Lim Chee Wah

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.

People who don’t live in cities will tell you they’re busy, lonely and expensive places. But there’s a reason so many people choose to live in them: with world-class art and culture, unbeatable food and nightlife, buzzing neighbourhoods and a dizzying amount of stuff to do and see, there’s simply no better place to be.  Every year, we take the pulse of city living by quizzing thousands of locals across the planet about life in their hometowns. This year, more than 18,500 city-dwellers shared their insights on everything from food, nightlife and culture to affordability, happiness and the overall city vibe. When urban living can sometimes feel isolating and costly, this year we wanted to get a sense of what, exactly, makes a city feel like home. Sure, the nightlife is great, but is the city safe and walkable? Is good quality food and art available at a reasonable price? Is it easy to make friends, find love, and access nature?  Livability was a key factor in our ranking this year. But a great city to live in is, naturally, a great city to visit. So, along with the thousands of responses from locals around the world, we asked Time Out’s global network of city experts to vote on the places they think are particularly exciting right now. After crunching all that data, here we are: Time Out’s definitive ranking of the world’s best cities in 2025. Read on to see how your hometown fared… RECOMMENDED:🛍️ The coolest neighbourhoods in the world right now🌎 The best things to do in the

タイムアウト東京 > レストラン＆カフェ >東京、手頃価格のミシュランレストラン15選 ミシュランの星を獲得したレストランの数は、東京が世界最多と言われるように、美食の街だ。2024年版のミシュランガイドブックにその名を刻むことができた星付きレストランは183軒。この数には、「本格的な料理を手ごろな価格で提供する」という理由でビブグルマンを与えられた店を含んでいない。 ここでは、予算を気にせずに、良質な食事を楽しめる東京のミシュラン星付きレストランやビブグルマンレストランを紹介する。 関連記事『東京、1万円以下のおまかせコース9選』

2025 is set to be a momentous year when it comes to travel. Citywide celebrations and milestone anniversaries will be taking place in Amsterdam and Rome, sparkling new cultural centres are flinging open their doors in Rotterdam, New York and Abu Dhabi, and there are fresh chances to see some wonderful wildlife in Australia, Singapore and Greenland – but that’s just the beginning. Read on for our roundup of the 25 coolest, weirdest and most adventurous new things to do across the world in 2025, no matter your whereabouts or budget. RECOMMENDED:🇬🇧 The best things to do in the UK in 2025🛍️ The coolest neighbourhoods in the world🎪 The world’s best music festivals for 2025🌃 The best cities in the world right now  

There's no way to travel all of Asia in one lifetime, but you can damn well bet that we're going to try. From bustling city destinations to wild island paradises, there's so much on the regional travel menu that we'd gladly spend our annual leave on in 2025 – and if you're having a hard time choosing, then you're in the right place. We talked to our Time Out editors and travel contributors in Asia to suss out what's on their radar for the coming year. These destinations are emerging hotspots: long overlooked or previously hard to get to, but now on the map for travellers searching for alternatives to well-trodden destinations like Bali, Tokyo, and Bangkok. Many on the list have become better-connected too – all the more reason to buy that plane ticket in 2025. And it goes without saying: they all have spectacular natural attractions, rich culture, and fantastic dining scenes to satisfy the pickiest of travellers. Here's Time Out's list of the best places to visit in Asia in 2025.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Asia newsletter for the best travel inspiration straight to your inbox. READ MORE: The most spectacular places to visit in Asia and The most gorgeous islands in Asia 

Kyoto is a very special place, but in recent years, its timeless charm can feel overshadowed by the growing crowds of tourists flocking to the ancient capital’s Unesco World Heritage temples and other historical attractions. Still, no matter how packed things get, there’s a way to experience the harmonious, meditative spirit Kyoto is renowned for – by splurging on a hotel that embodies this unique city’s Zen philosophy. Despite being located just across from the perennially popular Nijo Castle, Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto has managed to create a bubble of serenity in the heart of the city. This is accomplished through thoughtful design by André Fu, one of the region’s leading names in hotel interiors, known for his work on luxury properties like The Upper House Hong Kong and Andaz Singapore. The four-storey, low-rise hotel is built around a gorgeous Japanese garden, which serves as the focal point and calming heart of the property. Photo: Hotel The Mitsui KyotoThe Kajiimiya Gate at Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto Hotel The Mitsui is also steeped in history. The 250-year-old grounds on which it stands were once the residence of the affluent Mitsui family. The beautiful Kajiimiya Gate at the hotel entrance was originally built in 1703 and previously graced the Kyoto Imperial Palace grounds. Relocated to this site in 1935, it’s now a registered Tangible Cultural Property. Photo: Hotel The Mitsui KyotoHotel The Mitsui Kyoto's gorgeous Japanese garden Upon entering the hotel through the afo

