Lim Chee Wah

Osaka is famous for its food, but its cultural scene is just as vibrant. As the heart of the Kansai region, the city is packed with museums and galleries presenting a diverse array of exhibitions year-round – from contemporary installations and immersive digital art to thought-provoking commentary and timeless traditional works. With so much to explore, we’re here to help you focus on the most exciting and worthwhile shows. Browse our curated list below and get ready to be inspired by Osaka’s dynamic art world. RECOMMENDED: The 15 best museums in Osaka

Looking for the best things to do in Osaka this weekend? With cooler temperatures setting in, it’s the ideal time to get back outside and rediscover everything the city has to offer. Whether you’re planning ahead or searching for fun things to do in Osaka today, we’ve rounded up the most exciting events, festivals and activities happening across town. From art exhibitions to lively festivals and free cultural experiences, Osaka is buzzing with energy this weekend. Scroll down to explore our curated list of the best things to do in Osaka and start planning your perfect weekend now. RECOMMENDED: 100 must-go restaurants in Osaka

This list is from 2024. Our latest ranking for 2025 is live here. In 2024, what exactly makes a neighbourhood cool? Craft breweries, natty wine bars and street art are well and good, but the world’s best, most exciting and downright fun neighbourhoods are much more than identikit ‘hipster hubs’. They’re places that reflect the very best of their cities – its culture, community spirit, nightlife, food and drink – all condensed in one vibey, walkable district. To create our annual ranking, we went straight to the experts – our global team of on-the-ground writers and editors – and asked them what the coolest neighbourhood in their city is right now, and why. Then we narrowed down the selection and ranked the list using the insight and expertise of Time Out’s global editors, who vetted each neighbourhood against criteria including food, drink, arts, culture, street life, community and one-of-a-kind local flavour. The result? A list that celebrates the most unique and exciting pockets of our cities – and all their quirks. Yes, you’ll find some of those international hallmarks of ‘cool’. But in every neighbourhood on this list there’s something you won’t find anywhere else. Ever been to a photography museum that moonlights as a jazz club? Or a brewery with a library of Russian literature? How about a festival dedicated to fluff? When communities fiercely support and rally around their local businesses, even the most eccentric ideas can become a reality. And that, in our eyes, is

Launched in 2023, Tokyo Gendai may be a relatively young art fair, but it’s quickly establishing itself as one of the most exciting events on Tokyo’s art calendar. Now in its third year, the fair continues to bring a fresh perspective to the art market, with a dynamic roster of local and international galleries, plus a robust programme that this year promises to be even more immersive and diverse than before. Held from September 12 to 14 at Pacifico Yokohama, the three-day fair will connect Japan with an international network of galleries, artists, collectors and art enthusiasts. You can expect not only a wide-ranging gallery showcase but also an engaging line-up of curated exhibitions, talks, installations and performance art. Moreover, making their debut this year are a curator symposium as well as the Hana Artist Award, which celebrates emerging and mid-career artists. Here are three special events in Tokyo Gendai’s line-up that make it an art fair not to be missed.

タイムアウト大阪 > Things to Do >大阪、2025年オープンのベストホテル5選 2025年は、大阪の時代といってもいい。「2025年日本国際博覧会（大阪・関西万博）」が大阪を世界的な注目を浴びる舞台に押し上げている中で、今年は活気あふれる関西の拠点・大阪を訪れる絶好のタイミングだ。 大阪では、増加する訪問者に対応するため、数多くの魅力的なホテルが次々とオープンしている。自然を満喫できる郊外の旅館、デザイン重視のデジタルノマド向けのホテル、あるいは息をのむようなスカイラインの景色を望む豪華なスイートルームといった、今年大阪で予約すべき注目のホテルが本記事で揃っている。 関連記事『大阪でしかできない50のこと』

ทงคัตสึ ถือเป็นอาหารญี่ปุ่นยอดนิยมที่หลายคนคุ้นเคย ด้วยศิลปะการทานที่เราสามารถเลือกทานได้ตามใจชอบ ตั้งแต่การเลือกส่วนของหมู ซอส และเครื่องปรุงต่างๆ แต่ในต้นตำรับอย่างประเทศญี่ปุ่น ได้พาให้เมนูหมูชุบแป้งทอดที่เหมือนจะธรรมดา ให้กลายเป็นเมนูที่ซับซ้อนและมีมิติมากยิ่งขึ้น โดยในญี่ปุ่นมักเลือกใช้เนื้อหมูหลากหลายสายพันธุ์ที่คัดสรรมาเป็นอย่างดี เพื่อตอบโจทย์คนรักทงคัตสึที่มีความชอบแตกต่างกัน มีทั้งหมูเกรดพรีเมียมไขมันน้อย ไขมันเยอะ ไปจนถึงหมูที่มีรสชาติหวานเฉพาะตัว ทานคู่กับเครื่องเคียงที่เติมได้ไม่อั้นอย่างกะหล่ำปลีสดหั่นฝอย ข้าวญี่ปุ่นเรียงเม็ด และซุปมิโสะรสเข้มข้น หรือบางร้านก็มีเครื่องเคียงพิเศษที่หาไม่ได้จากร้านอื่น!

