Kaila Imada

When June rolls around, we officially enter summer – and start bracing ourselves for Tokyo’s hot, humid days ahead. While quick fixes like ice cream or kakigori are nice, it’s also great to have longer-lasting options that won’t melt into a puddle in our hands.  Leave it to Japan to come up with some wacky and wild inventions to help keep you cool and presentable throughout the unbearably hot and humid season. From icy-cool shirt sprays to tingly face and hair wipes, these handy products will help you survive the scorching summer heat. Plus, you can easily pick them up at your local drugstore, konbini or even at popular shops like Don Quijote. RECOMMENDED: These fun indoor activities are inside air-conditioned spaces

It’s become a well-known fact that you should wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, whether rain or shine, winter or summer. But now that summer is finally here, sunscreen is one of those must-have items that we’ll be reapplying and carrying around with us all season long.  As Japan is renowned for its skincare and cosmetics, it's no surprise that the country’s makeup makers have come up with some pretty great sunblocks catering to a variety of skin types. From lightweight gel formulas that are ideal for hot weather to convenient spray-on protection, we’ve rounded up some of the most popular and affordable sunscreens you can find at your average Japanese drugstore.  RECOMMENDED: 11 essential items to survive the Tokyo summer 

Japan's traditional summer treat, kakigori (shaved ice with syrup), has been making a strong comeback over the last few years: specialist shops have been popping up all over town, regularly attracting queues that border on the ridiculous.  The trend shows absolutely no signs of slowing down, and this once summer-only dessert is now served year-round. These shops and cafés are also constantly churning out new and creative flavours to keep the hype going – think tiramisu, avocado and even corn and tomatoes.  This guide points the way to Tokyo's very best shaved ice shops and cafés, many of them open throughout the year. RECOMMENDED: Want more? Cool down with Tokyo's best ice cream

Standing out with its signature 330-metre tall tower, cutting-edge architecture and ethos of sustainability and wellness, the expansive Azabudai Hills complex has become a pivotal landmark and lifestyle hub in central Tokyo. If you’re looking for a hip new place to dine and catch up with friends, or rejuvenate in a lush urban oasis, Azabudai Hills is the place to be – and it’s got plenty more too, including public art, sleek galleries and educational facilities. Read on for our selection of the best places to shop, dine and see in Azabudai Hills.

タイムアウト東京 > Things To Do >東京近郊の美しいひまわりスポット、ベスト7 夏の花といえば、何といってもヒマワリだろう。東京近郊には広大なヒマワリ畑がいくつもある。一面に咲き誇る花の中を散策したり、モチーフにした料理を堪能したり、ヒマワリをテーマにした迷路で遊んだりできる。 ベストシーズンは7月から8月末までだが、遅咲きの品種なら9月になっても鑑賞できる。この記事では、タイムアウト東京編集部が選んだ、この夏訪れたいベストヒマワリスポットを紹介する。 関連記事『東京、7月に開催される花火大会4選』

Tokyo takes its desserts seriously, especially in summer when all we think about is where to cool down with the best ice cream, kakigori and other frozen treats. From coffee soft-serve and cereal-infused ice cream to guilt-free goodness and intense matcha delights, there's really something for everyone in our super-cool list of the best ice cold treats in Tokyo. RECOMMENDED: Japanese ice cream flavours you need to try

タイムアウト東京 > レストラン＆カフェ >東京、ベストアイスクリーム18選 東京は「甘いもの」に事欠かない街だ。夏はかき氷にアイスクリーム、ソフトクリームなど、冷たいスイーツが酷暑で火照った体をクールダウンしてくれる。 ここでは、タイムアウト東京の英語版編集部が厳選した18のアイスクリームショップを紹介する。コーヒーテイストのソフトクリームやシリアルが入ったアイス、濃厚な抹茶アイスなど、とびきりクールなアイスクリームの中から、お気に入りがきっと見つかるだろう。 関連記事『東京、いま注目のかき氷5選』

