Lim Chee Wah

Kyoto is one of Japan’s top autumn destinations, renowned for its abundance of vibrant autumn foliage in atmospheric temples. Many of these are Unesco World Heritage Sites, thus making the scenery truly special. The experience becomes even more magical at night, when temple grounds and autumn leaves are illuminated in brilliant colours. To ensure you don’t miss this limited-time spectacle, here are some of the top temples and gardens in Kyoto that open at night for special illumination events, including Byodoin, Kiyomizu-dera, Toji and more. RECOMMENDED: 9 amazing places to see autumn leaves in Osaka

Looking for the best things to do in Osaka this weekend? As autumn has now set in, it’s the perfect time to get outside and rediscover all that Osaka has to offer, including some of the city’s most vibrant autumn leaves and seasonal illuminations. Whether you’re planning ahead or searching for fun things to do in Osaka today, we’ve rounded up the most exciting events, festivals, illuminations and activities happening across the city this week. From art exhibitions to lively festivals and free cultural experiences, Osaka is always buzzing with energy. Scroll down to explore our curated list of the best things to do in Osaka and start planning your perfect weekend now. RECOMMENDED: Making a trip to Kyoto? Be sure to check out these stunning temple and garden illuminations.

Ramen may be the world’s most famous Japanese noodle, and udon has long been synonymous with Osaka, but soba has always flown under the radar. Yet true connoisseurs know that soba is an art. Buckwheat naturally contains no gluten, making it notoriously tricky to work with: it is brittle and lacks elasticity. That’s why many restaurants add wheat flour when making their soba noodles. The masters, however, stick to 100 percent buckwheat, resulting in a firmer, nuttier bite with a subtly toasty flavour. In Osaka, this craft is well represented, with some restaurants even serving two types of soba: one made from polished buckwheat, and the other from whole buckwheat with husks included, creating a more complex, textured flavour. To get you initiated into the world of juwari, or 100 percent pure buckwheat soba, here are three restaurants where you can experience this exceptional Japanese noodle. We recommend ordering the noodles plain, with just dipping sauce, to fully appreciate their delicate flavour and unique texture. Of course, you can always add a side of tempura to make it a full meal, or enjoy your soba in a hot duck broth, which is another popular way to savour it. RECOMMENDED: 100 must-go restaurants in Osaka

This list is from 2024. Our latest ranking for 2025 is live here. Ticking off the main tourist attractions on a city break is all well and good, but it’s only when you veer off down a side street or stumble across a leafy avenue that you really get a glimpse of a city’s true character. Streets are the heart of local life; they’re where communities come together, where new local businesses become go-to staples and where urbanites go out, hang out and have fun.  So what are the world’s coolest streets worth a stroll right now? To find the answer, we reached out to our global team of local expert editors and contributors, who each made a case for the coolest street in their city. We then narrowed down the selection to create a definitive ranking of the best avenues, thoroughfares, backstreets and boulevards on the planet. And so you have it: the coolest streets in the world’s best cities. Over the last few years, street life has gone through something of an evolution. Outdoor drinking and dining, at one point a temporary measure, has become a staple on many of the streets on our hotlist; only bolstered by green initiatives like pedestrianisation and low-traffic avenues. In other words, these streets have become much more walkable and pleasant places to spend our time. On every street on this list, there are bold, creative new ventures in food, drink, nightlife and culture: from listening bars to repurposed heritage buildings, these streets are where you’ll find a city’s most ex

As the nights grow longer and the air turns crisp, Osaka transforms into a glowing wonderland. Streets, parks and iconic landmarks sparkle with colourful lights after sundown, creating breathtaking scenes to usher in the year-end and Christmas celebrations. From the glittering installations at Osaka Castle to the dazzling displays along Midosuji, the city’s winter illuminations and Christmas light-ups are a sight to behold. Here we’ve rounded up the top spots to experience these magical light displays. So layer up and step out for a joyful evening stroll. Osaka truly comes alive after dark during this festive season. RECOMMENDED: 5 best Kyoto temples and gardens for stunning autumn night illuminations

Osaka is famous for its food, but its cultural scene is just as vibrant. As the heart of the Kansai region, the city is packed with museums and galleries presenting a diverse array of exhibitions year-round – from contemporary installations and immersive digital art to thought-provoking commentary and timeless traditional works. With so much to explore, we’re here to help you focus on the most exciting and worthwhile shows. Browse our curated list below and get ready to be inspired by Osaka’s dynamic art world. RECOMMENDED: 12 best things to do in Nakanoshima, Osaka's museum island

