Shota Nagao

June brings with it the chance to get out in the fields and watch nature at play. Firefly (or hotaru in Japanese) season is upon us, and while it's true that Tokyo is rather limited in the field department these days, there are still some great spots to see these homegrown fireworks. Check out our top picks of hotaru-watching events in and around Tokyo. RECOMMENDED: 10 best summer destinations in Japan

As the weather warms up, bars, hotels and even department stores in Tokyo are opening their roofs and terraces to the public – and with this, the beer garden season officially begins. As we say every year, it just wouldn't be summer without an evening spent idly sipping frosty pints or cool cocktails out in the open air.  But how do you, the discerning drinker, find the most attractive deals among the myriad of beer events and festivals out there? Fret not; we’ve done the leg work for you, so go ahead and choose from our list below. Cheers! RECOMMENDED: Best rooftop bars and restaurants in Tokyo

Fireworks are an essential part of the summer festivities in Tokyo. All across the city, you can enjoy spectacular displays that light up Tokyo's warm summer nights, and that's not counting the other fireworks happening in nearby prefectures. In 2025, you can look forward to a particularly vibrant summer, as many of Tokyo's top fireworks festivals are confirmed to take place again this year. This includes the highly anticipated Sumida River Fireworks Festival (July 26) and the sensational Edogawa Fireworks Festival (August 2). As mentioned, there are more equally impressive fireworks just outside Tokyo in Chiba, Shizuoka and Yamanashi. So dust off your yukata, arrive early to secure the best viewing spot, and enjoy the colourful fireworks while snacking on some tasty festival grub. RECOMMENDED: Best observation decks in Tokyo for incredible views of the city skyline

Tokyo offers an endless array of dining options, from upscale sushi restaurants to casual eateries serving affordable teishoku set meals. But if you wake up craving a taste of home – specifically, a hearty bite of American beef – your options become a bit more limited. To help you find your way to familiar flavours in the big city, here we’re spotlighting three standout restaurants in Tokyo where US beef takes centre stage. From East Coast-style hoagies and Southern barbecue to a luxurious porterhouse steak dinner, these are the places to visit when you're hungry for something you know and love.

What Tokyo lacks in space, it makes up for with ingenious high-rise solutions. So the next time you're looking to retreat from the crowds, look up – you might just find a secret garden tucked away on the roof of a shopping mall. Relax and unwind on a green patch or under a shade while taking in a bird's eye view of the cityscape. These rooftop gardens are free to enter, making them a worthwhile alternative to the city's observation decks if you're on a budget. RECOMMENDED: Prefer a view with a drink instead? Head to these rooftop bars in Tokyo

With its iconic wavy facade and giant sphere suspended seemingly in mid-air, the Netherlands pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai stands out as an architectural marvel even among the many eye-catching international pavilions at the site. Its huge sphere, named the ‘man-made sun’, communicates the idea of a new dawn on common ground and symbolises inspiration for the future.  Inside, the pavilion features immersive displays themed on water and renewable energy utilisation, as well as an event space, a café, a pop-up shop and more. Every corner is designed to allow visitors to experience Dutch culture and ideals from various angles. Here are some of the things you can expect to see and do at the Netherlands pavilion. READ MORE: Expo 2025 preview: Netherlands

Fukuoka’s buzziest entertainment district is set to welcome a new landmark this April. Located right in the heart of Tenjin, state-of-the-art multiuse complex One Fukuoka Bldg. is filled with shops, restaurants, bars, offices and, on the 18th and 19th floors, a lifestyle hotel with a bar and lounge where you can admire a panoramic view of Hakata Bay.  When you feel the need to fuel up, go down: the first basement floor is all about food. Here you’ll find iiTo Tenjin, the largest restaurant hall in the Tenjin area with its eight eateries and 450 seats. You can enjoy a wide variety of cuisines on the premises, and the hall’s lighting and background music change throughout the day, putting a fresh twist on each visit. On the same floor is also Tenjin Norengai, an alleyway-style collection of seven restaurants ranging from long-established local favourites to refined dining spots with national pedigree. In this guide you’ll find some of our favourite things to eat and drink at iiTo Tenjin and Tenjin Norengai.

With Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai finally open for visitors at Osaka’s Yumeshima Island, it’s about time we took a closer look at one of the biggest attractions at the Expo – namely the national pavilions, presented by a selection of the more than 150 countries and regions participating in the mega-event.  Following our recent sneak peek guide to the eight ‘signature pavilions’ curated by leading Japanese figures, we’re now putting the spotlight on the most exciting of the freshly unveiled national pavilions. The pavilions featured below were all handpicked by Time Out editors who visited the locations in person. Walking around the Expo 2025 site is a visual treat in itself, as the one-of-a-kind landscape at Yumeshima is dotted with architecturally distinctive structures, each representing the culture and identity of a nation or region. Once inside, you get to explore immersive exhibits showcasing the best of each country. Read on for our top picks and learn why these pavilions stand out at Expo 2025.  RECOMMENDED: Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan News Hub

With Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai now open for visitors, it’s about time we took a close look at some of the most exciting structures and exhibitions you can experience on the artificial island of Yumeshima until October 13.  The vast Expo site is home to more than 180 pavilions created by a wide range of actors – from countries and international organisations to private companies. In this crowded field, some of the biggest standouts are the eight ‘Signature Pavilions’ located within the Grand Ring, the massive wooden structure encircling the site. These ambitious projects are spearheaded by leading Japanese figures representing diverse fields – from screenwriters to biologists. Guided by the Expo’s overarching theme of ‘Designing future society for our lives,’ each of the eight producers has infused their pavilion with a unique perspective. What these thought-provoking installations have in common is that they are all designed to inspire introspection and spark new ways of thinking about the future. Here are the deets on some of the most interesting signature pavilions at Expo 2025. RECOMMENDED: 10 unmissable things to do at Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai

2025 is shaping up to be Osaka’s year. The highly anticipated World Expo is returning to the city after 55 years, promising a jam-packed show of the latest in innovative technologies, novel ideas from around the world and sustainable solutions for a hopeful future.  Taking place on Yumeshima, an artificial island just off the coast in Osaka Bay, the Expo is where you can encounter anything from the latest in next-generation air mobility (aka flying cars) to a tranquil forest intended to provoke introspective thinking. With dozens of participating country and corporate pavilions welcoming visitors throughout the site, expect a trip to the Expo to be a whole-day affair. Expo 2025 began on April 13 and will continue until October 13. The overarching theme is ‘Designing future society for our lives’ – a mission statement intended to make us think about how we want to live our lives while maximising our potential. But it’s not all big ideas and futuristic technology: there is plenty of hands-on fun to be had at the Expo too. Here are ten exhibitions, events and performances you can look forward to exploring and experiencing at this momentous event. RECOMMENDED: How to purchase tickets for Expo 2025

What a wonderful time to be in Tokyo! After a recent spell of warm weather, Tokyo's cherry blossoms are now fully open with the Japan Meteorological Agency announcing full bloom on Sunday March 30. Although the cherry blossoms are now past their peak, many trees still retain a good number of flowers and continue to offer beautiful views. However, with petals falling more each day, they’re not expected to last much longer — so now is the time to visit if you haven’t already. To keep you up to date on how the blossoms are doing, we've done the legwork, visited different sakura spots in Tokyo, so you can check up on the blooming cycle before heading out. RECOMMENDED: Make this your best sakura season yet with our ultimate guide to cherry blossoms in Tokyo

