Lim Chee Wah

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    

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 what makes a neighbourhood truly cool. From formerly overlooked sub

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.

Sushi Azabu is rather uncommon in that this restaurant is a foreign import – from the United States – rather than a domestic outfit with overseas locations, as is the case with many Japanese sushi establishments. Nevertheless, this beautifully designed eatery brings with it an impressive pedigree: its sister restaurants in Manhattan, New York and Miami Beach, Florida were previously proud owners of a Michelin star each. Sushi Azabu has the classic wood-dominated interior of a high-end sushi restaurant. But here the design feels fresh and modern, largely thanks to the bold strokes of contemporary calligraphy artist Rintaro Hashiguchi, whose artwork stretches across the entire wall behind the L-shaped counter. Despite its address in swanky Azabudai Hills, Sushi Azabu’s menu is surprisingly affordable. The restaurant sources its seafood from Toyosu Market, as any reputable food operator would, and turns it into multi-course omakase meals. Lunch offers the best deal: about 14 items including nigiri sushi as well as the restaurant’s signature sesame tofu served on a sizzling hot plate, all for just ¥4,800. Dinner is, of course, more sumptuous. For ¥9,800, you’ll get to enjoy around 17 items featuring premium seasonal fish and seafood, the likes of fatty tuna, uni and more. Online reservation is highly recommended to secure a spot at the 19-seat counter.

Anyone who’s been to a fireworks festival in Japan will know just how breathtaking it can be. With a variety of explosion patterns synchronised to music and displays that typically last around an hour, it’s one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have in the country. If you haven’t had the chance yet, don’t worry. Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan is giving you an opportunity to check this quintessential Japanese experience off your list. Photo: Japan Fireworks Expo So, try to time your Osaka Expo visit to coincide with the Japan Fireworks Expo, a monthly programme showcasing a fireworks festival from a different part of Japan. Each show lasts around five to ten minutes and spotlights a fireworks producer central to that festival. This means every display is completely one of a kind, created especially for that night, and tells a unique story rooted in history, tradition and local spirit. The organisers, the Japan Fireworks Project, hope the event will not only introduce the world to Japan’s distinctive fireworks culture, but also help preserve this art form while highlighting the charm of some of the country’s lesser-known regions. Photo: Japan Fireworks ExpoThe Futaba Fireworks showcase on May 31 In April, the Japan Fireworks Expo featured the Ise Shrine Dedication National Fireworks Festival from Mie prefecture, and last month, it was Futaba Fireworks from Fukushima, a prefecture in the Tohoku region that is still recovering from the devastating 2011 earthquake.

With remote work and digital nomadism growing in popularity, the world is your workstation. But finding a quiet spot to work isn’t always as easy as it sounds. Co-working spaces can be expensive, and often require a membership. Cafés may be noisy, and staff might shoot you a judging look if you linger too long over the cheapest item on the menu. Photo: Self-CafeSelf-Cafe – Shinsaibashi Tokyu Building outlet Osaka has a solution for you. Enter Self-Cafe: unmanned cafés with multiple locations across the city, offering high-speed wi-fi, ample power outlets and the freedom to stay as long as you like – all for the price of just one drink, starting from as low as ¥420. Most locations are even open 24 hours, while the few that aren’t stay open till as late as 2am. Photo: Self-CafeSelf-Cafe – Tanimachi 9-chome outlet With no staff and most patrons there to focus, Self-Cafe is a quiet, low-distraction environment that makes it easy to concentrate. Furthermore, its no-time-limit policy makes it convenient not just for getting work done, but also for taking a break to charge your phone before heading back out to explore Osaka. Photo: Self-CafeSelf-Cafe – Minami-Morimachi outlet There’s no need for a membership or reservation – just buy a drink from the vending machine, which offers more than just coffee. Options include jasmine tea, matcha latte, hot chocolate and hot water. Payment is easy, as the machines accept cash, transport IC cards, credit cards, QR codes and other contac