タイムアウト大阪 > Things to Do > 大阪、この冬行きたいイルミネーション＆ライトアップイベント 夜が長くなり、空気が澄みわたる季節。大阪の街は光り輝く幻想的な世界へと姿を変える。通りや公園、そして名所が夜になるとカラフルな光に包まれ、年末の街を華やかに彩る。 大阪城の壮大なライトアップから御堂筋のきらめくイルミネーションまで、冬の光景は街の至る所で壮観だ。本記事では見逃せないスポットを紹介。暖かくして、光あふれる夜の散歩に出かけよう。大阪は、この季節に一層輝きを増す。 関連記事『大阪、11月から12月に行くべきアート展』

A sliver of land between two rivers – the Dojimagawa and Tosaborigawa – Nakanoshima was a bustling trading hub during the Edo period (1603–1867). Today, this scenic waterfront postcode serves as Osaka’s financial, administrative and cultural centre. At first glance, Nakanoshima may appear all business, with its sleek skyscrapers and office towers, but this island is also home to some of the city’s finest art museums and cultural attractions. As such, Nakanoshima is often hailed as Osaka’s unofficial museum island. It’s easy to spend a whole day here wandering through art exhibitions and galleries, so we’ve included some of our favourite cafés and restaurants on this list, where you can refuel and take a breather between museum visits. RECOMMENDED: Osaka is getting three fireworks festivals this autumn and tickets are out now

Umeda is one of the best places to stay in Osaka. Not only is it the city’s primary transportation hub – served by multiple train lines and the massive Osaka Station – but it’s also home to the year’s most anticipated new development: Grand Green Osaka. This state-of-the-art mixed-use complex brings together shopping, offices, hotels, lifestyle amenities and the sprawling Umekita Park to create a vibrant new cityspace.  At the heart of it all is the shiny new Hotel Hankyu Gran Respire Osaka, which opened in March in the South Building of Grand Green Osaka. With direct connection to Osaka Station, it’s perfectly positioned to take full advantage of everything this dynamic district has to offer. Yet, despite the buzz of the city right outside its doors, Hotel Hankyu Gran Respire Osaka is thoughtfully designed with rest and rejuvenation in mind. The hotel incorporates natural design elements throughout its interior, from the plant-covered wall at the entrance to the abundance of greenery scattered throughout its property. A soothing palette of earthy tones further enhances the serene atmosphere. The guest rooms prioritise comfort and ease. Each is equipped with modern essentials such as smart TVs and separate baths and toilets, along with floor-to-ceiling windows that let in plenty of natural light and picturesque views of the Umeda area. The hotel has a fitness room, coin laundry and guest lounge. So, if you're looking for a brand-new hotel that offers city-centre convenience

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

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

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

When it opened in 2010, the St. Regis Osaka became the brand’s first property in Japan, and remains its only one in the country. To this day, it has upheld the brand’s reputation as one of the most esteemed luxury hotels around. The service, a hallmark of the brand, is exceptional, and it reflects Japan’s deep tradition of omotenashi. Naturally, the St. Regis Osaka stays true to the brand’s timeless approach to luxury. Here, however, lofty ceilings, marble finishes, tasteful chandeliers, plush carpets and modern art pieces are complemented by Japanese refinement. Clean lines and unfussy furnishings give the hotel an understated, contemporary feel. There’s even a Japanese rock garden on the 12th-floor outdoor terrace, adding to the hotel’s distinct sense of place. Photo: The St. Regis Osaka What are the rooms like at the St. Regis Osaka? To perfectly deliver its signature rituals and service (more on that later), St. Regis hotels around the world are designed as small to medium-sized properties. The St. Regis Osaka is no different, with just 160 rooms and suites. I stayed in a Grand Deluxe Room and it was pure indulgence. The king bed faces a floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall window, offering a sweeping view of the Osaka skyline and distant mountains. A chaise lounge sits beside this panorama, perfect for kicking back with a cup of coffee after a day exploring the city. The room’s amenities are equally luxurious: double vanity, rain shower with separate bathtub, walk-in closet

