themes often touched on environmental issues, the true essence of humanity and the invaluable nature of life. His simplistic yet highly expressive artistic style demonstrates an almost childlike sincerity toward humanity. Photo: Tezuka ProductionsBlack Jack (1973) The influential artist – whose notable works also include Kimba the White Lion and Dororo – was a visionary whose ideas 'transcended time and space,' according to Tezuka Productions president Matsutani Takayuki; this humble exhibition is certainly a testament to Tezuka's vision. Photo: Tezuka ProductionsSyblings of the Sea (1973) Tickets for the exhibition are ¥500 for adults, ¥100 for elementary and junior high students and f

東京はオタクの楽園だ。 「ハローキティ」のホームともいえる「サンリオピューロランド」やスタジオジブリ関連の店舗など、熱心なファンが楽しめる場所が数多くある。そこへ2025年7月18日（金）、新たに「セガストア トーキョー（SEGA STORE TOKYO）」が加わった。 Photo: Keisuke Tanigawa 本店舗は、5月にオープンした「セガストア シャンハイ（SEGA STORE SHANGHAI）」に続く、世界で2番目のセガストア。セガを代表するキャラクター「ソニック・ザ・ヘッジホッグ」（以下、ソニック）の映画シリーズだけで約1000億円（10億ドル）を超える興行収入が記録されていることを考えると、実店舗を展開する戦略は理にかなっているといえるだろう。 Photo: Keisuke Tanigawa セガのグローバル・トランスメディア・グループを率いる常務執行役員トランスメディア事業本部長のジャスティン・スカルポーネ（Justin Scarpone）は「朝の7時から列に並ぶ人や、フィンランドからセガストア トーキョーのためだけに来日した女性もいました」と取材時に語ってくれた。 Photo: Keisuke Tanigawa 同店は「渋谷パルコ（PARCO）」の6階に入居。「ポケモンセンター シブヤ」「ニンテンドートウキョウ（Nintendo TOKYO）」「カプコンストアトーキョー（CAPCOM STORE TOKYO）」「ジャンプショップ（JUMP SHOP）」「ゴジラ ストア シブヤ（Shibuya）」などが同じフロアにあるため、一度にさまざま漫画やアニメ、ゲームのグッズやコンテンツが楽しめる。 Photo: Keisuke Tanigawa メインはやはり、ソニックのグッズだ。そのほか「テイルズ」「ナックルズ」「ドクター・エッグマン」をはじめ、人気キャラクターのキーホルダーからアクリルスタンド、ぬいぐるみまで幅広い商品がラインアップする。 Photo: Keisuke Tanigawaメインは『ソニック・ザ・ヘッジホッグ』のグッズ また、同店舗限定のソニックのぬいぐるみも3種類展開。デザインは、コラージュアーティストの河村康輔が手がけ、シュレッダーアートやコラージュの技法が落とし込まれている。 Photo: Keisuke Tanigawaコラージュアーティストの河村康輔がデザインした限定アイテム 加えて、メディコム・トイによるフィギュア「BE@RBRICK」のソニック版「BE@RBRICK SONIC THE HEDGEHOG CHROME Ver. 100% ＆ 400%」も見逃せない。 Photo: Keisuke Tanigawa「BE@RBRICK」のソニック版「BE@RBRICK SONIC THE HEDGEHOG CHROME Ver. 100% ＆ 400%」 ほかにも、ゲームシリーズ『龍が如く』のクッションやフィギュア、初音ミクのグッズなど、さまざまなアイテムが目立つ位置に展示されている。ファンにはたまらないだろう。 Photo: Keisuke Tanigawa『龍が如く』のクッション Photo: Keisuke Tanigawa『龍が如く』のフィギュア Photo: Christopher House初音ミクのアイテム さらに、ロールプレイングゲーム『ペルソナシリーズ』の商品も豊富に用意する。特に『ペルソナ3 リロード』や、傑作と名高い『ペルソナ5』のアイテムが

As we all know, Tokyo has one of the best public transport systems in the world. Unfortunately, maintaining that standard requires serious moolah, and passengers will soon feel the effects. According to Japan Today, JR East announced on August 1 it will be increasing its fares starting March 2026, a move that somewhat incredibly marks the company's first price increase since its founding in 1987 (consumption tax increases notwithstanding).The railway operator had applied for government approval to raise fees as early as last December, when Executive Vice President Chiharu Wataru announced his company must 'spend effort and money on safe railway operations'. The increases are estimated to bring in ¥88.1 billion in revenue annually – money that JR means to invest in equipment and repairs, as well as use to raise wages for staff and offset rising operational costs. Photo: Anna Demidova/Dreamstime On average, fares will rise by 7.1%, with the base fare for central Tokyo's Yamanote Line increasing ¥10, from ¥150 to ¥160. As always, IC card users will have slightly lower rates compared to paper ticket holders (between ¥8 and ¥9 increase), so we recommend getting yourself one of those to save a yen or two.If you're a bit of a stickler for paperwork, you can find the full Japanese report on the increase here.More from Time Out TokyoI'm donut? opens a speciality gluten-free doughnut shop in ShibuyaFilm adaptation of cult indie game 'The Exit 8' due for release in late AugustRoppongi

