Lim Chee Wah

While we wait for the cherry blossoms to flower towards the end of the month, there’s still plenty to do in Osaka, especially with plum blossoms now in peak bloom. These beautiful flowers often signal the transition from winter to spring. To help you make the most of March 2026, whether you’re planning ahead or searching for fun things to do in Osaka this weekend, we’ve rounded up the most exciting events, festivals, illuminations and activities happening across the city. From art exhibitions to lively festivals and free cultural experiences, Osaka is always buzzing with energy. Scroll down to explore our curated list of the best things to do in Osaka and start planning your perfect weekend now. RECOMMENDED: Looking for an enjoyable time any day of the week? Explore Dotonbori with our guide

Osaka has a thriving bar scene, with something to suit every mood and occasion. An izakaya serving refreshing lemon sours and hearty okonomiyaki is perfect for a lively night out with friends. A craft beer bar, meanwhile, makes for a great late-afternoon pit stop. But when we’re seeking well-made cocktails – the kind that balance precision and creativity in mixing spirits, liqueurs, mixers and bitters – we make a beeline for the city’s dedicated cocktail dens. In our guide to the best cocktail bars in Osaka, you’ll find places we genuinely enjoy and return to often, as well as spots we’d confidently recommend to our friends. Explore this list of petite hideaways, underground speakeasies and sleek lounges for nights when you’re craving spirited concoctions that push flavour in delectable new directions. We’ve also included an amazing spirit-free bar to prove that somtimes you don't need proof to have a good time. RECOMMENDED: 100 must-go restaurants in Osaka

Osaka is famous for its food – especially takoyaki – 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: 12 best things to do in Nakanoshima, Osaka's museum island

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

Cherry blossoms may be Japan’s most celebrated flower, but in the weeks before they emerge, another bloom appears in their shadow. Plum, or ume, blossoms may resemble sakura in appearance, but they tell an entirely different story – some may even argue that they carry deeper cultural significance.  Flowering in the lingering chill of late winter, when much of nature still looks sparse, frozen and arid, these early blooms symbolise strength and resilience. Plum blossoms also come in a range of colours, from pale pink to deep red, bringing a joyous flush to parks, gardens and temple grounds.  As we wait for sakura season to arrive, plum blossoms are here to notify us that spring is just around the corner. But in the meantime, winter, too, has its own captivating beauty. RECOMMENDED: Check out the 2026 cherry blossom forecast for Osaka and Kyoto

Whether you’re margherita-loving purist or an all-the-toppings enthusiast, a fan of New York-style, Detroit-style, Neapolitan-style or your own whacky style, everybody’s their definition of a dream pizza. But cities all over the world have put their own spin on the dish, too, and that’s why we called on our international network of editors and writers to share the weirdest, tastiest and most lip-smacking pizzas where they live. So, feast your eyes on Time Out’s freshly-baked roundup of the best pizzas on the planet.  RECOMMENDED:🍝The best cities in the world for food🥪The best sandwiches in the world🥩The best steaks in the world This list was edited by Liv Kelly, Time Out’s travel writer. 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.

There’s a lot happening in Kyoto these days. teamLab has recently opened its largest museum in Japan near Kyoto Station, while a new circular bus route now connects many of the city’s central attractions. This year – aside from Kyoto raising its accommodation tax by up to a hefty ¥10,000 per person per night – the city is set to host a series of enriching art and cultural events. There’s plenty to experience in this ancient city beyond its celebrated Unesco World Heritage temples and Zen gardens. So, if you’re visiting the ancient capital in the first half of 2026, you can look forward to immersive theatre and installations, art exhibitions and craft fairs, special temple openings, and more. Whenever you’re ready to take a break from temple-hopping, rest assured: Kyoto still offers no shortage of attractions and things to do.