Tucked away in a quiet corner of the serene Zentis Osaka hotel, Upstairz bar offers a calming retreat from the city’s pulsating nightlife. The space carries a clean, refined polish, anchored by an island bar with a row of cosy little booths running along one wall. However, don’t let its relaxed, living room-like ambience fool you into thinking this is just another hotel drinking den. Upstairz bar is led by award-winning bartender Norihiko Furuse, who has made his mark in some of the region’s top industry competitions. At the 2022 Rémy Martin Bartender Talent Competition, he placed in the top eight, while at Diageo World Class 2024, he secured a spot in the Japan top ten. What’s particularly interesting about Upstairz is its long list of original cocktails, many of which are built around fruit, herbs and shochu, a clear Japanese spirit distilled from rice, barley, sweet potatoes or buckwheat, similar to vodka.  On the menu, you’ll find Furuse’s Wine of Citrus Heart, an immensely drinkable blend of gin, grapefruit, shiso and Timut pepper, which won the Refreshing Challenge at the 2022 Diageo World Class Japan final. For a Japan-inspired concoction, the Wasabi Smash offers a lip-smacking introduction to the iconic flavours of wasabi and shiso, rounded out with lemon, orgeat, tequila and gin.

The largest noodle festival in western Japan, Ramen Expo gathers 60 of the best ramen restaurants from Osaka and across the country for a lip-smacking celebration of Japan’s iconic noodle dish. This massive foodie event will take over the festival square at Expo '70 Commemorative Park for six consecutive weekends, offering a delicious foray into Japan’s diverse ramen culture. With a fresh set of vendors each weekend, this ramen extravaganza offers the perfect opportunity to slurp your way through a wide variety of unique, regional and inventive noodle creations. So bring a big appetite and get ready to indulge in some of the best ramen Japan has to offer Admission to the event is free, but there’s a general park entry fee of ¥260 for adults and ¥80 for elementary and junior high school students. Ramen purchases are made through special tickets, available online in advance or on-site (cash only). Here’s a preview of the mouthwatering bowls you can expect each weekend: November 22–24: Bullabaisse-style seafood salt ramen from Okayama, beef bone soy sauce ramen from Miyazaki, and Hokkaido-style miso ramen from Osaka. November 28–30: Snow crab salt ramen and sea bream dandan noodles from Osaka, and miso ramen with extra-large char siu from Sapporo. December 5–7: Lobster salt ramen from Shizuoka, Daisen chicken salt ramen from Gunma, and snow crab soup ramen from Osaka. December 12–14: Crab miso butter chicken ramen from Gunma, rich tonkotsu ramen from Fukuoka, and yuzu chicken wh

This outstanding soba restaurant is easily one of the most affordable Michelin-rated meals in Osaka, with a serving of buckwheat noodles costing as little as ¥1,100. The downside is that Takama is only open for about three hours over lunch. And oh, there’s always a queue. The tiny restaurant can only seat 12 diners, eight across a communal table and four around a smaller one.  But good things come to those who wait. Takama offers two types of noodles: mori is the regular style of soba made from hulled buckwheat flour (known as marunuki) while the inaka soba uses whole buckwheat flour, hull and all. The latter looks rough and rustic, but it’s revelatory in its firmer bite and nuttiness – definitely a winner in our books. You can enjoy the soba as is with a dipping sauce or have it served with either an assortment of tempura (¥2,600) or a hot duck broth for dipping (¥2,000). You’d be remiss to skip the small but well-curated list of side dishes. The delightful dashimaki-tamago (rolled omelette) and the moreish yaki-miso (grilled miso with leek and buckwheat seeds) make for a good snack while waiting for your noodles. But the true standout is the umami-rich tofu no misozuke (tofu pickled in miso for six months). Something of an acquired taste, it’s got a salty pungency and ganache-like texture that are reminiscent of good cheese. 

Set in a restored traditional Japanese house in a quiet part of Osaka, Ayamedo is an affordable Bib Gourmand restaurant in the city. Its retro interior, coupled with a calming inner garden, is made for long meals – and you’ll want to linger over a few choice delicacies off the short but well-curated menu.  Soba (from ¥1,000) is the speciality here, with varieties ranging from cold dipping soba to belly-warming soup soba. As for the noodles, the restaurant makes them two ways. The hosogiri (thin-cut) soba is made purely from hulled buckwheat flour; it’s smooth and has a delicate sweetness. The arabiki (course-ground) soba, on the other hand, has a rustic appearance and a richer, nuttier mouthfeel, thanks to the buckwheat that is ground whole with chaff. There’s also a varied list of classic and seasonal home-cooked dishes to complement your noodles, including miso-cured tofu, salt-grilled duck, Japanese rolled omelette, chicken liver simmered in ginger, and firefly squid salad (seasonal), just to name a few. Pair them with any of the sake options on the menu and you’ll have one of the most satisfying quintessential Japanese meals in Osaka.