This is Osaka’s moment. With the Osaka Expo putting the city in the global spotlight, 2025 is the perfect time to visit this vibrant Kansai hub. In response, the city has rolled out a host of exciting new hotel openings to cater to the growing wave of visitors. Whether you're seeking a nature escape just outside the city, a design-forward stay for digital nomads, or a luxurious suite with jaw-dropping skyline views, these are the standout new places to book in Osaka this year. RECOMMENDED: 8 reasons why Osaka is so hot right now

One of the most iconic summer festivals in Tokyo, Bon Odori is a communal dance performed in public spaces. It's a Buddhist custom that dates back 500 years, held as part of the Obon period, where locals honour the spirits of their ancestors. Bon Odori festivals are always a fun, joyous affair. A makeshift stage known as a yagura will be set up in the middle, acting as the focal point of the event. It houses the lead dancers and musicians who set the pace and choreography for the dance while participants gather around it and dance along in circles. It's a perfect way to spend a summer evening and soak up the good vibes. So put on a yukata and come join us at one of Tokyo's most exciting Bon Odori festivals this summer. RECOMMENDED: 10 best fireworks festivals in and near Tokyo this summer

Omakase? In this economy? We know it’s hard to believe, but there are plenty of fine dining restaurants in Tokyo where you can treat yourself to a seasonal course dinner for less than ¥10,000. The word ‘omakase’ typically comes up at high-end Japanese restaurants where in lieu of ordering from a menu, diners entrust the chef to serve a selection of recommended dishes and seasonal specials. While it's true that these gastronomic affairs are generally reserved for a special occasion splurge, they don’t have to break the bank. Nor are they strictly limited to Japanese cuisine.  Omakase dining is all about the joy of anticipating what the chef might serve, marvelling at the near-choreographed way they work in the open kitchen, and savouring the best ingredients of the season. It’s a culture that chefs across Tokyo hold dearly, with many incorporating omakase into their restaurants regardless of whether they’re serving Spanish tapas or charcoal-grilled yakitori.  With so many restaurants offering their own interpretation of omakase dining, the line between omakase courses and tasting menus are sometimes blurred. However, it’s the integrity and intimacy of these tailored dining experiences that define them, rather than the terms used to label them. Want to treat yourself on a budget? Here are Tokyo’s best omakase courses and tasting menus for under ¥10,000. Looking for something quick and simple but still delicious? Try one of these 22 best ramen in Tokyo

The longest stretch of public holidays in Japan, the annual Golden Week happens at the end of April through early May. It's made up of four special days: Showa Day (April 29), Constitution Day (May 3), Greenery Day (May 4) and Children’s Day (May 5). Greenery Day was originally gazetted as a celebration of Emperor Showa's (1901 to 1989) birthday. It was later renamed Greenery Day, and as its name suggests, this is a day to appreciate nature and relish in the great outdoors. Better yet, on this day, many of Tokyo's top nature attractions, such as parks and gardens including a zoo and an aquarium, will be offering free entry. So slap on some sunscreen – we're going out to these lush green attractions in Tokyo on Sunday May 4 2025. It's one of the best days of the year to explore Tokyo for free. Recommended: Looking to pack in more over the holidays? Here are the best events in Tokyo during Golden Week 2025.

Sakura, or cherry blossoms, are synonymous with Japan. Mention spring and, chances are, you'll imagine trees bursting with delicate blooms of white and pink lining the rivers and dotting the parks everywhere in Tokyo. There's a ritual of sorts (known as hanami) that locals adhere to when enjoying this fleeting season, which lasts only for a couple of weeks at most. However, rest assured, even after the flowers have withered, you'll still find the essence of the season in the city's many food and drink offerings, from sakura-flavoured lattes to pretty desserts featuring the beautiful petals.  Here we've pulled together a guide to help you make the most of the sakura season – yes, Instagram inspiration included. Plus, we've also compiled a list of sakura facts that will make you seem like an expert in no time. ALSO SEE: The official Japan cherry blossom forecast for 2025

Everyone knows what great pizza means to them. It could have a paper-thin, crispy base or one so doughy it’s comparable to a pillow; it could be an abundance of vegetables and cured meats or simply a great, classic margherita (for the purists). Some of us even crave a bit of pizza-induced controversy (fans of a white base or those who opt for a pineapple topping, we’re looking at you).  But no matter your preference, whether it’s socially acceptable or totally unhinged to everybody else, you’ll find your perfect pizza pie somewhere in the world, and somewhere on this list, too. That’s because we’ve asked our travel writers and international editorial staff about their absolute favourite spots for when they’re craving a pizza, from Cape Town to Lisbon, Buenos Aires to Miami. We hope you’re hungry – don your napkin and read on for the world’s very best pizzas.  RECOMMENDED:🥪The best sandwiches in the world🥩The best steaks in the world🍝The best cities in the world for food This list was edited by Liv Kelly, a writer for Time Out Travel. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.