The highest peak in Japan standing at 3,776m, Mt Fuji is beloved for its elegant, perfectly symmetrical shape. It's the icon of Japan, and whether you're in Tokyo for a short time or you've lived here for decades, a clear view of the mountain never gets old. While it’s possible to get a glimpse of the mountain in the capital when the weather is clear, you're better off travelling out of the city to get the perfect view. Admire Mt Fuji's beauty from these nine scenic spots in Yamanashi, Kanagawa and Shizuoka, all of which are easily reachable from Tokyo as a day trip. Just try to get there early in the morning or in the late afternoon as the midday clouds tend to block the view. RECOMMENDED: Best day trips from Tokyo

As one of Asia's most dynamic cities, Hong Kong is surrounded by a wealth of vibrant neighbourhoods just waiting to be explored. According to Time Out's annual ranking, curated by a global team of on-the-ground experts, these destinations promise a taste of local life with unique cultural experiences, exciting local flavours, and everything in between. While Kowloon City was named the coolest neighbourhood in Hong Kong, there are many more gems around Asia just a few hours away from the city. Pack your bags and get ready for an adventure. RECOMMENDED: ✨ Kowloon City: your ultimate neighbourhood guide😋 The best Thai restaurants in Kowloon City    

Following its successful debut in 2024, Marriott International’s Luxury Dining Series returns with an expanded line-up of cities and culinary talents. Last year’s series began at the Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo, and the 2025 edition will once again kick off in Japan – this time at St. Regis Osaka. The choice aptly reflects Osaka’s rising global profile, not only as the host of the 2025 World Expo but also as one of Japan’s most dynamic culinary destinations. Taking place over the weekend of July 11-13, the event will be hosted across St. Regis Osaka’s restaurants and signature bar, with a programme featuring guest chefs and collaborations from both Japan and abroad. The weekend opens with a four-hands teppanyaki dinner at Wajo. Head chef Takato Kitano will team up with Yuki Ode, master teppan chef from the Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo, for a special menu celebrating Japan’s exemplary produce, particularly seafood and heirloom vegetables. In contrast, the hotel’s other restaurants will highlight two of the most distinctive cross-cultural cuisines originating in Japan: Italian fare by way of Japanese, and the longstanding dialogue between French techniques and Japanese flavours. At La Veduta, head chef Michiaki Yoshida will collaborate with chef Agustin Balbi from Ando in Hong Kong – a Michelin-starred restaurant and a familiar name on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list – to create an Italian-Japanese multicourse menu. Meanwhile, Brasserie Régine will host an elaborate French-Japanese tasting menu

Udatsu once again proves that fat and char together create the best flavour – and it really doesn’t matter if the fat comes from premium wagyu or a delicate cut of tuna. This is not something we expect to enjoy at a sushi restaurant, but it pretty much sums up Udatsu’s take on the most iconic of all Japanese culinary traditions – textbook perfect sushi that still manages to sneak in a few surprises to make it exciting for the modern palate. Head chef Hisashi Udatsu’s background has something to do with his contemporary approach to sushi. Udatsu comes from a family of butchers but picked up the sushi trade by choice, and so he is not strictly bound by heritage rules. It’s clear that there’s still a great deal of respect for tradition: that beautiful slice of fish, gleaming as if it has just been hauled off the sea; the perfectly formed shari (vinegared rice) that’s still warm to the touch; the bare whisper of seasoning that teases your palate but never detracts your attention away from the seafood. Those alone would have been enough to make good sushi – but Udatsu brings in another element to elevate his food further, using ingredients or techniques not usually seen in sushi. These creative executions seem neither gimmicky nor out of left field, as they are informed by modern cooking and the current food trends. In other words, they make sense. It’s that sticky dashi jelly on ishidai (striped beakfish) that makes you lick your lips in delight. The use of red hot charcoal to li

This upscale omakase sushi restaurant near Ginza leverages its parent company's wholesale seafood business and direct connections with 150 fishing ports across Japan to secure some of the freshest and rarest seafood at great prices. As a result, you can enjoy quality seafood or a fraction of the cost you'd expect to pay - ¥22,800 for the 17-piece Issekisancho course and ¥26,800 for the 22-piece Yatagarasu course. The restaurant's excellent connections ensures that, even at these prices, it serves highly prized fish rarely found elsewhere. The selection changes with the seasons, but past highlights include the exquisite sakura masu (cherry salmon), known for its rich fat content, the supremely creamy shiroebitei (white shrimp), hailed as the 'diamond of Toyama', and kuromutsu (gnomefish or bluefish), deep-sea member of the seabass family known for its clean, delicate flavour. With seating for just eight diners, Sushi Yatagrarau's intimate setting allows for an elevated experience where every aspect, from the precise cut of the fish to the elegant shape of the sushi, is executed with care. More importantly, this commitment to perfection begins with the preparation of the fish, with the ikijime method used to kill the fish humanely and quickly after it is caught, preserving its flavour and ensuring the highest quality for every bite.