Every year-end season, people around the world dress up as Santa Claus for charity runs, and Osaka’s Santa Parade, which was modelled after the Santa Run in Edinburgh, is joining in again this year on Sunday December 7. The parade is a fun run (or walk, if you prefer) through the expansive Osaka Castle Park. The participation fee includes a Santa costume, though you can also come in your own Christmas outfit. It’s all for a good cause, with proceeds going towards Christmas presents for children battling illness. What’s more, beloved Japanese character Rilakkuma will make a special appearance in a Santa costume, entertaining participants on stage and cheering them on. The Santa Parade kicks off at 11am and finishes at 12.30pm, followed by a festive after-party with performances running until 3pm. Entry costs ¥3,300 for adults, ¥2,200 for high school, university and vocational school students, and ¥1,100 for children aged three up to junior high school. Tickets are now available online.

Gyoza, beer and autumn leaves – that’s what you can expect at Flower Expo Memorial Park Tsurumi Ryokuchi over the long holiday weekend of November 19–24. This scrumptious food festival brings together 13 popular gyoza specialists from across Japan, offering 25 varieties of the country’s iconic dumpling. There will also be frozen gyoza for sale, as well as a special photo booth where you can take flatlay shots of your gyoza feast. The selection of gyoza at the festival is broadly divided into three categories. Directly translated as ‘make-up gyoza’, these camera-ready dumplings are not only beautiful to look at but also feature inventive fillings and flavours such as strawberry milk cheese, fried corn with butter soy, and succulent beef tongue, to name just a few. There are also the so-called ‘synergy gyoza’, with creative new stuffings including green onions with miso, pork in scallop and kombu (seaweed) soup, and lamb with cumin. Purists who prefer classic gyoza need not worry; the festival also offers traditional dumplings, from bite-sized Hakata gyoza and steamed shrimp dumpling to the ever-popular pork and green onion variety.

For parents looking to enjoy winter illuminations with kids in tow, Harvest Hill in Sakai City, Osaka prefecture, makes for a fun family outing. On selected days (mainly Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays) until February 23 2026, the sprawling agricultural park comes alive after dark with around a million lights spread across several themed zones. The illuminations at Wonder Night Hill are designed to highlight the park’s diverse landscape and lush nature. As in previous years, the majestic 15-metre-tall Metasequoia trees will be illuminated, alongside a champagne-gold suspension bridge and hillside displays featuring glowing installations of the park’s beloved farm animals including cows, goats, sheep and capybaras. This year, the light-up coverage has been expanded to include the Village Area, which was closed in previous years. The paid zone, which offers funfair-style rides and attractions such as a merry-go-round, Ferris wheel and rainbow-lit grass slide, is also adorned with new light displays. Other highlights include wooden huts inspired by Christmas markets selling warm food and seasonal goods, a photogenic rainbow-coloured light tunnel, and a glowing blue forest where meteor-like lights cascade from above. Kids will love the Playground of Light, where they can step on a musical light-up piano, walk across sound-making light plates, and enjoy glowing seesaws.

Known as the Temple of Winning Luck, Katsuoji is one of Osaka’s most revered temples, with a history stretching back 1,300 years. It’s also affectionately nicknamed the ‘Temple of the Winning Daruma’, as its sprawling grounds are strewn with countless figures of the lucky Japanese doll. Katsuoji is best visited in autumn, when its lush surroundings turn vibrant shades of red and yellow, making it one of the top autumn leaves destinations in Osaka. Every weekend and public holiday in November, the temple remains open until 8.30pm (last entry 8pm), giving you the chance to enjoy the vibrant autumn colours illuminated after sundown. The temple’s elegant buildings and structures are also lit up, shining just as brightly as the vivid red leaves. At the entrance, light displays transform the expansive pond into a mirror reflecting the surrounding scenery. It truly feels like an enchanted forest. No special ticket is required for the evening visit, just the regular admission (¥500 for adults, ¥400 for elementary and junior high school students, and ¥100 for children aged three and above). Tickets can be purchased at the gate or online in advance. Tip: As the temple is far from the nearest train station, it’s more convenient to book a return bus from Hankyu Minoh Station.

This touring exhibition celebrating the 25th anniversary of the One Piece TV anime is concluding in Osaka, following its run in Tokyo, Kumamoto, Mie and Fukuoka since August last year. With a focus on the Wano Country and Egghead arcs, it retraces the adventures of Luffy and his crew through visual exhibits, voice performances and large-scale installations. Highlights include more than 400 hand-drawn animation frames showcasing the craftsmanship behind one of Japan’s most popular anime series, audio clips of voice actors performing iconic scenes, and exclusive footage of the Onigashima battle shown on a giant screen. The exhibition also features ‘appearances’ by Dr Vegapunk, the new Pacifista model Seraphim S-Snake, and the giant warriors Dorry and Brogy.