As Osaka is famously known as ‘the nation’s kitchen’, it’s only natural that the city boasts a shopping street devoted to cooking and kitchenware. The 150-metre-long Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street is where chefs, restaurateurs and home cooks alike come to outfit their kitchens. You’ll find everything from ceramic bowls and lacquerware to coffee- and tea-brewing equipment, bento boxes and Sakai-made speciality knives, to name just a few. If it belongs in a kitchen, you’ll likely find it here.

As Osaka is famously known as ‘the nation’s kitchen’, it’s only natural that the city boasts a shopping street devoted to cooking and kitchenware. The 150-metre-long Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street is where chefs, restaurateurs and home cooks alike come to outfit their kitchens. You’ll find everything from ceramic bowls and lacquerware to coffee- and tea-brewing equipment, bento boxes and Sakai-made speciality knives, to name just a few. If it belongs in a kitchen, you’ll likely find it here. Once a year in October, this kitchenware arcade hosts the lively Doguyasuji Festival (affectionately known as ‘Tool Day’). This year’s event takes place on Saturday October 11. The 2025 theme roughly translates to ‘Everyone’s Tool Challenge’, with activities designed to test your cooking skills through a series of fun and quirky contests inspired by kitchen tools. There’s a bean-picking competition, a hamburger tower race, and, of course, the Tekokakote Tournament – an original Doguyasuji-created card game that quizzes players on their knowledge of kitchen utensils and the culinary arts. These activities are both fun and educational, definitely suitable for all ages. The ever-popular Garapon Grand Lottery also makes its return. Simply present a same-day shopping receipt worth ¥500 or more to enter the draw for a chance to win shopping vouchers and exclusive Doguyasuji merchandise. Whether you’re a professional chef, a food enthusiast or simply in search of a practical souvenir, th

Japan’s traditional woodblock print, ukiyo-e is hailed as one of the country’s three great art forms, alongside maki-e lacquerware and Imari porcelain. Developed during the Edo period (1603–1868), it’s characterised by clean lines, bold compositions, vivid colours and a distinctive absence of shadow.  Ukiyo-e works often portray popular culture, scenic landscapes and urban life, with a particular fondness for depicting actors and beautiful women, which is why this art form was frequently used to create kabuki show posters. What makes ukiyo-e even more special is that the creation of a single print requires close collaboration among four parties: the publisher, artist, carver and printer. You can marvel at the colourful world of ukiyo-e at this limited-time exhibition and sale, held in the third-floor event space at Daimaru Umeda department store. Around 40 works will be on display, all available for purchase – should you wish to invest a few hundred thousand yen, or perhaps over a million, for a collector’s piece from one of Japan’s most celebrated art forms. The selection on display showcases a wide range of subjects, including portraits and landscapes of the Kansai and Tokaido regions. Keep an eye out for pieces centred on street scenes of old Osaka featuring Daimaru’s original store, as these reflect the flourishing merchant culture of the time.

Founded in Tokyo’s Jimbocho district in 2015, Glitch Coffee was among the pioneers of Japan’s single-origin coffee scene. While much of the country continues to favour European-style dark roasts, Glitch has built a strong reputation for its unwavering focus on light roasts that showcase the distinctive terroir of each bean. This meticulous commitment to purity and precision has earned it a loyal following. Both of its Tokyo locations – the original in Jimbocho and another in upmarket Ginza – regularly draw long queues of coffee enthusiasts eager to savour its expertly brewed hand-drip coffee. You can experience this uniquely Japanese approach to coffee at Glitch’s sole Kansai outpost. Located on the ground floor of the Festival Tower West building in Nakanoshima, the coffee shop is bright and spacious, with natural light pouring through its floor-to-ceiling glass walls. Ample seating including plush sofas and lounge chairs makes it the perfect place to unwind over a quality brew after visiting the nearby art museums. Glitch offers around 30 varieties of house-roasted beans, with roughly half available to enjoy in-store as hand-drip coffee, served hot or iced. Each bean is clearly labelled with details including variety, growing altitude, processing method and flavour profile. The knowledgeable baristas are always on hand to guide you through the extensive selection. For true coffee aficionados, this is the place to geek out.