The world-conquering ramen may have the reputation of being a pragmatic comfort food, but over at Ginza Hachigou, it’s elevated into a refined, elegant dish. Owner-chef Yasushi Matsumura’s training has much to do with this; once you realise he’s worked more than 30 years in French cuisine, you’ll see how this bowl of ramen came into being. Ginza Hachigou’s ramen soup is like consommé: a clear liquid gold that’s light yet complex and full of flavour. It’s made by boiling down Nagoya Cochin chicken, duck, scallop, dried tomatoes and shiitake mushrooms, konbu (seaweed), an heirloom green onion from Kyoto and surprisingly, cured ham. Where your standard bowl of ramen calls for tare, a sauce concentrate that acts like a seasoning, Matsumura eschews that for a sprinkling of French sea salt to round out the flavours. And it’s just phenomenal.  The bowl of noodles is then topped with strands of bamboo shoots, slivers of green onion and slices of chashu pork, and finished with a fresh crack of black pepper. Those fatty pork pieces are cooked so perfectly that the fat just coats your palette with a sweet, creamy, savoury goodness. Better yet, this Bib Gourmand-rated ramen will only set you back ¥1,200; throw in an extra ¥200 and you’ll get a perfect boiled egg with a gooey yolk. The interior of this discreet and unusually calm noodle shop in Higashi-Ginza looks just as refined as its sophisticated ramen. The tiny space seats only six diners along a counter that overlooks a surprisingly

Nestled in a standalone double-storey building with lightly tan earthen walls that blend harmoniously into the Meiji Park surroundings, natuRe Tokyo is a sustainability-focused restaurant that effortlessly combines French, Japanese and Hawaiian influences in its menu. While this fusion of three distinctive cuisines may seem unconventional at first, it’s rooted in the creative director and chef Nae Ogawa’s intriguing background. Early in her career, French-trained Japanese chef Ogawa honed her skills at some of the world’s most prestigious restaurants, including the two-Michelin-starred Narisawa in Tokyo. At natuRe Waikiki in Hawaii, where she serves as executive chef, she has crafted a widely acclaimed menu that celebrates sustainable and locally sourced produce through French cooking techniques. Earlier this year, Ogawa brought her cross-cultural sensibility back to her homeland with the opening of natuRe Tokyo. This sister restaurant has the same culinary DNA as its Waikiki counterpart, substituting Japanese ingredients for Hawaiian ones to maintain the focus on local sourcing. Yet, traces of Hawaiian flavours occasionally make their way into the dishes, adding a subtle twist to the menu. In Tokyo, the restaurant demonstrates its commitment to sustainability by embracing imperfect ingredients that vendors might otherwise discard due to their appearance. Though there’s a varied selection of à la carte dishes, the standout is the nine-course signature menu, offered at an acce

Tonkatsu is often celebrated for its golden brown crust, but Narikura’s unique approach has resulted in pork cutlets with a much lighter, almost pale colour instead. Don’t let that unusual appearance fool you, though – this is still textbook tonkatsu. The meat is surprisingly tender and glistens with its juices while the panko crumb coating is crisp and fluffy without any traces of oil.  It took chef Seizo Mitani years of experimentation to perfect his low-heat frying method that gave rise to his signature blonde tonkatsu. And because precise timing is crucial in this painstaking process, the restaurant is by reservations only. There are several seatings a day and everyone is served at the same time in each session. In other words, don’t be late. There are only two options on the menu – the ¥6,500 two-piece and the ¥8,000 three-piece set meals. Granted, the price is unusually high for tonkatsu, but that’s to be expected as Narikura uses top-shelf Japanese pork, namely Tokyo-X and Iwachu-buta. Plus, the portions are big: expect 175g to 200g of meat (which is a lot!) alongside appetisers, pork miso soup, rice and a small dessert.  Depending on your meal, you’ll choose two or three different cuts from a selection of six including fatty bara katsu, tenderloin, rib roast, chateaubriand, mille-feuille and cheese mille-feuille (some cuts require a ¥100 top-up). On some days, you can also add on side dishes such as deep-fried shrimp and stewed pork belly. While the bright, clean and