タイムアウト大阪 > Things to Do >2025年大阪・関西万博で見逃せない10のこと 2025年は大阪の年になりそうだ。待望の万博が55年ぶりに大阪に帰ってくる。革新的な最新技術、世界中の斬新なアイデア、そして希望あふれる未来に向けた持続可能なソリューションがぎっしりと詰まった博覧会が始まるのだ。 大阪湾の沖合に浮かぶ人工島「夢洲（ゆめしま）」で開催される「2025年日本国際博覧会」（以下、大阪・関西万博）では、次世代航空モビリティから、内省的な思考を促す静けさの森まで、さまざまな出合いが待っている。会場内の至る所に数十の国や企業のパビリオンがあり、来場者を歓迎する。大阪・関西万博への旅は、一日がかりのものになることを覚悟しよう。 大阪・関西万博は、2025年4月13日（日）から10月13日（月）まで開催される。その包括的なテーマは「いのち輝く未来社会のデザイン」。一人一人が、それぞれの可能性を最大限に発揮しながら自らの望む生き方を考えるきっかけとなることを指針としている。 しかし、大それたアイデアや未来的なテクノロジーが提示されるだけではなく、実際に体験できる楽しみもたくさんある。ここでは、タイムアウト東京英語版編集部がこの記念すべき大阪・関西万博で注目したい10の展示やイベント、パフォーマンスを紹介する。 原文はこちらから。 関連記事『大阪・関西万博ガイド』

If you’re craving familiar and comforting flavours after endlessly eating Japanese food, you’ll find them right here. Bringing a slice of Harlem to Kichijoji, The Dap’s Famous Hood Joint conjures up authentic New York-style sandwiches. Owner Yoshikazu Miyamoto honed his skills in East Harlem by working at Hajji’s Deli and offers a menu featuring the standout Authentic Chopped Cheese Sandwich (¥1,150) – a hearty mix of grilled ground beef, cheddar cheese, onions and fresh veggies on toasted bread. Other favourites include the monstrous Kichijoji Fat Boy Sandwich (¥2,800), the Philly Wheelie Cheese Steak (¥1,350) and the B-Side Chicken Over Rice (¥1,100). As for drinks, you can’t go wrong with their cool and creamy frozen piña coladas, which come in alcoholic and non-alcoholic varieties (from ¥600).  The shop’s standout feature is its brick staircase seating, which leads seamlessly up to the barbershop next door. Miyamoto took inspiration from the red bleachers in Times Square, aiming to recreate that casual, communal vibe. Because the restaurant floor sits level with the street, dining here almost feels like eating outside. The brown brick steps evoke the stoops of New York brownstones, adding to the distinctly urban aesthetic. And with the Chuo Line cutting diagonally across Inokashira Street just out front, Miyamoto says the view reminds him of a typical NYC street scene. In that scenario, is Inokashira Park Kichijoji’s version of Central Park?

It’s getting warmer, which means outdoor music festival season is in full swing. Ebisu’s Yebisu Garden Place is hosting its second annual outdoor jazz festival for three consecutive days this May, featuring a host of live performances by renowned artists from Japan and abroad.   While many of the scheduled performances are paid, expect to see free shows by domestic artists such as Bossa Nova specialist Lisa Ono and jazz pianist Tadataka Unno, bassist and singer Tendre, as well as the Grace Aimi, Yancy & Zack Auslander trio. Highlights from the list of paid performances include R&B artists Kona Rose with David Bryant, alternative rock band Luby Spark, and experimental soul band Wonk at the Blue Note Place, managed by legendary jazz club Blue Note. Coinciding with the 130th anniversary of the start of diplomatic relations between Japan and Brazil, the event will also feature a traditional pagode samba party hosted by celebrated former soccer player Ruy Ramos and his daughter Fabiana. The father-daughter duo will be performing on stage as a percussionist and singer, respectively. Standing tickets (¥3,900) are now available to purchase online via Eplus. Check the event timetable for more details.