Osaka is a world-famous food city, and if there’s one dish that represents this Kansai metropolis, it’s takoyaki. These savoury balls are addictive: golden brown on the outside, soft and creamy inside, with a springy piece of octopus at the centre – all slathered with a sweet and savoury barbecue-like sauce, a generous drizzle of mayonnaise and, sometimes, a flutter of shaved katsuobushi (cured and dried bonito) flakes. Often served in a boat-shaped plate of six or more pieces, takoyaki is the ultimate Osaka street food. You’ll find it on seemingly every corner – especially in Dotonbori – making it an easy snack to grab at any time of day. Locals like to say the best takoyaki is simply the one closest to you – and they’re not wrong. Still, there are a few shops we return to time and again: some for their creative twists, others for their convenient locations near nightlife districts and transport hubs. So if you only eat one thing in Osaka – though we highly doubt that’s the case in this food-obsessed city – make it takoyaki. RECOMMENDED: 38 must-go Japanese restaurants in Osaka

January 1 is typically a quiet day across Japan, as New Year’s Day is traditionally reserved for family time. Many people also visit shrines and temples to pray for a good year ahead. This practice is known as hatsumode, the first prayers of the year. Although many shops, restaurants and attractions are closed over the first few days of the New Year, Osaka still offers plenty to do – especially if you're looking to experience traditional New Year festivities like mochi pounding, calligraphy and lion dance. So, after recovering from your New Year’s Eve countdown party, check out these exciting events happening in Osaka over the New Year weekend from January 1–4. RECOMMENDED: 5 best art and cultural events to look forward to in Kyoto in 2026

You can’t say you’ve seen Osaka until you’ve been to Dotonbori. The entertainment district is perhaps Osaka’s most famous draw, known for its bustling streets filled with delicious street food, exciting nightlife and colourful neon signs – including the iconic Glico running man, a symbol of the area since 1935, plus the massive Don Quijote store with a ferris wheel. Besides taking it all in on a wide-eyed stroll, you can sample local specialities like takoyaki and okonomiyaki, shop for souvenirs, and explore the many fascinating attractions that make this vibrant neighbourhood a must-visit destination. RECOMMENDED: Best things to do on Osaka's museum island, Nakanoshima

As nights grow longer and the air turns crisp, Osaka transforms into a glowing wonderland. Streets, parks and iconic landmarks sparkle with colourful lights after sundown, creating breathtaking scenes to brighten up our chilly winter nights. From the glittering installations at Osaka Castle to the dazzling displays in Umekita, the city’s winter illuminations are a feast for the eyes. While many lights fade after Christmas, we’ve rounded up the top displays that continue to shine into the new year. So layer up, step outside and enjoy a magical evening stroll – Osaka truly comes alive after dark in winter. RECOMMENDED: Discover more illuminations and seasonal light-ups in Kobe, just a stop trip away from central Osaka

We know Christmas and winter illuminations might be taking up most of your attention right now. However, don’t forget that just one week after December 25 comes another one of the year’s biggest celebrations. So, have you thought about how you’re going to welcome the 2026 New Year in Osaka? Whether you’re planning to party at one of the city’s top New Year’s Eve countdown events or prefer to see out 2025 with your favourite characters such as Snoopy and Hello Kitty, we’ve got you covered. So gather your crew, book your tickets, and get ready for a spectacular New Year’s celebration as you say goodbye to 2025 and hello to 2026. RECOMMENDED: Watch the first sunrise of the New Year from Harukas 300 or the rooftop of Umeda Sky Building

Studio Ghibli has such an enduring appeal that anything bearing its name is bound to succeed. Ghibli Park is a prime example. This immersive attraction is easily the studio’s crown jewel, as it brings the anime house’s beloved universe and heartfelt storytelling to life. Back in 2022, to coincide with the park’s highly anticipated opening, the ‘Ghibli Park and Ghibli Exhibition’ toured ten venues across Japan, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at the park’s concept and creation. The travelling exhibition was a massive hit, drawing approximately 1.7 million visitors at the end of its run in 2025. Now, more than three years after the park’s debut, a new ‘Ghibli Park Exhibition’ is set to tour Japan, this time highlighting the park’s current state. The best part is, the new exhibition will kick off in Osaka this July before travelling to other prefectures. While details are scarce at the time of writing, the organisers have revealed that ‘Ghibli Park Exhibition’ will revolve around hands-on experiences. So aside from rare materials and displays, the showcase will include many interactive elements for fans to engage with their beloved Ghibli stories and characters. We hope this means life-sized installations and recreated sets, too, so we can insert ourselves into iconic Studio Ghibli scenes for one-of-a-kind photos. More details, including ticketing info, will be announced soon. We’ll update you when they become available.