Every year, Hankyu Umeda presents some of Osaka’s most enchanting Christmas decorations. The department store’s seven display windows on the first-floor concourse are so oversized they can accommodate truly fantastical and elaborate festive scenes. This year, they will receive a dramatic upgrade under a White Christmas theme. For 2025, the windows are designed to resemble giant snow globes, a beloved icon of Christmas, and there will even be falling ‘snow’. Each window hosts a unique scene, from wintry forests and bustling cityscapes to whimsical tableaux of toys and cakes, brought to life with a clever integration of light and sound. Look closely and you might also spot Santa Claus and his mischievous little elves tucked away in each display. Meanwhile, the nearby Osaka Umeda Twin Towers North is also showcasing a striking illumination of its own, titled ‘Cosmic Feather – Wings of Prayer’, on the first-floor concourse. Composed of around 7,000 feathers and large wings, the flowing installation is further accentuated by light and sound to produce a subtle atmospheric effect.

Arguably Osaka’s most iconic piece of architecture, Umeda Sky Building is celebrating the festive season with one of the city’s tallest Christmas trees. Standing at 25 metres, this isn’t your typical fir; it’s a high-tech creation equipped with LED mapping technology. Covered in 130,000 LEDs, it can change colours and display vivid scenes set to music – think of it as a storytelling musical tree. Located at Wonder Square, the public plaza at the base of Umeda Sky Building, the tree will be unveiled with a lighting ceremony at 5.30pm on Friday November 14 and Saturday November 15. Once lit, it will host three themed shows throughout the festive period. Each runs for around six minutes and is repeated several times every evening between 6pm and 9.30pm. From November 14–21, the lights are choreographed to the song ‘Silent’ by Japanese pop group Sekai no Owari, followed by rock trio Back Number’s ‘Christmas Song’ from November 22–30. The final show, titled ‘The Circus of Light: A Fantasy Circus Sparkling in the Night Sky’, is sure to get you in the mood for Christmas. Running from December 1–25, the tree becomes the canvas for a whimsical, circus-inspired projection featuring clowns and animals every 30 minutes between 5pm and 9.30pm.

One of Kyoto’s most popular temples, Heian Shrine was established in 1895 to commemorate the 1,100th anniversary of Kyoto’s founding as the capital of Japan. At that time, Kyoto was known as Heian, which is where the shrine got its name. This December, as part of its 130th anniversary celebration, the historical shrine is hosting a special light festival after dark. One unique feature of Heian Shrine is its sprawling grounds, home to beautiful landscape gardens and a series of elegant buildings modelled after the former Imperial Palace from the Heian period, albeit on a smaller scale. For this special night opening, you can explore these heritage buildings and traditional gardens in a whole new light, as NAKED, one of Japan’s leading digital art experts, transforms them with mesmerising light art and illuminations. Photo: NAKED, IncOtenmon Gate NAKED Yorumairi: 130th Anniversary of Heian Shrine runs for roughly a month from December 19 to January 18, with a short break over the New Year holidays (December 31 to January 5). During this period, the shrine, which normally closes around sunset, will open from 5.30pm to 9.30pm for special nighttime visits celebrating this milestone. Photo: NAKED, IncThe Daigokuden Hall at Heian Shrine The shrine’s iconic Otenmon Gate and the striking red Daigokuden Hall – both designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan – will be illuminated in vibrant colours. This event also marks the reopening of Daigokuden (from Tuesday December 23),

Time flies, and somehow we’ve reached the end of 2025 in the blink of an eye. As we prepare to wrap up the year, it’s time to start planning our 2026 New Year’s Eve celebrations. If you’re looking for an outdoor soirée with all the bells and whistles, check out the Countdown Festival 2025–2026 at Kobe Illuminage, located less than 90 minutes away from central Osaka. Photo: Kobe Illuminage For the uninitiated, Kobe Illuminage is one of Japan’s largest annual light festivals, running this year from October 24 to February 1. To mark its 15th anniversary, the illumination’s 'Garden Dream' theme has transformed the sprawling venue into a sparkling wonderland featuring a luxury cruise ship, a heart-shaped love tunnel, an ice palace and more, all sculpted entirely from lights. Photo: Kobe Illuminage For one night only on Wednesday December 31, Kobe Illuminage will host a massive countdown party across its vast illuminated grounds. Surrounded by brilliant displays in every direction, it’s a fantastical way to ring in the New Year. The evening’s programme includes food trucks, live concerts, stage performances and a magical bubble show. As midnight approaches, DJs will be all hands on deck, spinning a rousing mix of EDM, hip-hop, disco, K-pop, J-pop and more. The music will be synchronised with lighting effects to create a fully immersive atmosphere that builds the excitement as the night progresses. Photo: Kobe Illuminage Just before the clock strikes twelve, you’ll be treated