Osaka makes history in 2025 as the first Japanese city to host the World Expo twice. It last staged the event in 1970, which holds the record as the best-attended Expo of the 20th century. With big plans in place, Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan is sure to be just as memorable. World Expos have been taking place since 1851 and now occur every five years for up to six months at a time. These large-scale events bring together innovations from around the world and are often the first places to see new technology. Over the years, the likes of elevators, electric cars and the first mobile phone have been unveiled at Expos. You can discover the innovations and culture of each participating country at its own pavilion during the event. Expo 2025 is Osaka’s second and Japan’s third World Expo, following the Aichi Expo in 2005. It takes place from April 13 to October 13 2025 on Yumeshima Island in Osaka Bay. World-renowned architect Sou Fujimoto is responsible for bringing the Expo 2025 site to life with a stunning master design. Fujimoto includes plenty of nature by incorporating green spaces throughout the site as well as ample seating and shaded rest areas. The venue’s showpiece is the 20-metre high, two-kilometre round Grand Ring. Visitors can walk inside as well as on top of this giant wooden structure, which affords breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the Expo site and Osaka Bay.

Soon it will be summer here in Japan, and for most people, the warm weather immediately calls for a visit to one of the many gorgeous beaches or islands dotted around the country. However, if you’d rather escape the sweltering sun, Japan is also home to a host of refreshing mountain resorts and rolling hillside landscapes in cooler regions such as Hokkaido.  Looking to make the most of the summer season? Start planning your next getaway to one of these beautiful destinations. RECOMMENDED: Discover the best nature escapes in Tokyo

Japan has a host of awe-inspiring traditional festivals every year, some of which have been celebrated for centuries. Festivals, also known as matsuri, are steeped in tradition, offering visitors a glimpse of Japanese culture that you won’t find at your average museum. What makes traditional festivals in Japan particularly special is the fact that many of them are perfectly preserved customs that have been passed down through generations. It also helps that many Japanese people are still actively involved in these festivals – they're still deeply important community gatherings, and that's why they are worth seeing. If you’re wondering which events are the best ones to catch, we’ve rounded up Japan's most spectacular annual festivals. From the snowy showcase at Hokkaido to summer’s bon odori dancing, these are the celebrations you should definitely check out while you’re in the country. RECOMMENDED: The most beautiful places in Japan

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.

If you’re looking for a souvenir that’s both practical and beautiful, the tenugui is a perfect choice. Available in a multitude of colours and designs, these versatile cloths are a testament to Japanese craftsmanship, being as durable as they are stylish. One of the best spots to pick up tenugui in Tokyo is at Kamawanu, a long-standing tenugui speciality store in Daikanyama that’s been around since 1897. Tenugui are deeply ingrained in Japanese lifestyle and culture. Hemp cloths, first used as prototypes for tenugui during the Nara period (710-794), later evolved into ceremonial accessories in the Heian period (794-1185), when they were used by aristocrats. After cotton cultivation became more widespread, tenugui transitioned into practical, everyday items and, in modern times, have become stylish and decorative pieces. Kamawanu’s flagship store in Daikanyama is the perfect place to start your tenugui journey. The shop offers an impressive selection of 250 different tenugui in various sizes, colours and patterns, with fresh designs dropping every season. Aside from the Daikanyama store, you can browse Kamawanu’s collections at the brand’s four other stores in Tokyo as well as one in Nagoya. For those not in Japan, Kamawanu has an online store with international shipping available.  Not sure what to do with your newly acquired tenugui? These sustainable cloths have a long lifespan and can be used in countless ways – starting as beautiful decorative pieces and gradually transit

Osaka has recently emerged as a magnet for luxury hospitality, with the Four Seasons among the latest prestigious names to open in the vibrant metropolis. Stepping into the ground floor lobby automatically screams luxury, as you’re faced with stylish interiors courtesy of Japanese design house Curiosity. The serene ambiance is elevated by exquisite stonework, soaring lattice partitions, an amber-lacquered elevator area, and a captivating water feature that reflects the changing seasons. Enhancing the sense of refinement are carefully curated artworks thoughtfully placed throughout the hotel, including a striking Urushi sculpture by Genta Ishizuka in the lobby and a graceful piece by Ayako Ueda sitting near the pool. Located in the central Dojima district, the Four Seasons Hotel Osaka comprises 175 guest rooms, a gorgeous indoor pool, a public bath and a 24/7 fitness centre with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city skyline. The hotel also offers a modern take on the traditional ryokan experience through its exclusive Gensui floor, which features 21 Japanese-style guest rooms adorned with refined tatami flooring, futon-style sleeping platforms, and amenities such as cotton yukata robes. Those staying on this floor also have access to the Sabo tea lounge, where you can enjoy tea, bento breakfasts, and sake and wine served in the evenings. The hotel's Western-style rooms are nothing short of stunning, accented with natural wood and stone interiors, crisp white linens and