A lively green space within walking distance from Umeda, Ogimachi Park is one of the most popular cherry blossom spots in central Osaka. If you’re planning a sakura visit come spring, make sure to time it with the Ogimachi Cherry Blossom Festival happening all day over the weekend of April 3–5. According to the latest sakura forecast, the cherry blossoms in Osaka will reach peak bloom around the same time. And that’s perfect, as the festival will light up the blooms in soft illumination after dark, creating an even more magical scene. There will also be food trucks, a sake-tasting bar, a festival area for children, as well as stage and street performances to enhance your hanami (cherry blossom viewing) outing. While entry is free, the festival will offer a few paid activities to elevate your cherry blossom experience. For something truly atmospheric, you can release sakura-colored sky lanterns (¥4,400) into the night and set the park aglow. Don’t worry, this is entirely safe, as LED lights are used in place of the conventional candle. If you prefer to just kick back and relax instead, ¥2,000 will get you into the Beer Garden area, complete with a seat and 90 minutes of free-flow drinks. You’re also closer to the stage, where you’ll be treated to live performances. There’s also the picturesque red tatami seating under blooming sakura. These will set you back ¥5,000, as it includes a Japanese sake tasting set plus you’ll have the closest view of the stage.

After a successful run in Yokohama last December, one of Japan’s largest stationery fairs is setting up in Osaka for a special four-day event. With the theme ‘Today’s Stationery Look’ (loosely translated from Japanese), visitors are encouraged to mix and match their stationery selection as they would an outfit to suit their mood. That’s easy to do, as the festival will feature an overwhelming variety of pens, notebooks, stickers, stamps, masking tapes and more, available in every imaginable colour, size and pattern. There will be limited-edition and pre-sale items, along with collaboration merch created exclusively for the festival by some of the country’s most beloved stationery brands. Keep an eye out for the Osaka-limited items designed in collaboration with the city’s top patisserie. Shopping aside, Bungu Joshi Haku will also host workshops and activities to enhance your shopping experience and inspire creativity. These include a masking tape ‘buffet’, a pen ‘fitting room’, custom badge workshops, and more. Admission tickets must be purchased online in advance, and sales will close once capacity is reached.

Located in western Kyoto, Myoshin-ji was originally a sub-palace of Emperor Hanazono (1297–1348) before being converted into a Zen Buddhist temple in 1342. During the Sengoku period, under the patronage of powerful warlords, many sub-temples were added to the sprawling grounds and Myoshin-ji became a rich repository of Zen Buddhist art and Momoyama-period paintings, especially works by the celebrated Kano, Hasegawa and Kaiho schools. Juo Sohitsu (1296–1380), the sole disciple of the temple’s founding abbot Kanzan Egen, played a fundamental role in establishing Myoshin-ji’s early foundations. This exhibition commemorates his 650th memorial anniversary by showcasing some of the temple’s most treasured classical Japanese artworks. It also highlights the transmission of Zen philosophy from Kanzan to Juo and onwards to the present day. Don’t miss the exhibition’s cool little interactive AR experience. Using a smartphone, you can watch the majestic dragon from Myoshin-ji’s lecture hall seemingly rise to the museum ceiling.

With most temples and cultural sites closing around 5pm, there aren’t many things to do in Kyoto at night. As a result, large crowds are often seen concentrating in areas like Gion after dark. Kyoto Night Market was launched in June last year as a new evening attraction to help spread out the crowds in the city. Since then, the market has seen its popularity grow steadily, attracting an estimated 100,000 visitors across eight monthly events in 2025. This month, the night market returns for its 11th edition on Sunday March 29. It will again be held at Ohigashi-san Plaza in front of the majestic Higashi Honganji Temple, less than 10 minutes’ walk from Kyoto Station. From 3pm to 10pm, the plaza will come alive with around 60 food trucks and booths. You can enjoy hearty winter warmers like steaming ramen and piping hot takoyaki, and shop for artisanal pottery, leather goods and handcrafted accessories. Beyond food and shopping, the night market also offers live entertainment and cultural experiences. Highlights include ninja shows, live music, traditional dance and street performances. For those looking for something more hands-on, there are pottery and craft workshops as well as trial rickshaw rides to help make this event a fun night out for everyone.