Born in Osaka, Yasumasa Morimura is one of the most compelling Japanese artists of our time. A conceptual photographer, filmmaker and visual artist, Morimura is best known for appropriating iconic Western paintings and classic imagery from history and popular culture. He inserts himself into these works as a form of self-portraiture through expert use of props, costumes, make-up and digital manipulation. Since the debut of Portrait (Van Gogh) in 1985, Morimura has produced self-portraits based on works by renowned artists such as Frida Kahlo, Diego Velázquez, Johannes Vermeer and many more. While often cheeky, witty and even humorous, his meticulous recreations of some of the art world’s most recognisable masterpieces not only challenge our relationship with the originals but also highlight Japan’s fascination with Western culture. Marking the 40th anniversary of his career, Morimura has organised this retrospective exhibition to showcase one work from each year between 1985 and 2024. Here, you can also explore a chronological timeline of his artistic journey, view four of his personal favourite pieces, and discover previously unreleased works for the first time. Note: the exhibition is open from 11am to 7pm on Sunday November 9, and 12noon to 3pm on Saturday December 6

The 1925 International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts held in Paris was a landmark event in art history. It marked the launch of the Art Deco movement, one of the most influential design styles of the 20th century. For its centenary celebration in 2025, the Nakanoshima Museum of Art is hosting a special exhibition focused on the graphic art and design of the era, with a particular emphasis on its portrayal of women. You can expect to see rare and exquisite Art Deco works from across Europe, especially France, including jewellery, perfume bottles, dresses and classic cars. The exhibition also features around 100 vintage posters that capture the glamorous image of the modern woman as envisioned a century ago. Note: This exhibition is closed on Mondays (except October 13, November 3, November 24) as well as October 14, November 4, November 25, December 30, December 31 and January 1. 

After a series of high-profile exhibitions at Tokyo’s Ginza Six and Saitama’s Hyper Museum Hanno, Kenji Yanobe is bringing his signature cat-astronauts, known as Ship’s Cat, to Osaka. Born in Osaka, Kenji Yanobe is known for his functional mechanical sculptures. Ship’s Cat, arguably his most popular work to date, is an ongoing series that began in 2017. These regal ‘catstronauts’ are imagined as guardian spirits for travellers. One edition, Ship’s Cat (Muse), now stands outside the Nakanoshima Museum of Art, Osaka as a permanent installation. Held at MASK (Mega Art Storage Kitakagaya), a repurposed art warehouse formerly used for steel processing, this exhibition revolves around Luca, the solar tower-shaped spaceship first seen in the now-concluded Big Cat Bang exhibition at Ginza Six. It’s displayed alongside other sculptures from the Ship’s Cat series, as well as works by other artists from MASK’s collection. The exhibition is free, except for the opening event (Saturday October 4, 7pm–8.30pm), which features a talk by Yanobe himself and live performances. Advance tickets are available via Peatix for ¥2,000.

Located in Osaka prefecture’s Sakai city – just a short train ride away from central Osaka – Mozu Hachiman Shrine’s annual autumn festival takes place around the 15th day of the eighth month in the lunar calendar. For this reason, it’s also known as the Moon-viewing Festival, or Tsukimi Matsuri. This year, the festival falls on Monday October 6. The main festivities take place over the weekend of October 4–5, centered around the shrine’s iconic Futon Daiko. This traditional portable float features a large taiko drum set on an ornate base with intricate carvings, topped by five red cushion-like tiers resembling futons, hence the name Futon Daiko. Standing about 4 metres tall and weighing roughly 2 tons, each float is carried by a team of 60 to 70 people. On Saturday October 4, the floats will make their way into the shrine grounds one by one, in hourly intervals from 11am until 10.30pm.  On Sunday October 5, each float will parade on the shrine grounds for about an hour between 9am and 10pm. In between, from 11am to 11.30am, you can witness a Shinto ritual where children release young fish into the shrine’s Hojo Pond as a prayer for the prosperity of all living creatures. Finally, on Monday October 6, the day of the full harvest moon, the shrine will host a formal Shinto ceremony, which includes a ritual visit by an imperial envoy from Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine.

Held three times a year in Tokyo and Osaka, Washu Fes returns to Kansai this October for a weekend celebration of Japanese sake. This autumn edition will feature over 120 varieties of sake, shochu and cider from 26 renowned and award-winning breweries, including the likes of Kiminoi (Niigata), Iwanoi (Chiba) and Fukukomachi (Akita), to name just a few. In keeping with the season, expect autumn brews alongside aged and warm sake, some of which will also be available for purchase by the bottle. A ¥3,400 pass grants access to all tastings. For international visitors, the organisers are offering a special ticket priced at ¥4,500, which includes tastings at all vendors, a bottle of water, a special sake cup and a sake guidebook. To round out the experience, Washu Fes will also feature live stage performances and food stalls serving local specialities, seasonal dishes and snacks that pair perfectly with sake. Washu Fes is divided into two sessions each day: 12noon–2.10pm and 3pm–5.10pm. Each session requires a separate ticket.

With the pleasant autumn weather now upon us, there’s no better time to enjoy a cold pint or two in the open air. Craft Beer Holiday 2025 shares that sentiment, bringing together some of Japan’s top craft breweries to one convenient, city-centre location – at the JR Osakajokoen Station plaza right outside the iconic Osaka Castle. Among the breweries you’ll find are Island Brewery from Nagasaki, Ape Brewing from Osaka, Hansharo Beer from Shizuoka, Fill Brewing from Okinawa, and Yoho Brewing from Nagano, just to name a few. To make this a fun day out for craft beer lovers, the event will also feature food stalls, live music performances, workshops and more. Beer is served in plastic cups, and you’re encouraged to wash them at designated stations and reuse them to help reduce waste. Entry is free, but food and drinks require tickets: ¥800 for a single ticket, or ¥2,100 for a set of three. Please note that the event is cashless, so be sure to have your credit/debit cards or electronic payment options ready.