Since opening its doors in 2023, Tokyo Confidential has established itself as a standout in Tokyo’s cocktail scene. The stylish space doesn’t feel like a typical Japanese cocktail bar – not that there’s anything wrong with Tokyo’s more genteel drinking dens – as it offers a more casual and relaxed environment for you to just drop in without fussing over reservations and strict bar rules. At times, the bar doesn’t even feel like Tokyo at all – until you take in the unobstructed view of Tokyo Tower from the open-air terrace. The bar has a cosy living room vibe, and coupled with its hospitality and welcoming atmosphere, it’s easy to lose track of time here. Furthermore, the bar’s slogan of ‘pull up, fess up’ means you can drop in whenever you please to escape life’s pressures. The folks behind Tokyo Confidential have some serious street cred. Founder Holly Graham, for instance, was ranked in the top 10 of Bar World 100, a list of the globe's most influential figures in the bar industry. Head bartender Wakana Murata, on the other hand, was on the opening team of Tokyo Edition’s much-lauded Gold Bar. Plus, the bar’s food menu is supervised by chef Daniel Calvert of the three Michelin-starred Sézanne.  Tokyo Confidential’s centrepiece is a gorgeous bar counter made from a 300-year-old piece of reclaimed wood from a shrine. It’s the perfect spot to start exploring the bar’s drinks menu, where you’ll find a selection of signature cocktails including low- and no-ABV options. To keep t

When one thinks of Ginza bars, prim and prissy spaces affixed with a pricey drink list often come to mind. You can imagine how glad we were to have found Mixology Salon, which is bucking that stereotype with a relaxed attitude that also extends towards its inspired Japanese-take on cocktails. Easily accessible on the 13th floor of Ginza Six, this unpretentious space is clean and minimal yet welcoming. In fact, it looks more like a modern tea bar than an alcoholic one – and there’s a good reason for that. Specialising in what they call ‘teatails’, Mixology Salon’s signature cocktails are all made with its house blend of tea-infused spirits. You’ll find a wide range here, from hojicha-infused bourbon and soba cha vodka to oolong tea-flavoured rum and sencha gin. For first-timers, we recommend you go for a teatail course, where you can choose between three to five drinks made with a particular tea in mind. Otherwise, you can’t go wrong with the Green Tea Fashioned, a fresh take on the classic Old Fashioned. Got a sweet tooth? Order the Hoji Cha cocktail, which is a mix of buckwheat tea-infused vodka and pineapple and finished with a surprising hint of miso. Note: ¥800 table charge applies per person. Price exclusive of consumption tax.

Terunari puts a creative spin on kaiseki by incorporating French influences that shine through in each and every dish. French- trained chef Kanichi Tokumoto runs the kitchen, working under chef Akihiko Murata of Terunari’s Michelin-starred sister restaurant Suzunari. Chef Tokumoto doesn’t stress over hyper-seasonality and instead works with whatever the kitchen is given, not necessarily just with what’s in season. You can look forward to unique reinterpretations of classic Japanese dishes, such as a crisp monaka (wafer sandwich, usually sweet) filled with chicken liver pâté, and chawanmushi egg custard made more substantial with beef tendon and a hint of wasabi. The more classic kaiseki- style dishes range from sardines simmered with ume plum and ginger to tuna served with red konjac, and aji (mackerel) layered with cucumber and a savoury miso tartar which packs an umami punch. Seasonality is expressed through the details: decorations include seasonal leaves and twigs, while the colours are bright and vibrant, making them not just appetising but photogenic too. The meal ends with a shime (loosely translated as ‘coming to a close’), where you’re served Terunari’s signature rice dish, a combination of sweet pork marinated in shoyu and mirin, and steamed with a perfectly plump tomato and fresh basil inside a Japanese claypot. Once cooked, the rice is mixed up at your table and topped with a good dose of cheese, turning it into a Japanese risotto of sorts. For fans of kaiseki,