Blue Bottle Coffee may seem like it’s expanding across cities in Japan, but its offshoot, the Blue Bottle Studio, is far more exclusive, appearing only in a handful of locations around the world. Blue Bottle Studio Kyoto is the only such concept in Japan, tucked away on the second floor of a beautifully restored 100-year-old machiya townhouse just around the corner from Nanzenji Temple. Unlike the regular café on the ground floor, Blue Bottle Studio Kyoto only opens for a limited period each season and is accessible by reservation only. It seats just five guests at a time, serving a curated coffee tasting course overseen by Blue Bottle founder James Freeman. This spring, Blue Bottle Studio Kyoto will operate on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays from April 1 to May 18. The theme of the seasonal tasting course is ‘Future of Coffee’, focusing on non-Arabica varieties, particularly Liberica from Vietnam and Malaysia, and Excelsa from India. These rare beans account for just 1 percent of the global coffee market. Their cherries are larger than those of the prevalent Arabica, and are known for their rich sweetness and fruity aromas. These characteristics are explored through six drinks, including a rich cup prepared using the traditional Japanese nel drip method, reminiscent of the country’s kissaten (retro coffee shop) culture. The course also includes three pairing sweets inspired by the beans’ tropical flavours. The Blue Bottle Studio coffee course is priced at ¥8,910 and

Kansai-based artist community Instabu is made up of creatives and technologists specialising in digital media and interactive art. Their recurring group exhibition Homeworks has been running since 2016, consistently showcasing a wide range of artistic expressions and genres from video and sound to immersive installations. For its 10th anniversary, Homeworks is presenting its largest show to date, featuring more than 50 works by over 40 artists who have either won awards or exhibited both locally and abroad. A common theme in the curation is interactivity, as many of the exhibits are designed to be experienced in person, with extra elements and dimensions that go beyond the screen. The exhibition will also include sponsored installations, live performances and hands-on workshops, alongside food and drink vendors such as BAK Craft Brewery and its selection of local beers.

Janai Games is one of Osaka’s most unique bars – not just because of its speakeasy-style location hidden behind a ‘broken’ purikura booth, but more so for its inspired take on non-alcoholic ‘cocktails’. Mocktails often get dismissed as just overpriced mixed fruit juice. Janai Games, however, takes a far more serious and inventive approach to going booze-free. The bar manages to recreate the layered flavours and nuances of alcoholic cocktails through the clever use of zero-proof wines and botanical waters. The menu is divided into two camps: coffee-based or tea-based. From there, things get creative. First, fruit juices are added for flavour and body, then layered with floral, herbal and even savoury elements for complexity, before finishing with bitters for depth. The result? Sophisticated yet well-balanced drinks that look and taste like actual cocktails – just without the hangover. Sadly, Janai Games will be closing on February 28 for a revamp. In the meantime, if you’re going to visit, be sure to make a reservation first via its Instagram account – you’ll need a special code to get in.

Japan has a rich theatrical tradition, but many of its performing arts are steeped in strict formality and intricate codes, making them almost impenetrable to outsiders. If you’ve always been curious about Japanese theatre, this special event at Yamamoto Noh Theatre offers an accessible and enjoyable introduction. Held roughly once a month, the Osaka Traditional Performing Arts Heritage Night is designed with beginners and international visitors in mind. The two-hour programme features a selection of Japanese performances, either presented in English or accompanied by English subtitles. Moreover, the event is hosted bilingually in Japanese and English, and also includes a hands-on experience. For the February edition, you can enjoy Noh, Rakugo, Kodan and Chikuzen-Biwa. The interactive session will revolve around a small hand drum known as the kotsuzumi. Note that pre-school children are not admitted. Reservations should be made in advance via the website.

Osaka Castle Park may be best known for its cherry blossoms, but this historical landmark is also home to a diverse array of plum trees that bloom in winter, just before the sakura season begins. Unlike the park's Nishinomaru Garden, where cherry blossom viewing requires an entry fee, the plum groves are open to the public for free. The park boasts a total of 1,245 ume (plum) trees across 105 varieties. As they range from early to late bloomers, there’s always something flowering from January through mid-March.  As of February 24, 102 of the 105 plum varieties have reached full bloom, so now's the perfect time to visit. For more information on the garden's plum varieties and their blooming status, check the Osaka Castle Park website.