One of Osaka’s youngest fireworks festivals, Art Night in the Sky at Expo ‘70 Park returns for its fourth consecutive year after debuting in 2022. While most fireworks displays in Japan are held during the summer, this event takes place in autumn for a cooler experience. With all seats reserved and the seating now located at the park’s Momijigawa Lawn Area, spectators are brought closer to the fireworks launch site, resulting in a more immersive viewing experience than in previous years. On this special evening, renowned pyrotechnicians from the Kansai region will come together to present a breathtaking music-synchronised fireworks display. Over 15,000 shells of fireworks will be launched, perfectly timed to the music with precision down to 1/100 of a second. The evening will also feature a 3D drone art show that transforms the night sky into a vast canvas for grand-scale visuals. Although the fireworks display only begins at 7pm, the gates open at noon for guests to enjoy the Hokusetsu Cultural Festival filled with food and drinks and entertainment. Tickets start at ¥8,800 for adults and ¥4,400 for children. For a luxurious experience, the VIP Area seats are available from ¥55,000, which include refreshments, access to private restrooms, parking and additional perks. Tickets are now available online.

Night Park at Grand Green Osaka is billed by its organisers as an ‘urban night economy experiment’. The project features a programme of innovative, after-dark experiences designed to explore the area's potential after sundown. A highlight of the event is ‘Echo’, an interactive installation by Montreal-based start-up Mirari, found on the first floor of the South Building at Grand Green Osaka. This award-winning multidisciplinary studio is known for their large-scale multimedia works and immersive environments that transform spaces into sensory experiences. Though minimalist in appearance, 'Echo' uses advanced technology to translate sound into pulses of light, creating a mesmerising visualisation of human communication. Other elements of the Night Park project include takeaway dining in collaboration with Time Out Market Osaka as well as a selection of public art programmes to help boost the area’s nighttime appeal.

Fireworks festivals are traditionally a summer affair in Japan, but if you skipped them this year, we don’t blame you. With record-breaking heat across the country, staying indoors was the sensible thing to do. The good news is that fireworks season isn’t quite over yet – at least not in Osaka. The city will host three major pyrotechnic events this November, just as the weather begins to cool. Even better, two of them offer more than just dazzling displays. Gates open early in the afternoon, giving you plenty of time to enjoy live performances, food trucks and fun activities before sundown. It’s the perfect day out before thick jacket season sets in. These three fireworks festivals here are ticketed events, and they’re selling fast. So if you want to squeeze in one last fireworks show before the year ends, now’s the time to book. Oh, and one more thing — one of the displays will be synchronised to Bruno Mars’s greatest hits. That’s going to be quite special! Photo: Osaka Art Fireworks Osaka Arts Fireworks 2025, November 1 Taking place at Marble Beach in Rinku Park, in the Osaka prefecture city of Izumisano, Osaka Art Fireworks blends pyrotechnics with music to create a richer, more immersive show. According to the organisers, the fireworks will be computer-controlled and so precisely choreographed that they’ll be in perfect sync with the rhythm and vocals of the accompanying music. This 60-minute show is produced by the Sapporo-based fireworks collective Great Sky Art, who

世界的に活躍するアート集団・チームラボの最新施設「チームラボ バイオヴォルテックス 京都」が、2025年10月7日にオープンした。京都駅から徒歩圏内に位置し、京都駅東南部エリア開発プロジェクトの一環として誕生したこのミュージアムは、総面積約1万平方メートルに及び、50点以上の作品を展示。日本最大規模を誇るチームラボの常設施設となる。 本施設のテーマは「環境現象（Environmental Phenomena）」。主要作品の多くは固定された形や物質的な実体を持たず、空気・光・水・泡といった自然の要素との相互作用によってその存在を形作っている。訪れる人や周囲の環境に応じて姿を絶えず変え続ける、そんなインスタレーションの世界を想像してほしい。 非常にコンセプチュアルで幻想的な空間が広がる同施設では、日本初公開作品や2つの世界初公開『作品を含む複数の新作が登場。本記事では、その中でも特に圧倒的な没入体験を提供する注目の作品を紹介する。 質量も形もない彫刻／Massless Amorphous Sculpture（日本初公開） © teamLab『Massless Amorphous Sculpture』 泡の塊が漂う、エネルギーの物理的具現化ともいえる作品。訪れる人や周囲の環境に応じて、その形や存在は絶えず変化し続ける。 開いた宇宙の永遠の存在の中のメガリス／Megaliths in the Eternal Existence of the Open Universe（世界初公開） © teamLab『Megaliths in the Eternal Existence of the Open Universe』 まるでSF映画のワンシーンを思わせる対話型インスタレーション。本作は、チームラボ バイオヴォルテックス 京都のために特別に制作された。 生と回帰の無常の抽象／Transient Abstract Life and Return（世界初公開） © teamLab『Transient Abstract Life and Return』 溶岩の海や黄金の液体の中に足を踏み入れたかのような感覚を味わわせる、圧倒的な没入型アートだ。 変容する連続体／Morphing Continuum © teamLab『Morphing Continuum』 凝固した光の海／Sea of Solidified Light © teamLab『Sea of Solidified Light』 痕跡／Traces of Life © teamLab『Traces of Life』 内に秘めた輝き／Silent Radiance Within © teamLab『Silent Radiance Within』 空の海の記憶／Memory of Waves in the Sky © teamLab『Memory of Waves in the Sky』 Infinite Crystal World © teamLab『Infinite Crystal World』 Forest of Flow and Light © teamLab『Forest of Flow and Light』 質量のない太陽と闇の太陽／Massless Suns and Dark Suns © teamLab『Massless Suns and Dark Suns』 呼応するランプの森／Forest of Resonating