Run by a charming husband-and-wife duo for the past eight years, Kudan Otsuka is classic kaiseki at its best. The quaint space is situated across the street from Yasukuni Shrine, whose calm surrounds extend into the restaurant. To keep things fresh, the menu changes monthly, highlighting seasonal ingredients in a traditional yet original way. Expect wow-inducing dishes featuring unique ingredients you may have never seen or tried before. Our meal started with a deceivingly simple soup (or owan, which literally means bowl in Japanese). The clear broth was accented with a tender chunk of winter melon, silky smooth somen noodles, okura and junsai (watershield, whose leaves have a slimy coating). This was followed by a four- appetiser platter served on a beautiful fan-shaped plate: a sunomono salad was given a twist by replacing the conventional cucumber with figs inside a vinegar jelly; a traditional summer kaiseki coupling of daikon and octopus had been simmered in a flavourful soy broth until tender; a selection of summer vegetables fried karaage-style in an unbelievably light batter; and there was an inspired pairing of yuba (tofu skin) and raw shiro ebi (white shrimp) topped with wasabi for a light kick.

Commonly associated with sumo wrestlers looking to get a calorie-packed meal to bulk up for an upcoming match, and hungry diners seeking something warm during the cold months, nabe or Japanese-style hotpot also has a more refined side. Enter Negima, an unassuming restaurant in Kita-Ikebukuro, which specialises in Edo-style maguro (tuna) and negi (Welsh onion) nabe. Contrary to its big servings, the restaurant is tiny and only seats eight. Negima is inspired by nabe from the Edo era prior to the invention of refrigerators, when fresh produce especially fish couldn’t be kept for long. So folks back then had to use up the ingredients by dropping them all into a pot of flavourful dashi broth where everything would be cooked thoroughly. Nabe at Negima is served as a course meal. You start with an Edo-style tamagoyaki, or egg roll, which has been lightly seasoned with katsuo dashi and shoyu. Pair it with sake and you’re off to a good start. Next, you’ll be presented with a beautiful platter of nabe ingredients before they are cooked inside a light dashi broth along with wakame seaweed and fresh greens. You’ll be able to sample various cuts of tuna, including the haramo (belly) and kama toro (gill flesh); they are both equally tender and elevated to another level with just a sprinkle of hand-crushed pepper. The thick slices of negi are cooked until soft and make for a refreshing relief between mouthfuls of tuna. To finish, you get to savour all that flavourful broth that’s been si

Step into the brand new Adidas flagship store for all your go-to sporting needs from clothing and shoes to accessories. The new shop is also home to the all-new Adidas Training Academy where you can kick yourself into gear with your new sportswear while working up a sweat at one of the free training programmes followed by a visit to the Refresh Zone to freshen up in their shower facilities and vanity areas.

The popular frames from the leading South Korean eyewear brand Gentle Monster have finally opened up shop in Hong Kong with their very first flagship store. Fashionistas in the SAR can now get their hands on the very sunglasses worn by Korean pop stars to sleek frame styles you won't find anywhere else. The new flagship shop in Causeway Bay is themed after a train platform giving visitors a unique shopping experience similar to Seoul's ever-changing 'Quantum Project' concept stores. 

Celebrate more than 40 years of Agnès B as they open their brand new concept store in Causeway Bay's Fashion Walk. The Rue du Jour shop is named after the very first Agnès B Femme shop, which opened in Paris back in 1975. Get your hands on your favourite items from the Sport B, Voyage and Bijoux collections along with a bite to eat at the B Cafe and a colourful bouquet from B Fleuriste. 

Get your daily jolt of caffeine with one of the blends from the experts at % Arabica. This coffee roaster takes pride in using beans from its own coffee farm in Hawaii, as well as sourcing high-grade speciality beans from around the world. The shop is also a global distributor of, and uses, a high-tech Japanese roasting machine – the Tornado King – that prepares the beans to precision at the touch of a button. With a flagship shop in Discovery Bay North Plaza, plus a couple of other outlets in Hong Kong, you can pick up your fresh beans with relative ease.