Located in southern Kyoto, Jonangu Shrine is a peaceful escape from the city centre’s busier temples. But not in late February through mid-March, when the garden’s weeping plum blossoms are in bloom, creating one of the most breathtaking winter sights in Kyoto and attracting some of its biggest crowds. ​​Jonangu features five separate gardens, and the one to its west, named ‘Haru no Yama’ (‘Spring Mountain’), is home to about 150 weeping plum (ume) trees. The best time to visit is during full bloom, when the drooping branches are heavy with pink, red and white flowers.  The tail end of the season is just as picturesque, with the fallen flowers forming a colourful carpet over the mossy ground. This serene sight beautifully captures the essence of Kyoto in late winter. What’s more, the garden’s camellias are blooming around the same time, making Jonangu Shrine one of the best places to catch two of Japan’s most iconic winter blooms in one spot.  You can check the flowers’ blooming status on the shrine's homepage.

Osaka Expo may be over, but its legacy lives on. As two of Myaku-Myaku’s most popular statues embark on a prefecture-wide tour, another beloved Expo highlight is also making a comeback. The grand fireworks that enthralled visitors during the six-month event will be restaged to rekindle the awe and wonder we felt at the Expo last year. Japan Fireworks Expo 2026 builds on the spectacular showcases that lit up Expo 2025’s Yumeshima sky, with organisers promising a display of equal, if not greater, scale. The 60-minute show will launch size-10 shells, which are capable of producing panoramic fireworks spanning approximately 300 metres. The event will be held at Nishikinohama in Kaizuka City, Osaka prefecture. It's the only Blue Flag–certified beach in Osaka and one of just three in Western Japan. This prestigious international certification recognises Nishikinohama as a clean, accessible and sustainably managed beach. On the day, the venue will come alive with food stalls, barbecue areas and a host of activities. So arrive early to enjoy the festivities, and don’t miss the sunset at Nishikinohama, which is ranked among Japan’s top 100 sunsets. Japan Fireworks Expo 2026 is a ticketed event with paid seating. General ticket sales will start in February; details to be announced soon. 

Arashiyama is undoubtedly one of the Kyoto districts most affected by overtourism. Anyone who’s visited knows just how crowded it gets during the day, and this greatly distracts from the area’s natural beauty. Just a few months ago, the local council was even forced to cut down parts of the beloved bamboo forest due to graffiti vandalism. To combat overcrowding and its negative effects, the local council is launching the Meets Arashiyama Project, a two-week event running from Friday March 13 to Sunday March 29. By spreading out the activities across the district at various times, the event is designed to help ease congestion at Arashiyama, improve the overall tourist experience, and, at the same time, boost the local economy. There’s even a green initiative for visitors to participate in local environmental conservation. A highlight of the project is the illumination of Togetsukyo Bridge, one of Arashiyama's most iconic attractions. From 6pm to 9pm, the bridge will light up in a beautiful display designed by Naked, one of Japan’s top creative outfits. Photo: Naked, Inc Photo opportunities aside, the Meets Arashiyama Project is all about making a positive impact. To get your hands dirty – figuratively speaking – you can participate in a cleanup activity around Katsura River (11am–5pm). Once you’re done, take the collected trash over to Nakanoshima Park and be rewarded with prizes such as Saga rice and discount coupons for local shops. Photo: Naked, Inc While you’re at Naka

Some good news to get you through the winter blues. The trusty Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC) has just released the sixth update to its official cherry blossom forecast for 2026. According to the March 5 report, sakura season will still arrive slightly earlier than usual this year in Osaka and Kyoto. Every year, JMC issues nationwide predictions for both the initial flowering and full bloom dates of somei yoshino, Japan’s most iconic and prevalent cherry blossom species. Through its dedicated website, you can check the estimated bloom dates for around 1,000 cherry blossom destinations across the country, from Hokkaido in the north to Kagoshima in the south. Photo: Japan Meteorological Corporation So what does the latest forecast reveal for the Kansai region? In Osaka, cherry blossoms are predicted to begin flowering on March 24, with trees reaching full bloom (known as mankai) around April 1. Kyoto will most likely see its sakura bloom a day earlier than Osaka, at around March 23, but reaching full bloom on the same day, on April 1. That’s roughly three days earlier than average. Elsewhere in Kansai, the outlook is similar In Nara, flowering is expected to start around March 24, with full bloom happening around April 1. In Wakayama, cherry blossoms will most likely emerge on March 26 and reach their peak on April 3. Kobe, on the other hand, will see its first blossoms on March 26, with full bloom expected around April 4.  As always, this is just the seventh forecast