Hidden in a basement just a minute’s walk from Shibuya Station, Ishinohana is Shibuya’s answer to the high-end, Japanese-style cocktail bars of Ginza, but with a more relaxed vibe and far more inventive drinks. Seasonal cocktails are the speciality here, as owner-bartender Shinobu Ishigaki wields an array of fresh fruit and herbs when creating his distinctive concoctions: a gin and tonic is enlivened with kumquat, a margherita gets an injection of housemade cassis confiture, and a highball features dill and green apple syrup, for example. In fact, Ishinohana is so serious about its fruit that the menu indicates the provenance of its selections. The menu, however, covers more grounds than just fruity concoctions. Aside from providing an enticing list of coffee cocktails and monthly recommendations, Shinobu can shake up many variations of three classic cocktails – old fashioned, negroni and bloody mary – reimagined with local ingredients and creative twists. The Japanese Old Fashioned, for instance, mixes shiitake-infused whisky with maple syrup and umami bitters while the Rose Negroni sings with beautiful floral notes thanks to the use of rosewater and rose petal-infused gin.  If you’re a fan of these Japan-inspired cocktails, you’ll be spoilt for choice. There’s also a sake martini accented with housemade chamomile cordial, an original cocktail called Oribe made with gin, matcha, milk, wasanbon (fine-grained Japanese sugar) and gold powder, and even a pisco sour with hints of

This cosy cocktail den hidden in the Toranomon Hills Business Tower has one of the most interesting bar concepts in Tokyo. The plant-filled, wood-accented interior is reminiscent of a plush safari lodge and hints at the bar’s botanical leanings. While the menu features drinks made with fruit and herbs, the hero here is the cacao. Led by acclaimed bartender Shuzo Nagumo, Memento Mori celebrates cacao in its various forms – not just the final product that we are all too familiar with, ie, chocolate. The best way to savour this concept is with the Bean to Glass signature cocktail course, which comes with the option of having three, four or five items. The course starts with Memento Mori’s house cocktail, the Cacao Pulp Fizz, served in an eye-catching cacao pod no less. As its name suggests, this refreshing, effervescent, vodka-based cocktail is made with cacao fruit, which surprisingly tastes like mangosteen, along with vinegar made from said pulp and some passion fruit for hits of acidity.  The second drink marries the fruit of the season with a cacao nib-infused spirit. On our visit, we had a peach number that used cognac flavoured with cacao nibs and blue cheese. It was a bold combination that mixes sweet and savoury notes, but made for a lip-smacking delight. For the third item on the course, you get to choose between a cacao wine or a tasting flight of three cacao spirits. The former is a luscious Californian merlot steeped with cacao nibs and dried fruit while the latter c

Two of Japan’s most storied traditions – noh theatre and kaiseki cuisine – can be impenetrable and intimidating for the uninitiated. And that’s not just because of the language barrier: the formalities that rule both are laden with unspoken protocols. Suigian, an innovative dinner theatre hidden under the Fukutoku Shrine in Nihonbashi, seeks to make these Japanese performing and culinary art forms more approachable. Granted, dinner theatres, especially of the cultural kind, don’t always enjoy a favourable reputation – they are often associated with subpar food and tacky performances. Suigian, however, feels like a labour of love and there’s a sense of genuinity in everything it does. So much so that you’re advised not to eat during the noh part of the performances as a sign of respect (drinking, however, is fine, as the restaurant claims that it's only here you can enjoy noh over drinks). The evening shows, which start at 7pm, offer a crash course to traditional Japanese theatre. The programme changes monthly, featuring varied snippets of Geisha dance, kyogen (comic theatre), court music, kagura (ritual ceremonial dance) and, of course, noh. Notably, the noh segments are actual 15-to-20-minute acts adapted from renowned noh texts and performed by seasoned noh practitioners. You’ll get an explanation sheet with summaries of the evening’s show in English to help you connect with the craft unfolding on stage. Likewise, Suigian’s beautiful space, though contemporary in design, is