While Tokyo remains one of Japan’s hottest destinations – not least thanks to its top-tier airports and affordability – another city is gaining attention for its exceptional liveability. This year, Osaka was ranked as the seventh most livable city in the world according to the Economist’s annual Global Liveability Index, which examines a total of 173 cities worldwide. While Tokyo has made this ranking in the past, Osaka is the only city in Asia to crack the top ten this year. Osaka is tied for seventh place with Auckland, New Zealand, just behind Copenhagen (No 1), Vienna (No 2), Zurich (No 3), Melbourne (No 4), Geneva (No 5) and Sydney (No 6). Rounding out the top ten are Adelaide and Vancouver. This year’s report evaluated over 30 qualitative and quantitative factors across five main categories: stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure. Osaka earned a score of 96 on the global index, compared to 98 for top-ranked Copenhagen. The Kansai city received full marks for stability, healthcare, and education. It scored 86.8 for culture and environment, and 96.4 for infrastructure.  Here’s a full look at the top ten cities and their total index score:  1. Copenhagen, Denmark (98.0)2. Vienna, Austria (97.1)2. Zurich, Switzerland (97.1)4. Melbourne, Australia (97.0)5. Geneva, Switzerland (96.8)6. Sydney, Australia (96.6)7. Osaka, Japan (96.0)7. Auckland, New Zealand (96.0)9. Adelaide, Australia (95.9)10. Vancouver, Canada (95.8) With its high score

Following Tokyo’s strong showing in Asia's 50 Best Restaurants earlier this year, which included nine local entries, the highly anticipated World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 list has just added several more notches to the city’s culinary belt. This year’s rankings were announced at a ceremony in Turin, Italy on June 19 and include three restaurants in Tokyo and one in Osaka.  Taking the top spot this year is Maido in Lima, Peru. It’s run by Lima-born chef Mitsuharu ‘Micha’ Tsumura, known for his innovative take on Nikkei cuisine which blends the ingredients of his home city with the culinary techniques of Japan, where he has his roots. Maido was followed by Asador Etxebarri in Atxondo, Spain, Mexico City’s Quintonil, Madrid’s Diverxo and Alchemist in Copenhagen.  Photo: Four Seasons MarunouchiSézanne Tokyo’s highest ranking restaurant is Sézanne, which took the seventh spot, just behind Bangkok’s Gaggan. Helmed by British chef Daniel Calvert, Sézanne continues to impress with its meticulous technique-driven cuisine highlighting seasonal ingredients sourced from across Japan. Photo: Keisuke TanigawaFlorilège Elsewhere on this year’s list, Tokyo’s Narisawa re-entered the list in 21st place while Osaka’s La Cime came in at 44. Florilège, which has relocated to Azabudai Hills, also secured a spot on the list, coming in at 36. Check out the full list of the World's 50 Best Restaurants 2025. More from Time Out Tokyo These are the most affordable destinations to visit across Jap

While Tokyo was recently ranked as one of the most affordable travel destinations worldwide, several other cities in Japan are apparently – and somewhat surprisingly – even more budget-friendly than the capital. After analysing travel costs in 18 cities across Japan, experts at UK-based but Japan-focused travel agency JR Pass revealed Nara as the most cost-effective city for travellers.  This ranking was based on factors like average prices for restaurants, hotels, rail travel passes and attractions, with data taken from July 2024. In the study, Nara received a cost efficiency score of 9.1 out of ten. While the temple-filled city has higher attraction costs, it is also one of the cheapest places to dine, with average dinner prices around ¥2,878 and hotel stays averaging at ¥11,600 per night. Other cities and areas near the top of the ranking include Chiba (No 2), which had the cheapest hotel and travel prices overall; Kumamoto (No 3), which offered the lowest rail travel costs; Okinawa (No 4), known for its stunning marine life; and Hiroshima (No 5), renowned for its plentiful heritage sites. Here’s a breakdown of the top ten most cost-effective cities/areas and their overall cost efficiency score: Nara (9.1/10) Chiba (8.9/10) Kumamoto (8.3/10) Okinawa (8/10) Hiroshima (7.9/10) Yokohama (7.9/10) Kawasaki (7.7/10) Nagoya (7.6/10) Kochi (7.3/10) Kitakyushu (7.3/10) While Tokyo didn’t make the list this time around, nearby locales like Chiba and Yokohama offer more budget-frie