Kyoto is one of Japan’s most visited cities, and that popularity has increasingly led to overcrowding. In response, city officials have been exploring various solutions, including the recent introduction of dedicated sightseeing buses for tourists. This month, a new initiative aims to increase Kyoto’s nighttime attractions and, in turn, help redistribute tourist activity beyond the usual hotspots and daytime rush. Photo: Kyoto Night MarketHigashi Honganji temple The inaugural Kyoto Night Market is set to take place on Sunday June 8 at the Ohigashi-san Plaza in front of Higashi Honganji. This stately Buddhist temple is one of Kyoto’s most easily accessible heritage sites, as it’s located in the city centre, less than 10 minutes’ walk from Kyoto Station. From 3pm to 10pm, the square will be decorated with lanterns and host around 70 booths offering traditional Japanese arts and crafts, local produce, street food and craft beer. But there’s more to this event than just eating and shopping – you can easily make a night of it. Photo: Kyoto Night MarketNinja shows by Koka Ninja Village Modern-day ninjas from Shiga prefecture’s Koka Ninja Village theme park will be putting on performances, while students from Kyoto’s Doshisha University will be offering rickshaw rides. The night market will also feature classic festival booths with retro games such as goldfish scooping and yo-yo fishing, all run by elementary school kids. This effort aims to instil entrepreneurial spirit in loca

With permanent spaces in major cities across Japan including Tokyo and Osaka, it’s about time teamLab opened one in Kyoto. So, good news: the world-famous art collective is finally launching a permanent museum right in the heart of the ancient capital come autumn. Called teamLab Biovortex Kyoto, this immersive art space is part of a new creative hub within the Kyoto Station Southeast Area Project. While details are still scarce, we do know the museum will showcase all-new artworks including some never before seen in Japan. The pieces are made of materials you wouldn’t normally expect in conventional art, and in typical teamLab fashion, you can literally step into the installations. Here are four artworks teamLab recently revealed for the new museum. Photo: teamLab, Massless Amorphous Sculpture © teamLab (Reference image)Massless Amorphous Sculpture Massless Amorphous Sculpture At first glance, this piece looks like a floating mass of soap bubbles. It’s certainly no typical sculpture, being neither solid nor gaseous. According to teamLab, this ‘Higher Order Sculpture’ is made of ‘energy, movement and balance’. It interacts with the people around it: it can wrap around a viewer and even reconfigure itself if it gets pulled apart. Despite looking delicate, it holds its shape surprisingly well, as long as the environment is right. Photo: teamLab, Massless Suns and Dark Suns © teamLab (Reference image)Massless Suns and Dark Suns Massless Suns and Dark Suns This endless field o

Japan’s tropical paradise, Okinawa, is a postcard image of pristine beaches, clear azure waters and rich culture. A new attraction set to open this summer, however, will spotlight the island prefecture’s stunning forests instead. Set in the lush Yanbaru National Park in the north of the main Okinawa island, Junglia Okinawa is a sprawling amusement park that lets you explore the vibrant green landscape in an active way. The park will feature 22 attractions, 15 dining facilities, 10 shops and a rejuvenating spa – all set against a backdrop of dense jungle. Here’s what to expect from Junglia Okinawa. Photo: Junglia Okinawa There will be dinosaurs One section of Junglia takes you back to the Jurassic age. Hop into an off-road safari vehicle for a close encounter with 20 life-sized dinosaurs, including a towering 19-metre Brachiosaurus and a formidable T-Rex. For a gentler adventure, families can follow a jungle trail in search of a lost baby Pachyrhinosaurus and meet seven baby dinos along the way. Photo: Junglia Okinawa There will be thrills Junglia eschews traditional rides in favour of high-adrenaline experiences. Soar 200 metres into the sky in a hot air balloon for sweeping views of the jungle and sea. Then, tear through rugged terrain in an off-road buggy, zip-line from a 19-metre tower, launch yourself as a human catapult, take a backward free-fall from high up, or brave rope bridges across deep jungle ravines. It’s a playground for thrill-seekers. Photo: Junglia Okin