This newly opened Royal Park Hotel has the enviable Ginza address, but without the bank-breaking price tag commonly associated with this ritzy district. For visitors, the hotel is a central and convenient stay; it’s near Higashi-Ginza Station, which offers easy train access to major destinations in Tokyo including Asakusa as well as Narita and Haneda international airports. Moreover, a direct bus from Narita airport stops right across the road from the hotel. The Royal Park Hotel Ginza 6-chome exudes a cheerful and relaxed atmosphere, with a retro aesthetic expressed through vibrant colours – a style the hotel calls ‘Ginza Pop’. The sunny yellow and green shades at the reception and lobby are a nod to the abundance of ginkgo and willow trees surrounding the hotel. The rooms, meanwhile, are bedecked in either a red-orange hue or muted green, colours associated with the Kabukiza theatre just around the corner. Regardless of whether you’re going for a compact unit or a spacious corner suite, the accommodations at the hotel are well-appointed. Thoughtful features include the smart TV, which is connected to the hotel’s public amenities such as coin-operated washing machines and the communal sento bath, offering real-time information on whether they are available or occupied. Better yet, the gender-separated bath in the basement, which is reserved for staying guests, has no restrictions against tattoos. For food and drink, the Ginza Lamp-Tei restaurant on the ground floor serves a

Originating in Mayfair, London, Gentlemen’s Tonic offers traditional barbershop services with a modern styling. This is the award-winning establishment’s first foray into Malaysia (they have outlets in Hong Kong, New Delhi, Dubai and several other locations around the world), and their new space at Publika is handsome, especially with the dark wood interior and chrome gold finishing. Grooming remains the key service offered here and that includes haircuts, razor head shaves, scalp treatments, beard design, wet shaves and more. Granted, the brand targets the middle-to-high end of the market with cuts starting from RM115 and shaves from RM75. But what you’re paying for is the pampering experience and also the attention to detail, from the way your barber styles your hair down to the design of the chairs and mood lighting. What really sets Gentlemen’s Tonic apart from the pack is their wide-ranging menu that also offers facials, manicures and pedicures, and even massages, making this a one-stop centre for all your male grooming and pampering needs. Haircuts from RM115.

One of the most popular ramen restaurants in Ueno, Kamo to Negi specialises in duck noodles. Its simple recipe of just Japanese duck and leek – as its name suggests – simmered over low heat for two days, produces a beautifully clear stock that’s light yet flavourful. Add in a custom blend of three different types of soy sauce and you get a soup that sings with the meaty sweetness of duck without being gamey. Kamo to Negi also takes pride in not using any chemical additives in its ramen, while the excellent house-made noodles are springy and firm to the bite. A regular bowl of ramen here will only set you back ¥980. But we recommend you upgrade to a bowl with extra slices of duck meat (¥1,260), or go the whole hog with the special (¥1,480), which comes with wonton, onsen egg, bamboo shoots and additional slices of duck. On the menu are also duck tsukemen (dipping noodles) and a comforting oyakodon side dish featuring a deliciously runny egg and duck meat mixture served over piping hot rice. This branch in the newly opened Eato Lumine food hall on level B1 of JR Shinjuku Station (inside the ticket gates near the west exit) has 14 counter seats. And yes, it’s just as popular as the Ueno store. So be ready to queue – fortunately the line moves along briskly.

Spend enough time in Osaka and you’ll start noticing him everywhere – the same seated figure with a pointy head, round belly and a mischievous smile peeking through narrow eyes. If you haven’t been properly introduced, meet Billiken, the unofficial mascot of Osaka. True to Japan’s knack for adopting foreign ideas and making them its own, Billiken wasn’t originally Japanese. He was created by American artist Florence Pretz in 1908, but was wholeheartedly embraced by Osaka as a symbol of happiness, prosperity and good fortune. That’s why you often see people rubbing his feet. Photo: Uniqlo So if you are looking for a souvenir (and a lucky charm) that’s uniquely Osaka, check out the Uniqlo Osaka Festival running throughout August. For this special occasion, all 62 Uniqlo outlets in Osaka are carrying a capsule collection of four UTme! graphic T-shirts featuring colourful illustrations of Billiken. These limited-edition designs are available only in Osaka. Photo: UniqloThe two designs voted by Uniqlo Osaka staff Two of the designs were chosen by Uniqlo staff from Billiken Creators Osaka, an art project that invites the city’s creatives to reimagine Billiken in their respective styles. The other two T-shirts are original illustrations by artists Koji Toyoda and Urata Spancall, created exclusively for this Osaka event and not available anywhere else. Photo: UniqloVariations of Koji Toyoda's design exclusive to the Uniqlo Shinsaibashi and Uniqlo Namba City stores Known for his