Regarded as one of the greatest photographers of the 20th century, Robert Capa’s impactful photographs capture the essence of humanity when it is the most unseen – amidst the sufferings of war. Capa was present, eighty years ago, in the combat zones of World War II, risking his life to capture photographs that serve as tangible and reliable records of the conflicts. His work covers the political turmoil of Europe in the 1930s, the Spanish Civil War, the bombing of China by Japanese forces, the Allied counter-offensive against Germany in North Africa, the Normandy landings and more.  This exhibition will showcase 140 of Capa’s most compelling war-themed prints, highlighting the profound human tenderness of soldiers and civilians enduring the hardships of conflict. The exhibition is closed on Mondays (except May 5) as well as May 7.

Explore the concept of ‘preciousness’ at Fujifilm’s pop-up store and exhibition, ‘A Camera Shop Philosophizing Preciousness.’ This unique event invites visitors to reflect on what the word means through various photographs and writings – and the experience of using a Fujifilm X-series camera. Open until March 30, the shop carries an impressive display of Fujifilm’s current line-up of cameras, which are now immensely popular due to TikTok, as well as a special booth to appreciate the craftsmanship of Fujifilm cameras through sound and touch. On your way out, don’t miss the self-portrait booth, where you can take home a printed photo taken with a Fujifilm camera. You’ll also receive a photo album to store your precious memories in.

Opened in 2024 within the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo theatre, this museum offers a rare glimpse into the world of geiko (geisha of Kyoto) and maiko (apprentice geiko). On display are exquisite kimono, obi sashes, ornate kanzashi hairpins, makeup tools, and traditional footwear known as okobo, all once used by performers at the theatre. Through this extensive collection of artefacts and informative panels, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the performers’ lives and traditions while appreciating the craftsmanship behind each item. One of the museum’s greatest charms is in how it makes the traditionally exclusive and somewhat mysterious world of Kyoto’s entertainment districts more accessible.  Visitors also have the opportunity to see live geiko and maiko up close. Five times a day, a Kyoto-style kyomai dance performance is held for an audience of up to 60 people per session (¥1,600 per person). Additionally, twice a day, a limited number of visitors (20 groups per session) can participate in a paid commemorative photo shoot (¥2,000). Participants receive an instant film photograph along with a personalised senshafuda name slip featuring the geiko’s name – a truly special Kyoto souvenir.

This wagyu-focused restaurant opened in 2022 and is the brainchild of Takafumi Kayamori, who trained as a yakiniku chef for 20 years. There's a warm, dimly-lit dining room with eight counter seats from which diners can watch the chef at work, although the star of the show is the wagyu kappo cuisine, which is carefully selected by the owner and served in a variety of ways that go far beyond your bog-standard yakiniku. This restaurant only has one thing on the menu: an 'omakase course', a chef-curated meal which features unique dishes made with seasonal ingredients which enhance the magnificent wagyu beef. Everything is freshly prepared and, if you're in luck, you'll be treated to Kayamori's hand-rolled beef sushi or homemade soba noodles, both of which highlight the chef's boundless creativity.

Immerse yourself in a captivating world of art at a soon-to-be-demolished apartment building. Yeah, you heard that right: over two weeks, a 10-storey condo complex slated to be torn down in February is being given a new life (albeit briefly) as an immersive art gallery. Taking over the building with 50 apartments, this unique exhibition showcases a diverse collection of works by emerging and established artists such as Emi Kusano, Alligator Jesus, Espo, Oto, Kenji Yanobe, the Mallary Archive and more. Moreover, the building’s hallways and common areas are given a makeover by Amanda Hagy, an award-winning Hollywood scenic artist who has produced background art for movies such as Joker, West Side Story and John Wick Chapter 3. Don’t forget to check out all of the floors, as each one is decorated with different themes, ranging from ‘Dekotora’ to Cyberpunk. Be sure to purchase a ticket in advance online, as they won’t be selling them on-site.