From fireworks festivals to sumo wrestling, Osaka is full of tradition this summer, and for the next few months, the vibrant city is promoting another staple of Japanese culture: Noh theatre. The ancient art with its striking masks and expressive dances is one of the oldest forms of theatre in the world, and from now until October 30, all of Osaka's Noh theatres are coming together to put on the aptly named Osaka Noh Festa to showcase the art.The event seeks to introduce the uninitiated to Noh theatre through bilingual workshops and performances centred around a few well-known Noh plays. Over the course of the festival, you'll not only see Noh performances, but also get the chance to try on masks, play instruments and more. Read on to find out how to take part in the unique experience. Photo: Yamamoto Noh Theater 'Tsuchigumo' at Yamamoto Noh Theater Yamamoto Noh Theater, Osaka's oldest Noh stage, is holding its Noh workshop and performance on August 31 from 3pm to 5pm. The performance is 'Tsuchigumo', a tale of a band of warriors fighting a giant spider monster. No worries about a language barrier, as a bilingual MC will offer guidance before and during the show.After the play, you'll have the chance to try on Noh masks and play traditional Japanese drums. You can also head to the second floor of the theatre to sip matcha during a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. All this is included in the price of the ticket.Tickets are ¥5,000 each and limited to only 50 participants –

It goes without saying that Japan is the place for Hello Kitty lovers. From airports to theme parks, Kitty-chan fans are spoiled for choice when on the hunt for merch. If you're looking for items that are a little different this summer, you're in luck, as Kitty's just gotten a bit of a makeover.  Photo: Christopher House For a limited time only, the cat-girl is ditching her iconic red bow and going all blue. Until August 6, you can pick up sky-blue Hello Kitty merch at Marimo Craft’s pop-up store on the third floor of Shibuya Sakura Stage. Items include bags, hairbands, scrunchies, keychains, stickers and much more. Photo: Christopher House Photo: Christopher HouseHello Kitty pop-up store We didn't find the little shop to be crowded in the slightest following its July 17 opening, but the store has announced it would implement a ticket system to manage visitors if necessary. Check its official social media account here for updates (in Japanese only). Photo: Christopher House Photo: Christopher House If you aren't able to make it to the store in person, the online shop is your best bet. The items sold online are the same as what you'll find in the store, but note that only shipping within Japan is available.More from Time Out TokyoSega Store Tokyo is now open – here's what we saw inside4 Tokyo bars named in the World's 50 Best Bars 2025 listThe timetable for Summer Sonic 2025 is out nowThe Fuji Rock timetable for 2025 is hereThe Mt Fuji climbing season has officially

Tokyo is otaku paradise. From Hello Kitty's home to various Ghibli stores, there are plenty of locations for dedicated fans to get their IP fix. Now it's time to add another to the list – Sega Store Tokyo is officially open. Photo: Keisuke Tanigawa This is the second Sega store in the world, following the opening of Sega Store Shanghai in May 2025. With over $1 billion reported in box office receipts from the Sonic the Hedgehog film franchise alone, the move to branch out with brick-and-mortar Sega stores certainly makes sense. Photo: Keisuke Tanigawa Sega Store Tokyo is located inside Shibuya Parco on the sixth floor, which just so happens to be the same floor as the Pokémon Center, Nintendo Store, Capcom Store, Jump Store and Godzilla Store, so we recommend getting your geek on all in one go when you visit. Photo: Keisuke TanigawaSega Store Tokyo The star of the show is the Sonic merch, natch. You'll find a wide selection of products featuring Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, Dr Robotnik (Dr Eggman in Japan) and other fan favourites, ranging from keychains and acrylic stands to pillows and plushies. Photo: Keisuke Tanigawa In addition to the everyday plushies, you'll be able to get your hands on three exclusive Sonic plushies not found elsewhere. Their designs are a collaborative effort between Sega and collage artist Kosuke Kawamura of 'Akira: Art of Wall' fame. While you're picking up exclusive items, don't forget your Sonic Bearbricks. Photo: Keisuke Tanigawa Photo: Ke

Time to whip out your hiking gear. The Mt Fuji climbing season officially began on Tuesday July 1, reports Japan Today. In an effort to manage over-tourism and ever-growing crowds, online registration and fee increases were established earlier this year for those wishing to climb Japan's most famous mountain. Advance registration is strongly recommended, while the ¥4,000 entry fee is required for all climbers. Photo: Krisada Wakayabun/DreamstimeHikers climbing Mt Fuji Currently, only the Yoshida Trail in Yamanashi prefecture is open to the public; Shizuoka prefecture's three trails are scheduled to open July 10. The Yoshida Trail has set a limit of 4,000 daily visitors and will close its gate to the summit daily from 2pm until 3am the following day, though there are no such restrictions announced for Shizuoka's trails at this time.The climbing season will last from now until September 10. Make your reservation here, and remember to follow all necessary safety protocols for a safer climbing experience.More from Time Out TokyoSanrio has announced its 2025 character ranking resultsIconic Ghibli films come to life in 3D at the studio's sculpture exhibition in TokyoEmbark on a creative journey through time and space at the Leiji Matsumoto exhibitionEvangelion's 30th-anniversary art exhibition is happening later this year3 Tokyo restaurants named in the World's 50 Best Restaurants 2025 listWant to be the first to know what's cool in Tokyo? Sign up to our newsletter for the latest