One of Japan’s most distinctive attractions, Ghibli Park celebrates the beloved characters and stories of the world-renowned Studio Ghibli. Unlike traditional theme parks, it doesn’t feature any rides. Instead, it recreates iconic scenes and settings from the studio’s anime, fulfilling fans’ dreams of stepping into the films’ richly imagined worlds in real life. While the park normally closes at 5pm, on three consecutive Saturdays this summer (August 2, 9 and 16), it will extend its opening hours until 8pm. This marks the first time Ghibli Park will remain open past sundown, and we’re sure the illuminated night setting will make the grounds look even more magical. Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaGhibli's Grand Warehouse Although Ghibli Park is made up of five zones, only three will be included in this after-hours special. Fortunately, these are the park’s most popular areas: Mononoke Village (inspired by Princess Mononoke), Valley of Witches (featuring settings from Howl’s Moving Castle, Kiki’s Delivery Service and Earwig and the Witch), and Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse (a sprawling museum of sorts dedicated to the studio’s greatest hits). Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaThe Valley of Witches at Ghibli Park Admission tickets for August, including access to the evening sessions, will go on sale at 2pm on Tuesday June 10. On those three special days, Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse will offer additional entry slots at 4pm and 5pm. Take your time and wander, but don’t miss the 7.30pm last entry for the Vall

Did you know that Japan has more than 200 castles still standing in some form today? Once symbols of the nation’s martial prowess, Japanese castles stand out with their multi-tiered wooden architecture, elegant curved roofs, steep stone bases and maze-like layouts. Built as much for asserting authority as for defence, they continue to captivate and remain high on many visitors’ must-see lists. Since 2019, Shirobito, a Japanese online media platform specialising in castles, compiles an annual list of Japan’s top 20 castles based on votes from its large readership. This ranking, known as Castle of the Year, features a different theme each time; for 2025, it’s ‘Castles You’d Recommend to Foreign Visitors to Japan’. Photo: Perati Komson/DreamstimeMatsumoto Castle Topping the list is Matsumoto Castle in Nagano prefecture. Affectionately nicknamed the Crow Castle due to its black facade, this striking fortress claimed the top spot thanks to its picturesque moat, imposing keep and scenic location, with the Northern Alps looming in the background. Photo: Mr. Siwabud Veerapaisarn/DreamstimeHimeji Castle The world-famous Himeji Castle in Hyogo prefecture – which inspired the castle emoji – came in a close second, missing the top spot by just two votes. Also known as the White Heron Castle, this Unesco World Heritage Site is widely regarded as a masterpiece of 17th-century Japanese castle architecture.  Aichi prefecture’s Inuyama Castle, which sports a charming castle town and authe

With the theme ‘Designing future society for our lives’, which emphasises sustainability, inclusivity and innovation, Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan naturally offers a diverse range of dining options to suit various dietary requirements. While traditional Japanese cuisine has not always been the most accommodating in this regard, one forward-looking restaurant at the Expo is reimagining one of the nation’s most iconic dishes – ramen – to make it more inclusive and accessible to all. As its name suggests, GF Ramen Lab Expo 2025 Store offers a completely gluten-free take on the classic Japanese noodles. Every component, from the noodles to the broth and toppings, is prepared in a dedicated gluten-free facility to avoid any cross-contamination, and then freshly cooked in-store. That’s turned out to be a recipe for success: the restaurant has served over 10,000 bowls within its first month of opening. Photo: GF Ramen Lab Expo 2025 Store Here, the gluten-free noodles recreate the distinctive chewiness of traditional wheat noodles by kneading alkaline water into a rice flour dough. The soy sauce, meanwhile, is a special gluten-free recipe that replaces wheat with rice. Photo: GF Ramen Lab Expo 2025 StoreGF Shoyu Ramen The GF Shoyu Ramen is the restaurant’s signature bowl, featuring a flavourful umami broth made from kelp and seasoned with the aforementioned gluten-free soy sauce. It’s topped with two kinds of char siu pork, bamboo shoots and Japanese parsley. Photo: GF Ramen L