The year-end holiday season is one of the best times to be in Osaka. As the city launches into full festive mode, dazzling illuminations light up streets and parks, transforming Osaka into a mesmerising winter wonderland. And if you’re looking to immerse yourself further in the holiday spirit, the annual Christmas Market at Tenshiba offers an enticing array of German comfort foods and seasonal ornaments. As one of Osaka’s top theme parks, Universal Studios Japan is also joining in the celebrations with a host of festive activities. From November 19 to January 4, the park’s Universal Christmas Joy event features a seasonal programme packed with heartwarming performances, festive food and drinks, and sparkling light displays. The park’s beloved characters are also dressing up in their Christmas best, and there are plenty of ways for you to join in the fun. Here’s what to expect at Universal Studios Japan this Christmas season. Photo: Universal Studios Japan Universal Christmas Food Festival This year marks the first-ever Universal Christmas Food Festival, where you’ll find Christmassy menus throughout the park. From warming winter snacks to character treats themed on Snoopy, Hello Kitty and Sesame Street, there’s plenty to enjoy. You can grab a quick bite from the food carts as you stroll through the New York Area, or take a seat for a more relaxed meal at one of the park’s restaurants such as Studio Stars or Parkside Grill. Photo: Universal Studios Japan Light Up the Night

Overtourism has become a major concern in Kyoto, a city renowned for its historical and cultural treasures. In recent years, local councils and city authorities have implemented various measures to manage crowding and address disruptive tourist behaviours. Signs were installed in Gion to prevent visitors from trespassing on private roads and properties. More recently, Kyoto introduced a new circular sightseeing bus route within the city centre and announced a significant increase in accommodation tax, which is set to rise by up to 900 percent in March next year. Just this week, the municipal government was forced to take drastic action in the iconic Arashiyama bamboo forest. In response to persistent vandalism, authorities have decided to cut down parts of the beloved bamboo grove. According to the Mainichi, approximately 20 bamboo plants along a 30-metre stretch of the natural attraction were felled in an attempt to widen the space and prevent people from reaching the plants to carve graffiti on them. Sadly, some of the bamboo plants that were removed had already sustained severe damage from graffiti. A recent official survey revealed that as many as 350 bamboo plants in this popular and historically significant site may have been defaced. The damage not only marred the beauty of the bamboo grove but also posed a serious health threat to the revered plants. More alarmingly, additional cuts may be carried out to protect the site. Local authorities are currently reviewing the

Kyoto is at its most captivating in autumn, when the temple gardens burst into vibrant colours. As evening falls, the illuminated momiji maple trees take on an ethereal red glow. And when set against the timeless silhouette of the heritage temple buildings, the autumn leaves illuminations make for an unforgettable scene. Among all the temples in Kyoto, one stands out for its distinctive autumn view. The lacquered table in its second-floor room is polished so immaculately that it mirrors the brilliant foliage outside the windows. So perfectly, in fact, that this reflection has become a signature image of Kyoto in autumn. This is Ruriko-in Temple, and here’s how you can see this iconic sight for yourself. About Ruriko-in Ruriko-in wasn’t always a temple. Located at the base of Mt Hiei in the mountainous Yase area of Kyoto, it was originally the villa of a prominent noble back in the Meiji period (1868–1912). The property is an exemplary piece of residential architecture from the time, and its famous garden was a later addition during the 1930s by a renowned landscape designer.  With its remote location and limited opening – Ruriko-in only welcomes visitors for brief periods in spring and autumn – the temple has become a coveted Kyoto gem, particularly at this time of year. Photo: Seaonweb/DreamstimeRuriko-in's Zen garden in autumn When is Ruriko-in open for autumn? For autumn 2025, Ruriko-in is open from October 1 to December 14, between 10am and 5pm, with the last entry at 4