Japan's most popular Unesco World Heritage Site, Kyoto is currently riding a major tourism boom. But with the influx of visitors comes serious congestion – on public buses, along scenic streets like Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, and at ancient temples. In response, local councils have implemented several measures to help manage the crowds, including the introduction of special sightseeing buses catering to tourist needs. Now, as the latest countermeasure against overtourism, Kyoto is set to increase its accommodation tax by up to 900 percent, from ¥1,000 to ¥10,000 per person per night for the top category of hotels. The raise was proposed early this year and it’s now approved by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications. Set to take effect on March 1 2026, this hike will make Kyoto’s accommodation tax the highest in Japan. But don’t panic just yet. This is still a staggered tax system and the top-tier ¥10,000 rate only applies to luxury hotel rooms priced at ¥100,000 or above per night.  Here’s the new accommodation tax breakdown: Budget hotels under ¥6,000 per night: tax remains at ¥200 per person per night Mid-range stays between ¥6,000 and ¥19,999: tax increases from ¥200 to ¥400 Hotels priced at ¥20,000 to ¥49,999: tax goes from ¥500 to ¥1,000 Stays from ¥50,000 to ¥99,999: levy jumps from ¥1,000 to ¥4,000 Luxury accommodation at ¥100,000 and above: tax surges from ¥1,000 to ¥10,000 per person per night According to Asahi Shimbun, the Kyoto city government plans

Kyoto is one of Japan's most popular destinations, and with its crowds, it’s often worth venturing off the beaten path to discover hidden local gems. If this is your kind of travel, don’t miss the Awata Festival in mid-October, held at the lesser-known Awata Shrine in Kyoto's northern Higashiyama ward. The Awata Festival has a history dating back 1,000 years and is celebrated each autumn to pray for protection against plagues and diseases. While there are several events tied to the festival, the main highlight is the parade of massive lantern floats known as Awata Dai-Toro during the Yomawari Shinji, or Night Procession. Photo: Ryo Yoshimi These awe-inspiring, larger-than-life lanterns mostly take the form of mythological creatures and deities. They are handcrafted using traditional Japanese paper and painted in vibrant colours. If they remind you of the famous Nebuta Festival in Aomori, you’re not mistaken. The locals believe that the Awata Dai-Toro are an early prototype of the Nebuta floats. Though historical records trace the Awata Dai-Toro back to 1567, the tradition disappeared for nearly 180 years. In 2008, Kyoto University of the Arts revived this long-lost tradition through the Awata Great Lantern Project. Photo: Ryo Yoshimi Each year, students from the university work alongside the local community to create new lanterns for the night procession. This year will see the debut of three new floats, and the students will also participate in the procession, proudly ca

With trees turning vibrant shades of yellow, red and orange, autumn is one of the most beautiful times to visit Japan. Each year around this time, the Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC) releases its highly anticipated autumn leaves forecast to help us plan our seasonal sightseeing. Just as we begin to ease out of Japan’s hottest summer on record, forecasters are now predicting an unusually short autumn, followed by a sudden plunge into winter temperatures. As a result of these climate shifts, JMC expects the autumn foliage to arrive later than usual. So when can you expect to see the gorgeous red momiji and golden ginkgo leaves in Osaka, Kyoto and other destinations across the Kansai region? Here's what the official 2025 JMC forecast says. Photo: Japan Meteorological Corporation Yellow ginkgo leaves In the Kansai region, Kobe is expected to see yellow ginkgo leaves first, around November 15, two days later than usual. In Osaka, the ginkgo trees are forecast to turn yellow around November 24, while in Kyoto, colour is expected around November 28 – that’s two and four days later than average, respectively. Nara’s golden hues are forecast to arrive five days late on November 23. Meanwhile, Wakayama is set to see yellow ginkgo leaves about four days behind the norm, around November 27.  Photo: Japan Meteorological Corporation Red momiji leaves The Japanese maple, or momiji, is expected to experience a bigger delay, with Kyoto and Wakayama forecast to see their red leaves