Tetris is one of the most iconic video games ever invented, and many of us have probably spent one too many hours in our childhood stacking those falling blocks on our computer or TV screens. Well, you can soon relive that nostalgia in Kyoto – this time in a larger-than-life format. Photo: Kyoto Grand Staircase Tetris For just one week from March 19–25, two icons come together to present a unique, mind-blowing experience. One of Kyoto’s most distinguished landmarks, Kyoto Station, designed by visionary architect Hiroshi Hara, features a massive stairway that rises 171 steps from the 4th floor up to the 15th-floor Sky Garden. This jaw-dropping, 35-metre-high Grand Staircase will be transformed into a gigantic Tetris screen. This is no mere projection mapping, though; it’s a playable game of Tetris and everyone is invited. Photo: Kyoto Grand Staircase Tetris Using a dedicated controller, participants can play Tetris on the Grand Staircase. There are single- and two-player modes, along with three difficulty levels: easy, normal and hard. Be ready to bring your A-game, though. To add a competitive edge to the experience, the venue will feature a scoreboard displaying the top players. There will also be photo spots, so you can capture proof that you played Tetris on one of Kyoto’s most spectacular landmarks. The Kyoto Grand Staircase Tetris at Kyoto Station runs nightly from March 19 to March 25, 6pm to 10pm (registration closes at 9pm). Participation costs ¥500 per game (cash

One of the easiest day trips from Osaka, Himeji Castle is a sight to behold. The imposing structure is nicknamed the ‘White Heron Castle’, thanks to its brilliant white appearance and elegant silhouette.  The complex as we see it today was completed in 1609, though many of its buildings and structures date back further. In fact, Himeji Castle is one of the few original castles left in Japan, as it was never destroyed by war or natural disasters. As a result, it stands as the finest surviving example of early 17th-century Japanese castle architecture, a status confirmed by its Unesco World Heritage Site designation in 1993. Photo: Himeji CityHimeji Castle during cherry blossom season Aside from its remarkable architecture and breathtaking beauty, Himeji Castle is also widely cherished as one of the region’s best cherry blossom destinations. Now, if you’re planning to visit, you should be aware that the castle’s admission has been revised to a new dual pricing structure. Up until recently, entry tickets were priced at ¥1,000 for adults and ¥300 for students and children under 18 years old. Effective March 1, ticket prices have increased sharply to ¥2,500 for non-residents, which include foreign tourists and those not living in Himeji City. This is now officially the highest castle admission in Japan. On the flip side, entry has been made free for those under 18 years of age. Tickets for local residents, however, remain at ¥1,000. And that’s fair, since their taxes are used to

Unveiled recently at CoffeeFest Madrid 2026, this year’s World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops list features two Japan spots: Osaka’s Ult Coffee at No. 24, followed by Tokyo’s Koffee Mameya Kakeru at No. 28.  It’s satisfying to see Osaka edge out Tokyo this time, considering the enduring friendly rivalry between the two cities. But more importantly, we’re proud to witness Japan’s exceptional coffee scene being recognised on the world stage, especially with two shops ranked in the top 30. Photo: Lim Chee Wah Making it onto the World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops list is no easy feat, as the evaluation process covers a long list of criteria: coffee quality, barista expertise, customer service, innovation, ambience, sustainability practices, food and pastry offerings, plus overall consistency. Scores are then tallied using a weighted system: expert panel evaluations account for 70 percent of the total, with public votes making up the remaining 30 percent. Photo: Lim Chee Wah Located in the underrated Kyomachibori neighbourhood, which is quietly gaining a reputation for its sophisticated food and drink scene, Ult Coffee is a beautiful space, replete with calming earth tones and artisanal design details. The coffee shop itself is compact, with just a couple of benches, while next door, behind a stylish wooden façade, sits its far more spacious roastery. The fact that the roastery occupies the larger footprint clearly signals where Ult’s priority lies. This is likely a main reason why Ult is