Every autumn, social media lights up with videos of a train gliding through a glowing tunnel of fiery red momiji (Japanese maple) trees. The lights inside the carriages are dimmed, making the illuminated foliage outside look even more magical. This enchanting journey takes place on the Eizan Railway in Kyoto, and here’s how you can experience it for yourself. Photo: Eizan Railway Where and what is the Momiji Tunnel The Maple Tunnel (or Momiji Tunnel) is a 250-metre stretch between Ichihara and Ninose stations on the railway’s Kurama Line. Hundreds of momiji trees flank the tracks, creating a vibrant red corridor come autumn. It’s easily one of Kyoto’s most breathtaking sights around this time of year. During the annual illumination period, the trees light up nightly from sunset until 9pm. Additionally, Ninose and Kibuneguchi stations along the route will also feature their own illuminations. Photo: Eizan RailwayThe Momoji Tunnel as of November 13 2025 When to go From November 7 until December 12, Eizan Railway’s special autumn timetable kicks in with additional services to accommodate the busy autumn leaves season. However, only the trains running between November 7 and November 30 will slow down as they pass through the Momiji Tunnel, allowing you to linger and take in the glowing scenery a little longer. The interior lights are also dimmed during this part of the journey, making the illuminated foliage appear even more striking. From December 1 onwards, there will still

With trees turning vibrant shades of yellow, red and orange, autumn is one of the most beautiful times to visit Japan. Each year around this time, the Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC) releases its highly anticipated autumn leaves forecast to help us plan our seasonal sightseeing. Following Japan’s hottest summer on record, forecasters are predicting an unusually short autumn, followed by a sudden plunge into winter temperatures. As a result of these climate shifts, JMC expects the autumn foliage to arrive later than usual. So when can you expect to see the gorgeous red momiji and golden ginkgo leaves in Osaka, Kyoto and other destinations across the Kansai region? JMC’s latest official forecast, published on November 4, is the final autumn foliage update of 2025 — and here’s what it reveals. Photo: Japan Meteorological Corporation Yellow ginkgo leaves In the Kansai region, Kobe is expected to see yellow ginkgo leaves first, around November 16, three days later than usual. In Osaka, the ginkgo trees are forecast to turn yellow around November 26, while in Kyoto, colour is expected around November 30 – that’s four and six days later than average, respectively. Nara’s golden hues are forecast to arrive seven days late on November 25. Meanwhile, Wakayama is set to see yellow ginkgo leaves about six days behind the norm, around November 29. Photo: Japan Meteorological Corporation Red momiji leaves The Japanese maple, or momiji, is expected to experience a bigger delay, w

Shinkansen is one of the most convenient and comfortable ways to travel across Japan – and it’s even more memorable when you catch one of its special themed trains. Among the most popular is the Hello Kitty Shinkansen, which runs along the Sanyo Shinkansen line connecting Shin-Osaka and Hakata in Fukuoka, Kyushu. The route serves western Japan’s major destinations including Shin-Kobe, Himeji, Okayama and Hiroshima. Launched in June 2018, this charming bullet train is beloved for its cute design bursting with colours, motifs and characters inspired by the global Japanese icon. Its eye-catching pink exterior features Hello Kitty’s signature bow and ribbon, and the interior is even more adorable. Photo: ©1976, 2020 Sanrio, Co. Ltd, Approval No. L613133Car 1 of the Hello Kitty Shinkansen Car 1, known as ‘Hello! Plaza’, serves as a display area and gift shop offering exclusive Hello Kitty merchandise. Car 2, the ‘Kawaii! Room’, is fully decked out in Hello Kitty designs, from the walls and ceiling to the seats. There’s even a dedicated photo spot where you can take pictures with a one-of-a-kind Hello Kitty train conductor. Photo: ©1976, 2020 Sanrio, Co. Ltd, Approval No. L613133Car 2 of the Hello Kitty Shinkansen Sadly, after eight years of service, the Hello Kitty Shinkansen will cease operations in spring next year. To celebrate its farewell, train operator JR West will be hosting a series of campaigns leading up to its final run. You can expect special events inside Car 1 f

In Japan, shopping and coffee often go hand in hand, with many brands incorporating cafes within their stores. Zara is joining this trend. But what makes it truly exciting is that this is the first Zacaffè in the country, located not in Tokyo but in Osaka’s bustling Shinsaibashi shopping district. Photo: Zara As part of its 50th anniversary, Zara has unveiled a sprawling four-storey concept store in the Shinsaibashi Zero Gate building. The new space reflects the fast-fashion giant’s latest global design concept while giving it a distinctively Japanese touch through traditional craftsmanship. The store blends slick metal and steel finishes with natural wood fixtures and classic Japanese elements – tatami mats, earthen walls and noren curtains – to create a calm, inviting atmosphere. Photo: Zara The in-store Zacaffè exudes a warm, serene ambiance. Here, the intricate counter is crafted from Nara wood tiles while the floor is covered with natural pebbles. Even the stools and custom coffee saucers draw inspiration from the traditional mokko-style four-petal shape, imbuing the cafe with a subtle yet sophisticated Japanese charm. Photo: Zara On the menu, coffee starts from ¥600 and there are also snacks and sweets including almond cake, flan, pork empanada and sandwiches. Photo: Zara On the retail side, the store features dedicated zones for each of Zara’s lines and collections. The first-floor Shoes & Bags area is a standout. Moreover, to make shopping effortless and stress-