As the weather starts to warm up, Japan goes into a mint chocolate craze, where you’ll find this seasonal flavour in everything from ice cream and chocolate to drinks and cookies. Perhaps it’s the feeling that mint is refreshing and can help cool you down from the heat. Whatever the reason, mint chocolate is a warm weather highlight in Tokyo that you can’t miss. Here are some of the lip-smacking mint chocolate treats we’ve discovered at our local snack shops and convenience stores to get us through the season.   Photo: Seven-Eleven Japan Co., Ltd. 7-Eleven choco mint moko cream puff This chocolate mint cream puff features chewy cocoa dough filled with refreshing mint cream dotted with chocolate flakes. The cream puff is surprisingly not too sweet, making it a nice treat to enjoy any time of the day. ¥216 Photo: Seven-Eleven Japan Co., Ltd. 7-Eleven choco mint premium waffle cone This summer, 7-Eleven is launching a line-up of new chocolate mint ice cream treats, but we’re hooked on this classic waffle cone. Packed with crunchy chocolate chips and a refreshing mint-chocolate balance, it’s the perfect cool-down treat. ¥289 Photo: Akagi Dairy Co., Ltd. Choco Mint Gari Gari Kun A classic Tokyo treat, Gari Gari Kun ice pops always have seasonal offerings, and we can’t get enough of the mint chocolate version that's made a comeback to our konbini freezers. The phrase gari gari is actually an onomatopoeia for a hard, firm crunch. The centre of this popsicle is filled with smal

With Tokyo home to two of the world's best airports for food, it’s no surprise that the capital’s international gateways also consistently rank among the best globally. In the 2025 World Airport Survey conducted by Skytrax, the Haneda and Narita international airports were once again ranked among the top ten in the world, solidifying Tokyo’s status as a world-class travel hub. This year, Haneda Airport came in third place behind Singapore Changi Airport (No 1) and Doha’s Hamad International Airport (No 2). In addition to securing a spot in the global top three, Haneda was ranked as the world's cleanest airport and the best airport by passenger numbers in 2025, a category in which it beat out all other airports serving over 70 million passengers – the busiest tier globally. Meanwhile, Narita International Airport in Chiba prefecture took fifth place, narrowly trailing Seoul Incheon (No 4).  Here’s the full top ten ranking of the best airports in the world in 2025:  Singapore Changi Doha Hamad Tokyo Haneda Seoul Incheon Tokyo Narita Hong Kong  Paris Charles de Gaulle  Rome Fiumicino Munich Zurich For a more detailed look at this year’s ranking, head to the Skytrax website. More from Time Out Tokyo Tokyo’s latest Godzilla art exhibition is a roaring tribute to the 70-year-old icon Tokyo ranked among the most affordable holiday destinations of 2025 Ghibli Park to stay open after dark for the first time this August Grand Hyatt Tokyo is bringing back its Pokémon rooms and meals

Japan’s weak yen and fluctuating economy has created a golden opportunity for international travellers seeking more bang for their buck. The country has seen record-breaking numbers of visitors in just the first quarter of 2025, and no signs point to inbound tourism slowing down anytime soon. Japan simply offers top-of-the-line value, as a recent survey conducted by the UK’s Post Office makes clear: the ranking has Tokyo as the third most affordable holiday destination worldwide in 2025. Also known as the Holiday Money Report, the survey studied 47 destinations for UK travellers, ranking them by ‘overall holiday value for money’. These are the destinations that made up the top ten:  Algarve, Portugal Cape Town, South Africa Tokyo, Japan Kuta, Bali Delhi, India Sunny Beach, Bulgaria Hoi An, Vietnam Prague, Czech Republic Phuket, Thailand Costa del Sol, Spain To come up with the final ranking, Post Office examined the average cost of eight common travel items that you’d most likely purchase on a trip. This includes essentials like sunscreen and insect repellent to consumables like a cup of coffee and a three-course dinner for two.  According to the report, a cup of filter coffee in Tokyo comes out to approximately £2.44 (around ¥476) and a three-course dinner for two (including a bottle of house wine) costs roughly £44.58 (around ¥8,704). Compared to many other countries on the list, these prices are extremely favourable, and may only get better depending on the currency you