Kyoto is one of Japan’s most visited destinations, so much so that overtourism has become a challenge for the ancient city. To better manage the massive number of tourists, which is expected to surge during the upcoming cherry blossom season, the city council has decided to increase the accommodation tax in 2026. Kyoto City first introduced the accommodation tax in October 2018. While rates previously ranged from ¥200 to ¥1,000, the new 2026 structure can set you back as much as ¥10,000 per night, making it the highest accommodation tax in Japan. Here’s everything you need to know about the 2026 increase, which came into effect on March 1. The new 2026 accommodation tax rates Accommodation tax in Kyoto is calculated based on the cost of your hotel room per night, inclusive of service charge but excluding meals and consumption tax. The tax is payable per person per night. Here’s the breakdown. Budget hotels under ¥6,000 per night: tax remains at ¥200 Mid-range ¥6,000–¥19,999: ¥400 Upscale ¥20,000–¥49,999: ¥1,000 Premium ¥50,000–¥99,999: ¥4,000 Luxury ¥100,000 and above: ¥10,000 Where to pay your accommodation tax The tax is generally collected at your hotel or ryokan upon check-in. However, some online booking sites and travel agencies may include it upfront in your pre-payment. What the accommodation tax will be used for The Kyoto City Council states that the tax revenue will be used to preserve the city’s historical and cultural heritage – especially its many Unesco World

Good news: you’ll soon be able to experience one of Japan’s most popular destinations the Muji way. The beloved Japanese lifestyle brand is opening Muji Base Kyoto Kiyomizu on May 20, just around the corner from the Unesco World Heritage Site, Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Photo: Muji Base Kyoto KiyomizuKiyomizu-dera Temple Set in the historic heart of Kyoto, the new hotel offers easy access to some of the city’s top attractions, while also providing a soothing retreat to return to after a day spent navigating the crowds.  Photo: Muji Base Kyoto Kiyomizu The property takes over the long-established Amenity Hotel Kyoto. While the familiar exterior is preserved, its 18 rooms have been fully renovated in Muji’s clean, minimalist aesthetic. They are decked out entirely with Muji furniture and decor, complemented by art and crafts by Kyoto-based artisans and creatives.  Photo: Muji Base Kyoto Kiyomizu However, unlike the city-centric Muji Hotel in Ginza, Muji Base follows a different concept. Typically located in local neighbourhoods rather than busy urban centres, Muji Base is designed to make travel seem less like visiting and more like living. Photo: Muji Base Kyoto Kiyomizu To help guests feel more grounded and connected to local life, the rooms at Muji Base Kyoto Kiyomizu come with a map highlighting community-based experiences including kintsugi (the art of repairing broken pottery with gold) workshops, traditional cafés and neighbourhood bathhouses. Guests will also receive

Dotonbori is one of Osaka’s most iconic attractions. The popular nightlife and entertainment district attracts roughly 30 million visitors annually, drawn by the area’s bustling energy, abundant food and drink options, and larger-than-life animatronic signboards – think giant crabs, octopuses and the like. Dotonbori is also the city’s street food central, cooking up everything à la minute from takoyaki – the quintessential Osaka snack of wheat balls stuffed with octopus – to crepes, taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes with sweet fillings) and wagyu skewers. While eating and walking are generally frowned upon in Japan, here in Dotonbori, it’s part of the experience. Photo: Osaka Minami-Dotonbori Overtourism Countermeasures Promotion Council Unfortunately, this means people also tend to smoke on the streets – even though smoking and vaping in public spaces has been banned since January 2025 and carries a ¥1,000 fine. Not only does this create an unpleasant environment for eating out on the street, it also contributes to littering.  Photo: Osaka Minami-Dotonbori Overtourism Countermeasures Promotion Council Smart rubbish bins were installed to help, but the Osaka Minami-Dotonbori Overtourism Countermeasures Promotion Council is doubling down by creating a dedicated smoking zone in the area. Located on the south side of Tazaemon Bridge, the smoking area, equipped with 24-hour security cameras, is intended to discourage people from smoking indiscriminately. This should not only reduce

With the Emperor’s Birthday falling on Monday February 23, Japan is enjoying a long weekend packed with seasonal events and activities. Whether you're in Osaka planning a day trip to Kyoto or are already exploring the ancient capital, the city is brimming with limited-time experiences. You could spend the day browsing an art fair before stepping inside a rarely opened temple. Or head to an off-the-beaten-path shrine to admire its beautiful weeping plum blossoms, which have just started blooming. As night falls, end your day with a magical temple illumination. Sounds exciting? Well, bundle up – you’re in for a memorable winter weekend in Kyoto. Photo: Woraphon Banchobdi/DreamstimeAn undated stock photo of Toji Temple during one of its night openings Toji Japanese Garden Light-up Ends March 11, 6pm–9pm (last entry 8.30pm), ¥500–¥1,500 Temple illuminations in Kyoto typically happen in spring and autumn, but this winter, Unesco World Heritage Site Toji is breaking with tradition by opening its doors for a limited-time night visit. For this special occasion, the organisers behind last October’s wildly popular Arashiyama bamboo forest illumination have brought their signature light displays to one of Kyoto’s most historic temples.  Founded in the 8th century, Toji Temple now sees its elegant grounds transformed by an array of traditional bamboo lanterns and artistic installations. Highlights include the illumination around the temple’s iconic five-storey wooden pagoda – which is