If you’re tired of temple-hopping for autumn foliage in Kyoto, here’s a much more enjoyable autumn leaves experience. Step aboard the Sagano Romantic Train, a breathtaking sightseeing ride through one of Kyoto’s most picturesque river valleys. Running between Arashiyama and Kameoka, this vintage-style trolley train offers a slow, scenic ride through the verdant Hozugawa River Valley. Covering just seven kilometres in about 25 minutes, this train is all about the journey, as it winds through forests ablaze with some of Kyoto’s most vibrant autumn colors. Since all seats are reserved, there’s no crowd – just you sitting back and soaking in the scenery. Photo: Cowardlion/Dreamstime For an even more magical trip, plan your ride between October 25 and December 29, when the landscape along the route is all lit up for the annual Fantasy Train of Light event. Around 1,000 lights illuminate the trees, slopes and riverbanks, transforming the already stunning scenery into a surreal dreamscape. This is that train – the one you’ve probably seen in viral videos on TikTok and Instagram, gliding through glowing autumn leaves. Photo: JR West To catch the light-up, hop on any train after 4.30pm from Torokko Saga or Torokko Arashiyama station. Once you arrive at the terminal Torokko Kameoka Station, you can ride the same train back or take a short walk to Umahori Station for a direct connection back to Kyoto Station. Photo: JR West There will be extra evening trains during peak foliage se

There were two 7-Eleven stores at the Osaka Expo, featuring slightly different branding and product offerings than your usual 7-Eleven. The freshly cooked meals such as pizzas were a hit – frankly, one of my favourite things to eat at the Expo – as well as the Uji Matcha Smoothie. In fact, the latter, which was available only at the Expo, became so popular that it sold more than 1,000 cups per day. If you missed out on that, don’t worry. 7-Eleven is now releasing the viral Osaka Expo-exclusive Uji Matcha Smoothie at selected stores across Japan starting Friday October 24. Photo: 7-Eleven The bright green, full-bodied smoothie doesn’t just use any premium Uji matcha, but the tea from long-established Kyoto-based tea wholesaler Kitagawa Hanbee Shoten, which has a 164-year legacy. The company has won the top award at Japan’s National Tea Competition 11 times. Its store, Gion Kitagawa Hanbee, is a highly rated tea café in Kyoto. So yes, this is some top-shelf matcha. Photo: 7-Eleven The 7-Eleven Uji Matcha Smoothie is priced at ¥400. Just note that this is a limited-time release, so hurry to a 7-Eleven near you. And by the way, this isn’t the only thing making a comeback from the now-ended Osaka Expo. A huge reclining Myaku-Myaku statue is now on display at Nakanoshima in the city centre until the end of the year. More from Time Out Osaka Osaka is getting three fireworks festivals this autumn and tickets are out now Here are all the Michelin Key hotels in Osaka for 2025 Kyot

After 184 days, Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan finally concluded its six-month run on October 13. The event was a success, attracting a total of 25.58 million visitors. Its weirdly adorable mascot, the shape-shifting Myaku-Myaku with its many goggly eyes, proved so popular that sales of its merchandise contributed considerably to Osaka Expo’s revenue. Whether you miss Myaku-Myaku or regret not having seen it in person at the Expo, you’ll be glad to know there’s now one more chance to see it ‘in the flesh’. A massive reclining Myaku-Myaku statue, measuring two metres tall and 3.3 metres long, has returned to its original spot in front of the stately Osaka City Hall on Nakanoshima Island in the city centre. Photo: Lim Chee WahMyaku-Myaku at Osaka City Hall, as seen in July this year This statue first appeared on the same site in December 2023 as part of the lead-up to the Osaka Expo and remained there until the end of July this year, before being moved to the Expo site. Now it’s back, cheerfully greeting passers-by in front of City Hall, and will stay there until December 26. Oh, in case you haven’t heard, official Osaka Expo merchandise, including items featuring Myaku-Myaku, will continue to be available until March next year. While stocks last, of course. More from Time Out Osaka Osaka is getting three fireworks festivals this autumn and tickets are out now Here are all the Michelin Key hotels in Osaka for 2025 Kyoto has a new sightseeing bus serving key attractions in th