Expo 2025, Osaka, Kansai, Japan is the place to explore the world as well as the latest advancements in science and technology. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to experience Japanese culture, as the Expo hosts regular Japan-specific events ranging from a monthly fireworks showcase to an upcoming sumo special. The national sport of Japan, sumo is more than just a battle of physical strength; it’s also a competition of mind, technique and discipline. Moreover, the sport is filled with rites and rituals that are deeply symbolic. And for two special days in early August, you’ll get to experience all that at the Expo. Photo: The Expo Grand Sumo Tournament The Expo Grand Sumo Tournament Sunday August 3, 9am-3pm, at Expo Exhibition Center Wasse The official Grand Sumo Tournament is making an exclusive stop at the Expo to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Japan Sumo Association. This majestic spectacle will bring together 200 sumo wrestlers from the association, including the highest ranked Yokozuna athletes. For this one-day special, you get to witness not only authentic sumo matches but also events not typically seen at a regular tournament. There will be sumo chants, taiko drum performances, public sumo practices with children, sumo technique demonstrations as well as the sacred ring-entering ceremony. The highlight, however, will be the sumo matches: the third division (Makushita) and below grapples at noon, and the top division (Makunouchi) at 2pm. Note that you’ll need

This summer, several of Tokyo’s most prestigious museums will be extending their opening hours on Friday. Dubbed the Summer Night Museum 2025, the event sees six art and cultural institutions – Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum, Tokyo Photographic Art Museum, Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo, Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum and Tokyo Shibuya Koen-dori Gallery – opening until 8pm or 9pm on Fridays from August 14 to September 26.  That’s not all. You can also expect reduced admission fees after 5pm (or free for students in certain cases), plus a host of evening programmes and activities to help you make the most of the long summer days. The museum shops and restaurants, likewise, will open late on those Fridays. Photo: 東京都美術館東京都美術館 Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum Friday opening hours extended until 8pm Enjoy ¥200 discount to the exhibition ‘The Whispering Land: Artists in Correspondence with Nature’ after 5pm (students get in for free) on July 26 as well as August 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30. There will also be 5 percent discount at the museum restaurants after 5.30pm every Friday during the event period.  Photo: supplied Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum Friday opening hours extended to 9pm from July 19 to August 30 Adults can enter the ‘Takehisa Yumeji: Taisho Romanticism and the New World’ exhibition for ¥1,120 instead of ¥1,400 after 5pm on July 19 and 26 as well as August 2, 9, 16 and 23. It’s free for students, however, and ¥560 for se

Kyoto’s immense popularity has brought big crowds, and understandably so, as the ancient capital is home to some of Japan’s most enchanting temples and Zen gardens. But if you’re looking to experience a different side of the city – lesser-known but no less charming attractions with fewer crowds – check out the Kyoto Summer Special Openings 2025. Running now through September 30, this seasonal programme is your key to a more hidden, tranquil Kyoto. Launched in 1975, the annual Summer Special offers a rare chance to step inside some of the city’s most treasured cultural landmarks that are normally closed to the public. This year’s theme, ‘Waterscapes to Visit in Summer and Modern Architecture Masterpieces of Kyoto’, brings together sacred temples and historical residences. Better still, all the featured sites are easily accessible by public transport from Kyoto Station. As a little taster, here are five highlights from this year’s programme. Photo: Higashi Honganji Temple Higashi Honganji Temple: Goei-do-mon Gate Just five minutes on foot from Kyoto Station, the majestic Higashi Honganji Temple’s Goei-do (Founder’s Hall) is one of the largest wooden structures in the world. Its Goei-do-mon Gate, at 27 metres high, is the tallest wooden temple gate in Japan. The gate’s second storey is now open to the public for a limited time. From here, you can look out at a sweeping view of Kyoto and its eastern mountains, as well as admire a collection of sacred Buddhist statues. Photo: N

We get it – there’s never enough time in Tokyo, no matter how much time you spend in this incredible city. But now you can squeeze in one last Japanese experience before flying out, right at Haneda Airport. Located on the 5th floor of Haneda Airport Terminal 1, Art Dash Gallery is an exhibition space and art shop that aims to not only promote Japanese art, but also give travellers the chance to bring a piece of it home. Its latest exhibition, titled ‘The Japan Art +’, does exactly that. Photo: The Japan Art + Running now through November 9, the exhibition showcases a variety of Japanese art forms, from Edo-period (1603–1868) ukiyo-e woodblock prints to modern and contemporary nihonga (Japanese-style painting), as well as ceramics by emerging artists. Among them is Tokyo-born Yuta Omori, whose works are innovative yet remain deeply rooted in tradition.  Many of the artworks are available for purchase, and they make for a much more memorable souvenir than some mass-produced trinket from Harajuku’s Takeshita Street. Photo: The Japan Art + But the real showstopper is the authentic mobile tea room, crafted by master temple carpenters using the traditional Japanese joinery technique known as kigumi. This elegant cubic structure is built entirely without a single nail. Even better, it’s not just for show. Art Dash Gallery plans to host regular tea ceremonies inside. (Check the gallery website for the schedule.) In addition to the tea ceremonies, the exhibition will also feature

While Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan explores the future in shapes including humanoid robots, a cultural centre on the other side of Osaka Bay is exhibiting another kind of human form – hyperrealistic sculptures of the body. ‘Reshaped Reality: 50 Years of Hyperrealistic Sculpture’ is a highly acclaimed travelling exhibition currently on show at the architecturally striking Osaka Culturarium, Tempozan (designed by Osaka-born starchitect Tadao Ando) until October 13. It features 39 hyperrealistic human sculptures by 27 world-renowned artists. This is the exhibition’s first showing in Japan, held as part of the Study: Osaka Kansai International Art Festival 2025, and follows successful runs in Spain and the Netherlands. Photo: Atsuhito Miyake The sculptures on show are uncannily lifelike; at times unnerving, yet deeply captivating. The human forms they portray may appear distorted or transformed, but are still startlingly realistic. They are awe-inspiring, yet they also prompt us to reflect on our own humanity, which is the exhibition’s main intention. © Sam Jinks/Courtesy of the artist, Sullivan+Strumpf, Sydney and Institute for Cultural Exchange, Tübingen Some of the standout works include ‘Untitled (Man in a sheet)’ by the UK-based Ron Mueck, ‘Woman and Child’ by Australian artist Sam Jinks, and ‘Ave Maria’ by Maurizio Cattelan, the Italian artist best known for his viral banana-taped-to-a-wall installation at 2019 Art Basel Miami Beach. Photo: Joachim Fliegner, Bremen |

Summer in Japan means traditional festivals, yukata (light, casual summer kimono) and street performances. And you can enjoy them all in Osaka’s bustling Umeda district, home to the city’s main transport hub, striking skyscrapers and world-class shopping. Running throughout the month of July, the annual Umeda Yukata Festival features a vibrant line-up of events and activities held across the area’s key locations, including Grand Front Osaka and Osaka Station City, to name just a few. While the entire month has something to offer, the main highlights take place around Umekita Plaza (the public square at Grand Front Osaka) over the weekend of July 19-20. Photo: Umeda Yukata Festival Bon Odori dancing and live performances The festival’s standout event is undoubtedly the Yukata de Bon Odori on July 19-20. Led by the Kita Ward Regional Women’s Association, this joyous celebration invites everyone to come together for some traditional Japanese street dancing. The event is free and open to all. Just head to the yagura stage at Umekita Plaza between 6pm and 8pm, and follow the dancers as classic Japanese tunes fill the air. If you do only one thing during your time in Japan this summer, make it a Bon Odori festival. It’s the quintessential and most iconic of all Japanese summer celebrations. Photo: Umeda Yukata Festival Also over the same weekend, join in a traditional water-sprinkling ritual to symbolically cool the streets. Be sure to gather at Umekita Plaza on Saturday July 1

Travelling becomes far more enjoyable when you see your hotels as part of the experience, rather than just places to sleep. If you’re travelling as a group – whether with family or like-minded friends – check out the newly renovated Pokémon Rooms at Mimaru. These spacious, apartment-style accommodations offer a relaxing retreat after a day of sightseeing, all while immersing you in the iconic world of Pokémon. Photo: ©Pokémon. ©Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK inc. Mimaru’s Pokémon Rooms have been a hit since their launch five years ago. Now, they’ve been redesigned with even more Pocket Monster magic. The much-loved giant Snorlax plushie on the bed is still there, along with the exclusive Poké Ball-themed tableware and linens.  Photo: ©Pokémon. ©Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK inc. However, the new design features 100 different Pokémon throughout the space, from the walls and ceilings to the bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchens. They’re placed to reflect their habitats, too: Water-type Pokémon appear in the bathroom while food-loving Pokémon gather in the kitchen. It’s a playfully immersive stay for children and grown-up Pokémon Trainers alike. Photo: ©Pokémon. ©Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK inc. Even better, guests staying in a Pokémon Room receive exclusive Pokémon-themed goodies created especially for Mimaru. Depending on your room type, you might score a laundry bag, pouches or stickers. Photo: ©Pokémon. ©Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK inc. Mimaru is a