With matcha popping up all over our social feeds, the quintessential Japanese green tea is experiencing a global boom. More so in Japan, where news has been circulating that its popularity is causing a shortage of the green powder. (Long story short: it’s not, at least not at the moment; you just need to know where to look.) Matcha is incredibly versatile. It tastes great with just hot water as tea, with milk as a latte, and especially in desserts from cakes to ice cream. But here’s the question: do you love matcha enough to also enjoy it in a bowl of ramen? The newly opened Ramen Nishiki Sui in Kyoto’s Gion district claims to be the first ramen restaurant in the world to serve only matcha ramen. While matcha is usually associated with sweets, it can work beautifully in savoury dishes, too – in this case, adding depth and subtle complexity to the broth. Photo: Ramen Nishiki SuiNishiki ramen At Ramen Nishiki Sui, you’ll find four matcha ramen bowls. The classic Nishiki, named after the original sister restaurant, features that outlet's signature sea bream broth. But here, it's enhanced with matcha for a bolder umami flavour. Photo: Ramen Nishiki SuiYuzu ramen The Yuzu takes it a step further by incorporating the bright and refreshing Japanese citrus into the same broth. Photo: Ramen Nishiki SuiSui ramen The namesake Sui bowl is the restaurant’s signature dish. Here, the umami notes in both the matcha and the creamy white sea bream broth complement each other perfectly, w

Here’s a local tip on eating out in Osaka (or Japan in general): lunch is where you’ll get the best deals. Many restaurants, including fine-dining establishments and Michelin-starred eateries, offer affordable lunch sets. These are often simpler versions of their signature menus, making them an easy entry point for first-time diners. Photo: Kisa Toyoshima Located in the bustling commercial and shopping district of Umeda, just a short stroll from Osaka Station, Time Out Market Osaka has served as a foodie hub since opening in March last year. The food and cultural market brings together some of Osaka’s top restaurants and emerging chefs, offering a cosmopolitan mix of flavours that reflects the city’s vibrant dining scene. If you’re looking to enjoy some of Osaka’s and the Kansai region’s signature dishes while getting more value for your budget, make sure to head to Time Out Market Osaka for lunch, Monday through Friday from 11am to 3pm. Even if you’re pushed for time, the market makes a convenient option, too, as many of the lunch sets can be ready within 15 minutes of ordering. Photo: Time Out Market OsakaLunch at Passion Udon Sanshu For classic Sanuki udon, renowned Osaka noodle house Passion Udon Sanshu serves up its signature thick, chewy noodles with a side of seasonal rice and green tea from just ¥1,000. Photo: Time Out Market OsakaLunch at Kushiage001 Another Osaka soul food, kushiage (deep-fried skewers) is available as a lunch set at Kushiage001, the market ou

Shopping in Japan is amazing. More often than not, you arrive with one suitcase and leave with two – or more. Or, you end up buying a bigger one to bring home all your Japan haul. Now, how do you dispose of your unwanted or broken luggage? Japan is meticulous with waste disposal. Rubbish is sorted by type and collected on different days. Oversized items, like suitcases, require pre-booking and payment before the local council will come collect them. Unfortunately, some tourists have resorted to simply abandoning their unwanted or broken suitcases in hotels and airports. The Mainichi reports that abandoned luggage has become a major concern for over 80 percent of surveyed hotels in Osaka. These items, usually treated as lost property initially, not only take up valuable storage space but are also a financial burden when it comes to disposal. Airports are facing the same problem. Abandoned luggage is often treated as a potential security threat, thus straining airport security resources. According to the Asahi Shimbun, Osaka’s Kansai International Airport has seen a rise in abandoned suitcases, with 816 discarded bags recorded in 2024 alone. To tackle this growing problem, luggage specialist Nihon Hozai – with over 15 years of experience in renting, selling, repairing and cleaning suitcases – has launched the ReCase service to help get rid of your unwanted bags. The best part? Recase is not only a convenient solution for visitors but also an environmentally friendly one. Photo