teamLab Biovortex Kyoto, the world-conquering art collective’s latest attraction, will finally open on Tuesday October 7. Located just a short walking distance from Kyoto Station, as part of the city’s Southeast Kyoto Station Area Development Project, this permanent museum spans a sprawling 10,000 square metres and hosts over 50 artworks, making it the largest teamLab museum in Japan.  This Kyoto facility revolves around the novel concept of ‘Environmental Phenomena’. Most of the key works here aren’t solid in shape and material, as their existence arises from interacting with environmental factors. So think of installations that are made of air, light, water and bubbles, whose dynamic forms shift and change continuously according to their surroundings. Highly conceptual and ethereal, teamLab Biovortex Kyoto will unveil several new works for the first time, including a Japan debut and two world premieres. Here are some of the most mind-blowing installations you’ll find at this new teamLab museum in Kyoto. © teamLabMassless Amorphous Sculpture Massless Amorphous Sculpture – Japan debut A floating mass of bubbles that’s a physical embodiment of energy. Its shape and existence shift constantly in response to the environment and the people who enter its space. © teamLabMegaliths Megaliths – world premiere This interactive installation, looking like a scene from a sci-fi film, is created specifically for this Kyoto museum. © teamLabTransient Abstract Life and Return Transien

Amidst the flashy giant signboards of animatronic creatures – like the iconic crab, octopus and dragon – in Dotonbori, there stands a quieter, more dignified landmark. The Osaka Shochikuza Theatre has been a beloved presence for over 100 years, ever since it first opened its doors in 1923. Sadly, this historic kabuki theatre has announced it will close indefinitely in 2026, with its final curtain call scheduled after the May production run. Following that, the entire building, including its underground shops, will be closed due to the ageing condition of its facilities. The company that owns and operates the theatre has stated that plans for the building’s future are still under consideration and have yet to be finalised. As such, the closure remains indefinite for now.  However, the company have also noted that while performances will no longer take place at the Shochikuza Theatre itself, they intend to continue presenting productions including kabuki at other venues across Osaka. Built in the Neo-Renaissance style and designed by renowned architect Tokusaburo Kimura, the Osaka Shochikuza Theatre’s grand architecture has earned it the nickname ‘Dotonbori’s Arc de Triomphe’. When it opened in 1923 as a cinema, it was the first Western-style theatre in western Japan. After extensive refurbishment, it reopened in 1997 as a live performance venue, hosting mainly kabuki productions, musicals and other stage shows. It will be a sad loss for the city to see this iconic building clo

Japan’s leading figure in kawaii culture, Sebastian Masuda is set to revive Kawaii Monster Café, the iconic Harajuku landmark in Tokyo, at the end of the year. But first, he’s unveiled something just as fantastical in the ancient city of Kyoto. Located just one stop from Kyoto Station on the JR Sagano Line – or 20 minutes’ walk from the transport hub – Future Train Kyoto Diner & Cafe bills itself as Japan’s first restaurant on an abandoned railway viaduct. It showcases Masuda’s signature maximalist style: bright, psychedelic colours, retro-futuristic décor, and over-the-top aesthetics. Photo: Future Train Kyoto Diner & Cafe But Future Train isn’t just a cutesy eatery made for the Instagram generation; it also includes an immersive art experience. More significantly, it’s a creative transformation of disused infrastructure and forgotten spaces, turning them into a tourist attraction aimed at revitalising the local community. Photo: Future Train Kyoto Diner & Cafe Future Train is made up of several cars. The first was the front carriage of a decommissioned Thunderbird train, which once ran between Osaka and Tsuruga. It has now been reimagined as the engine room of a futuristic train, brought to life through a blend of art, video, computer graphics, lighting and sound. This vibrant installation is even anchored by a narrative, led by two characters created exclusively for Future Train: the conductor, Birdy Buddy, and her assistant, Pink Bird. Photo: Future Train Kyoto Diner