Summer is the season for fireworks festivals in Japan. But for those of you who find it too hot to sit outdoors, there’s one happening in late autumn, just as the cooler weather sets in. Taking place on November 1 at Marble Beach in Rinku Park, in the Osaka prefecture city of Izumisano, Osaka Art Fireworks 2025 blends pyrotechnics with music to create a rousing reimagining of the traditional fireworks display. According to the organisers, the fireworks will be computer-controlled and so precisely choreographed – down to 1/30th of a second – that they’ll be in perfect sync with the rhythm and vocals of the accompanying music. Photo: Osaka Art Fireworks The hour-long show is produced by the Sapporo-based fireworks collective Great Sky Art, who are representing Japan at the prestigious Montreal International Fireworks Competition this month. This performance in Osaka is being billed as their triumphant homecoming, so you can expect world-class production values and breathtaking fireworks designs. What’s more, the show draws inspiration from the venue and the Kansai region, making it a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Photo: Osaka Art Fireworks With clear, unobstructed views across Osaka Bay, Marble Beach is considered an ideal location for fireworks. It’s worth arriving early to catch the sunset, which is ranked among Japan’s Top 100, before the fireworks launch at 6pm. Osaka Art Fireworks is a ticketed event, with two main viewing areas to choose from. On the Marble Beach si

Sky lanterns have become a symbol of hope and peace – and, of course, an Instagram sensation – with several cities across Asia hosting festivals to release these beauties into the night. Now, you can experience it for yourself in the city of Sennan in Osaka prefecture. Held over the July 5–6 weekend at Tarui Southern Beach in Sennan Long Park, the Senshu Beach Lantern Festival is set to release 1,000 lanterns each evening at around 7.30pm. For safety and environmental reasons – and with the venue just across the water from Kansai International Airport – the lanterns are tethered with strings and don’t float away. They’re also lit with LEDs, meaning no fire hazards – and safe for kids, too. Photo: Senshu Beach Lantern Festival While entry to the event is free, you’ll need a ticket to release a lantern or access the special viewing areas. The ¥4,500 Lantern Exchange Ticket allows a group of up to four to release one lantern. Photo: Senshu Beach Lantern Festival There are also Family and Pair Seats, priced at ¥4,000 and ¥2,000 respectively, and include drinks (four for families, two for couples). These tickets grant access to the premium viewing area only, so you’ll need to purchase a lantern separately should you wish to release one. Photo: Senshu Beach Lantern Festival Of course, there’s more to the Senshu Beach Lantern Festival than just lanterns. Kids can enjoy traditional festival games and a giant bouncy castle. There’s also a karaoke booth, and street performances i

Summertime is festival time in Tokyo. And while many associate the season with Bon Odori, that’s not the only celebration happening around this time of year. Kicking off the festive summer season is Tanabata, a traditional Japanese festival with origins in Chinese folklore. According to legend, deity couple Orihime and Hikoboshi are separated by the Milky Way, and they are only able to meet once a year: on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month. Tanabata, or the Star Festival, celebrates the day of their reunion. As Japan has largely dropped the lunar dating system in favour of the Gregorian calendar, Tanabata is commonly celebrated on July 7, which falls on a Monday this year. However, some regions in the country still honour the lunar date, so you’ll find some Tanabata festivities being held in August. The Star Festival is associated with grand, colourful streamers decorating streets, shopping malls and temples. Another popular custom is to write your wishes on strips of paper and hang them on bamboo trees.  Tanabata is one of the most joyous and colourful traditional celebrations in Tokyo – and it offers great photo opportunities. So if you’re in the city this July 4-6 weekend, put any of these three Star Festivals on your to-do list. Photo: Zojoji TempleZojoji Tanabata Festival Zojoji Tanabata Festival July 6-7 Zojoji's version of the celebration features a beautiful candle light-up on Saturday and Sunday from 6pm to 9pm. Hundreds of washi paper lanterns are arrange

Kyoto is more than just temples. It may come as a surprise that Japan’s ancient capital is also home to the country’s oldest public botanical garden. Fresh off its 100th anniversary last year, the Kyoto Botanical Gardens is now opening its doors after dark for a one-of-a-kind multimedia experience. Photo: Kyoto Botanical GardensKyoto Botanical Gardens When Light Cycles Kyoto debuted last year, it was a hit despite being held for just two months. Building on that success, the night event is now operating year-round, running until March 31 2026. The best part? The entire event takes place inside the botanical garden’s covered conservatory, making it enjoyable regardless of the weather. Produced by the Montreal-based multimedia studio Moment Factory, Light Cycles Kyoto is an immersive sensory experience that uses light and sound not only to reveal the relationships plants have with nature, but also to create a new way for us to appreciate them. Photo: Light Cycles Kyoto'Light Will Find You' The experience is designed as a journey through four zones. You start with ‘Light Will Find You’, inspired by komorebi, that peaceful, magical moment when sunlight filters through tree canopies. Here, the same phenomenon is recreated using artificial light to cast dappled patterns that break up the darkness of night. Photo: Light Cycles Kyoto The second zone, ‘Memory of Water’, pays tribute to the vital element. Moment Factory uses light waves and the sounds of thunder and rain to empha