From family-friendly spaces to stunning art institutions, there are a vast array of museums in Tokyo, with many of them located in Ueno. The area’s huge park is home to six long-standing museums, while there are many other cultural facilities dotted around the neighbourhood for you to enjoy.  One of the best times to visit Ueno is during the Ueno Museum Weeks, which is running now until Sunday May 25. This event coincides with International Museum Day on Sunday May 18, when you can enjoy some of Ueno's most popular museums for free. For the rest of Ueno Museum Weeks, you can join special tours, catch a free concert, and get discounts at participating restaurants and cafés. Photo: 国立科学博物館National Museum of Nature and Science Specifically on May 18, you can get free entry to the permanent exhibitions at the National Museum of Western Art and the National Museum of Nature and Science. Additionally, you can enter Tokyo National Museum’s general cultural exhibitions for free on the same day. As for Ueno Museum Weeks in general, you can redeem coupons for free drinks and discounts at restaurants in the neighbourhood, including yoshoku (Japanese-style Western food) restaurant Kurofune-tei and yakiniku eatery Taishoen. These deals are available until May 25. To claim this offer, just show the coupon page of the Ueno Museum Weeks website at the participating restaurants. For more details, visit the website.  This article was published on May 13 2024 and updated on May 13 2025. More

In Tokyo you’ll be spoilt for choice. For instance, you could take in the cityscape from Tokyo’s many indoor observation decks, but with this lovely spring weather, we’d much prefer lounging at a sky-high outdoor terrace. You’ll still get an unobstructed aerial view of Tokyo’s dynamic skyline, plus you can put that observatory entry fee towards getting drinks and snacks instead. Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi as well as The Tokyo Edition, Ginza have opened their outdoor terraces for the season. They each offer a different view of the city, along with a well-curated food and drink menu that will have you chilling from lunch to sunset. Photo: Four Seasons OtemachiThe outdoor terrace at Four Seasons Otemachi's Pigneto restaurant Pigneto at Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi The terrace at Four Season Otemachi’s Italian restaurant Pigneto is perched on the 39th floor, 200 metres above the bustling streets of Tokyo’s financial district. From this height, you’re very much guaranteed a front row seat to Tokyo’s contrasting skyline – the downtown skyscrapers as well as the lush gardens of the Imperial Palace, which is just a few steps away from the hotel. On good days, if you’re lucky, you might even spot Mt Fuji in the distance. Photo: Four Seasons Here you could treat yourself to a three- or four-course prix fixe lunch (from ¥6,800, last orders at 2.30pm) of classic Italian dishes but reimagined with local seasonal produce. Or choose from a selection of sharing-style pa

Now that Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai is well underway, there’s no better time to explore Osaka and enjoy the many must-see attractions and events centered around this momentous event. When you’re there, one thing’s for certain: you’ll definitely come across Myaku-Myaku, the blue and red shape-shifting Expo mascot who’s become a beloved character all across Japan. You’ll find Myaku-Myaku on pretty much all the Expo-themed merchandise created especially for the event, from cute plushies and daruma dolls to collaboration items with your favourite Sanrio characters.  Hoping to cop some cool collectibles and merch while you’re visiting the Expo? Here are our top picks. Photo: Heso Holdings Co., Ltd. Myaku-Myaku backpack, pouch and plushie For something both fun and cuddly, these Myaku-Myaku plushies are a perfect pick – especially the two that double as a backpack and pouch. Each features the beloved mascot in its classic smiling form, and the bag versions offer a playful yet practical alternative to the standard plush toy. From ¥4,500 Photo: Dai Nippon Printing (DNP) Myaku-Myaku Tamagotchi In celebration of Tamagotchi’s 28th anniversary, the nostalgic egg-shaped toy has received a special Myaku-Myaku makeover. The limited-edition Expo version features a cute designed shell with Tamagotchi characters playfully wearing Myaku-Myaku on their heads. ¥5,500 Photo: 2025 Osaka Kansai Expo Master License Office Myaku-Myaku x Sanrio keyrings Ever since Hello Kitty celebrated her 50th ann