「2025年日本国際博覧会（大阪・関西万博）」もいよいよ閉幕間近。世界中の人々にとって記憶に残る万博となるべく、会場では最後までさまざまな企画が展開される中、予想外のサプライズコラボレーションによる限定グッズの発売が決定し、話題を呼んでいる。 Photo: Expo 2025 その目玉が、2025年10月1日（水）から登場する「ラブブ」と「ミャクミャク」のフィギュア。ミャクミャクと、世界で大人気の「ブサかわ」キャラクターのラブブが合体した、ここでしか手に入らない特別なアイテムだ。 この「LABUBU MYAKU-MYAKU ストラップ付フィギュア」は、会場内の「関西万博会場内オフィシャルストア 東ゲート店 大丸松坂屋百貨店」でのみ、1日〜11日（土）の期間限定で抽選販売される。  Photo: Expo 2025Osaka Expo East Gate store 抽選の方法は、販売日の9〜13時の間、店舗の外に掲示された二次元コードをスマートフォンで読み取り、LINEアプリを通じて抽選に応募するだけ。当選すると13時30分までにLINEで通知が届き、当選者は店舗で当選番号順に並んで購入するという流れだ。なお、購入できるのは一人1体まで。詳細は、抽選販売ウェブサイトで確認してほしい。 Photo: Expo 2025 フィギュアの高さは約10センチメートル、価格は4,400円（税込み）。数あるラブブのバリエーションの中でも、このミャクミャクエディションは万博会場限定であることから、最も貴重なコレクターアイテムの一つといえるだろう。ぜひ抽選に参加して、超レアなフィギュアを手に入れてみては。 関連記事 『大阪・関西万博、海外パビリオンで手にいれるべき土産8選』 『大阪・関西万博で見逃せない海外グルメ8選』 『大阪、9月に行くべきアート展5選』 『大阪、2025年オープンのベストホテル5選』 

The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is one of Kyoto’s most iconic sights. And as the Unesco World Heritage-listed city grows increasingly popular in the lead-up to autumn, it’s set to become even more crowded. While it may seem counterintuitive to host an event here – potentially drawing even more visitors – the upcoming Arashiyama Bamboo Path night opening aims to address overtourism in a more sustainable way. This October marks the first time in four years that the attraction will host an illumination event, following the conclusion of the Arashiyama Hanatoro winter light-up in 2021. Throughout the month, this beloved bamboo grove will light up after sunset with handcrafted bamboo lanterns, casting a warm glow on the greenery and creating an even more magical atmosphere than during the day. Photo: Arashiyama Bamboo Path This ticketed event is organised by a local committee, with the active participation of residents and businesses. While its main purpose is to ease daytime congestion by spreading out visiting times, the Arashiyama Bamboo Path is also very much community-focused. The bamboo lanterns illuminating the grove are handmade by local residents, and revenue from ticket sales will go towards local causes: preservation of the bamboo grove, restoration of traditional bamboo fences, reforestation of Arashiyama’s national forest, and the maintenance of local amenities such as public toilets and bins. In addition, on selected dates (October 4, 25 and 26), staff and volunteers

As Osaka Expo enters its final stretch before closing on October 13, the world’s fair is pulling out all the stops to ensure it goes down as one of the most memorable Expos ever. Now, with a surprise collaboration no one saw coming, the Expo’s merchandise craze has reached a whole new level. Photo: Expo 2025 On October 1, the Expo will release an ultra-limited edition Labubu Myaku-Myaku figurine – a fusion of the Expo’s shape-shifting mascot, Myaku-Myaku, with the hottest character in the world right now, the ugly-cute Labubu. This exclusive collectible is truly one-of-a-kind. Photo: Expo 2025Osaka Expo East Gate store Just how limited is it? The Labubu Myaku-Myaku figure will only be available at the Expo’s official store at the East Gate, operated by Daimaru Matsuzakaya Department Store, and only from October 1 to October 11. But don’t expect to just walk in and grab one off the shelf – this figurine is sold through a lottery system to keep things fair and exclusive. Here’s how it works: every sale day from 9am to 1pm, a QR code will be displayed outside the store. Scan it with your smartphone to enter the lottery via the Line app (so make sure you have it installed). You can enter once per day, and if you win, you’ll receive a notification on Line by 1.30pm. Winners will then return to the store to queue in the winner’s line and purchase the figurine according to the order of their winning ticket number. Each winner can buy only one figurine. For full details, check th

Bruno Mars sure loves Japan. After a string of sold-out concerts in recent years – and not to mention that infectious Don Quijote jingle in 2024 – the Grammy-winning artist is returning in a whole new way this autumn. This time, he’s lighting up the sky with the Bruno Mars Fireworks Show 2025, a world-first collaboration with Japanese fireworks artisans. Photo: Bruno Mars Fireworks Show 2025 Held first in Saitama on November 1, before moving to Osaka's Sennan Long Park on November 15, the event blends Bruno Mars’s greatest hits with Japan’s world-famous pyrotechnics to create a unique music-led fireworks festival. Each location will feature a different 60-minute setlist of his biggest songs, all choreographed to a mesmerising fireworks display. What’s more, Bruno himself is reportedly involved in the creative direction of the show, so this isn’t just a name licensing deal. Photo: Bruno Mars Fireworks Show 2025Sennan Long Park The Osaka edition promises a resort-style atmosphere set along the beach at Sennan Long Park. Doors open at 3.30pm, with the hour-long fireworks launching at 6.30pm, but there’s plenty to enjoy beforehand. Expect a DJ zone to set the party mood, a food and drink area, a photo booth, and of course, a giant screen playing Bruno Mars’s music videos. Judging from the programme, the event is shaping up to be a fun-filled seaside getaway. Photo: Bruno Mars Fireworks Show 2025 Tickets for the Osaka show range from ¥7,000 up to an eye-watering ¥440,000 for