Sanrio Puroland may be one of the cutest places in Tokyo, home to beloved characters like Hello Kitty, Kuromi and Pompompurin. Fans flock to this family-friendly attraction for its whimsical rides, engaging shows and meet-and-greets – all wonderfully fun, cutesy and suitable for visitors of all ages. But for two nights this summer, the magic will take a terrifying turn. In a special collaboration with Obaken, a Tokyo-based horror attraction operator known for haunted houses and themed cafés, Sanrio Puroland will be overrun by zombies on two consecutive Saturdays, June 28 and July 5. Don’t worry, your beloved Hello Kitty and friends aren’t turning into the undead – this is a completely separate, after-hours event. Photo: © 2025 Sanrio Co., Ltd. Tokyo, Japan Titled ‘Obaken Zombieland in Sanrio Puroland: Rebirth Code’, the spine-chilling event is billed as the largest of its kind in the Kanto region. Once the daytime guests have left and the clock strikes 7pm, Puroland will transform into a dystopian nightmare. According to the event’s storyline, a long-dormant infection has mutated and resurfaced, triggering an emergency lockdown. The infected roam the grounds while special forces attempt to contain the chaos. Photo: © 2025 Sanrio Co., Ltd. Tokyo, Japan To mark its 10th anniversary this year, the immersive horror experience will introduce a new breed of zombie called the Resurrector. These undead creatures are said to be more intelligent and aggressive than ever before. Par

As Osaka transitions from spring into summer, the city comes alive with outdoor events. One of the most atmospheric among them is Nishi-Umeda Candle Days, which is happening on Wednesday June 4 and celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. For one night only from 4pm to 10pm, the vibrant Nishi-Umeda neighbourhood will be set aglow with candlelight. There will be candle art exhibitions and installations, live music, workshops, pop-up cafés, markets and more. To ensure the candlelight remains the star, surrounding buildings will go dark for two hours from 8pm to 10pm, allowing this side of Osaka to glow in warm, flickering light. Photo: Nishi-Umeda Candle Days Candle Corridor, 6pm-10pm Candle installations and formations by Osaka-based artists and students will be scattered across Nishi-Umeda, turning the neighbourhood into a glowing outdoor gallery. Many of these works are created especially for the event and can only be seen on this night. Photo: Nishi-Umeda Candle Days Nishiume Andon, 6pm-10pm At the Herbis Plaza square, paper bags decorated with children’s dreams and wishes will be illuminated to create a heartwarming display of hope. Photo: Nishi-Umeda Candle Days Candle June Installation, 6pm-10pm This large-scale installation at Nishi-Umeda Park is expected to be the most photogenic feature of Candle Days, with a visually striking formation made from thousands of candles.  Here, you can take part by writing a message or prayer on a white candle holder and adding i

Been on Instagram long enough and you’ve have probably seen that viral shot of Rurikoin in Kyoto, where vibrant autumn foliage is reflected on an impeccably polished table. The good news is, Rurikoin isn’t the only temple in Japan offering this breathtaking sight. That means you can skip the crowds and still capture a similarly stunning shot elsewhere. Better yet, you don’t have to wait until autumn. Photo: Tokoji TempleTokoji Temple's main hall A registered cultural property known for its elegant main hall with a cypress bark roof, Tokoji Temple will host a special, three-nights-only weekend event from June 6 to 8, giving you a rare chance to experience its serene surroundings after dark. Set in the rural reaches of Yamagata city in Gifu prefecture, the temple will illuminate its lush greenery to set the scene. This is what you’re here for: to capture the perfect #reflectiongram in the main hall, where the illuminated foliage appears not only in the background but also mirrored on a perfectly polished surface. Don’t worry if you’re unsure of your photography skills – staff will be on hand to help you capture that shot. However, to ensure everyone has a fair chance, each person is limited to 30 seconds and only one shot is allowed. Additionally, monopods and tripods are not permitted. Photo: Shinichi Yamaguchi/Tokoji That’s not all. The temple will also serve special dishes inspired by the fresh spring greenery. You can enjoy a bowl of chirashi sushi topped with luscious

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