If you’ve already seen Tokyo’s most famous tourist attractions, you’ll want to set your sights on some of the more remote locations in and around the capital. One such spot is the otherworldly Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel in Kasukabe, Saitama prefecture.  Affectionately known as the Disaster Prevention Underground Temple, the tunnel is a whopping 50 metres underground and is used to prevent flooding in the Greater Tokyo area during a major natural disaster such as a tsunami or typhoon. When not in use, the massive tunnel is open to the public for viewing. Its towering architecture has made it a popular spot for visitors – it has even been used as a filming location for music videos and other projects. Photo: Manuelascanio/Dreamstime The best way to explore the Disaster Prevention Underground Temple is by joining a guided tour, such as the Underground Temple Course, which costs just ¥1,000 per person and takes about 55 minutes. On the tour, you can learn about the facility and explore at your own leisure.  Longer tours are available, too, including the Pit Experience Course (¥3,000 for 110 minutes) for a visit to the drain's 70m-deep shaft. There's also the Impeller Exploration Course (¥4,000 for 110 minutes) for those who want to explore the pressure regulating tank.  The newest of these tours is the Underground River Walking Adventure Course (¥15,000 for 240 minutes), where you can explore previously off-limits areas, including walking through an u

Tokyo is home to some incredible spaces where you can get a jaw-dropping view of the city skyline. One of the most popular places to take in the views is at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, where you’ll find two free observatories on the 45th floor of both the north and south towers. Photo: Kisa Toyoshima The South Observatory closed temporarily for renovations earlier this year, but it officially reopened its doors on Wednesday April 23. In addition to providing one of the city’s best views, the South Observatory is now also home to Gift Shop Tokyo Mikke!, a brand new souvenir shop and café located in the centre of the picturesque space.  Photo: Kisa Toyoshima Along with browsing fun merchandise like lucky daruma dolls and Edo Kiriko glassware, you can order from a selection of food and beverages including coffee, sake, soft serve ice cream, takoyaki, and even traditional Japanese sweets like fish-shaped taiyaki cakes. Photo: Kisa Toyoshima At the centre of the shop you’ll find a dedicated space stocked with Time Out Tokyo magazines and guide maps, which you can of course pick up for free. Digital screens nearby showcase tourist information curated by us, highlighting top things to do around the city – like discovering Tokyo’s most beautiful gardens. Photo: Kisa Toyoshima The 360-degree observation area gives you a look at the city from many different angles. You can catch views of some of Tokyo’s most iconic buildings and attractions, including Tokyo Skyt

If you’re a Pokémon fan, Tokyo is your ultimate playground. Starting with Shibuya's expansive Pokémon Center and the numerous Poké Lid manhole covers dotted around the city, there’s endless pocket-monster fun waiting to be discovered. For the ultimate Pokémon city getaway, you can now book Pokémon room packages at Grand Hyatt Tokyo, with stays available between June 20 to August 31.   Following the adorable Pokémon Sleep rooms from last year, this year’s offering is inspired by tropical island vibes and features fun beach-themed décor, original Pokémon amenities and even a tasty pocket monster-inspired food menu.  ©Pokémon. ©Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK inc.「ポケモン コラボレーション サマー 2025」 The Pokémon Beach Resort Suite Stay gives you a chance to stay in the hotel's one and only Pokémon suite, which has been decked out to look like a luxurious island hideaway with palm trees, tropical plants and an ocean-inspired rug. Most importantly, you can relax with the cuddly giant Snorlax and Lapras plushies featured in the suite’s living room.  ©Pokémon. ©Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK inc.「ポケモン コラボレーション サマー 2025」 Guests staying in the suite will receive original collaboration amenities including a Pokémon French bathrobe, beach towel, beach bag, cap and oversized T-shirt. You can also bring home the smaller Pikachu and Piplup plushies in the room. ©Pokémon. ©Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK inc.「ポケモン コラボレーション サマー 2025」 Those staying in the suite will be treated to a special