Experience traditional Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock prints in motion at Warehouse Terrada this winter, as digital creative company Hitohata returns to Tokyo with a dazzling exhibition of works by many of Japan’s most prized artists, including Katsushika Hokusai and Utagawa Hiroshige. The exhibition is set to open on December 21 and will go on until March 31. Expect to see vibrant artworks come to life with surging waves, falling sakura petals and moving flowers and trees. In addition to the digital exhibits, the museum will display a selection of famous ukiyo-e from the Edo period (1603–1867), making for a perfect chance to learn more about the art form’s history and culture. Tickets are currently on sale online, with early-bird ticket discounts available from kkday, eplus and Lawson Ticket until Dec 20. 

With one of the best vistas of Tokyo cityscape, Tokyo Skytree is a popular spot for enjoying aerial views of our beloved city. For a limited time this winter, the lower observation deck is hosting exclusive geisha and sumo shows that are only available to 20 guests per session.  There are two separate plans: geisha dance at night and sumo wrestling at the break of dawn. On November 26 and December 15, you can experience the enchanting world of geisha with the Night Plan. From 10pm to 12.30am, the observation deck will come alive with the mesmerising sounds of traditional shamisen music and the graceful dance of elegant geisha. There will be refreshments, and you will have a front-row view of the artistry, with a panorama of the glittering skyline in the background. The plan also includes an interpreter to guide you through the performance and share insights on geisha culture. Furthermore, you’ll also get to create your own Edo Kiriko, a traditional Tokyo glass craft. Early-risers on the other hand are in for a treat on November 27 and December 16. The action-packed Morning Plan starts at 5.15am (5.30am on Dec 16), where you can witness the raw power and ancient ritual of sumo wrestling. Imagine the thrill of watching these impressive athletes face off against the backdrop of the rising sun, as the city slowly awakens from slumber. The morning sumo plan comes with a breakfast bento box featuring dishes made with fresh ingredients sourced locally in Tokyo. Prices start at ¥100,

Sagamiko Resort Mori Mori has gone all out for its winter illuminations, featuring over six million dazzling LEDs. This year, there's an entire area dedicated to Japan's beloved laid-back bear, Rilakkuma, along with his sidekick Korilakkuma and other San-X friends like Sumikkogurashi. You can hop on the park’s Rainbow Chairlift and sail over colourful stripes before reaching the top of a hill, where you'll find a series of illumination art walls showcasing Rilakkuma and his friends. Walk further in to discover a massive Tarepanda inflatable and a bear-shaped igloo with Sumikkogurashi characters glowing in colourful lights. Be sure to catch the spectacular illumination show at the San-X character stage, where Korilakkuma, Afro-dog and Ebifurai No Shippo perform live with synchronised laser lights for four minutes each. Nearby, a massive Rilakkuma is perched a set of swings, providing the perfect setup for a special photo. While you’re there, indulge in Rilakkuma and Sumikkogurashi-themed meals and snacks. Enjoy a hearty Sumikkogurashi Bon Pasta or the Meat Doria Plate with San-X characters. Prefer something sweet? Then check out the colorful popcorn sundae or the Rilakkuma pudding in a cup.

British Olympic gold medallist and four-time world champion diver Tom Daley is showcasing his creative side in his first solo exhibition of knitwear at Parco Museum Tokyo. Aside from winning a gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Games, Daley also garnered worldwide adoration for his artistic skills after being photographed knitting in between competitions at the Tokyo Aquatics Centre. The exhibition presents around 20 of Daley’s favourite knitted works as well as knitting tutorial videos by Daley himself. On the opening day of the exhibition, Daley will be present at the gallery to host a workshop (applications closed). Later, a charity auction of Tom’s knitwear will take place online from November 8 to November 25. Visitors will be gifted a postcard featuring knitting instructions for ‘Tom’s Friendship Bracelet’ (while supplies last).

What Museum’s latest exhibit, Synesthesia, is an interactive one. This engaging showcase is the work of a Japanese artist who uses air, water and light to craft mesmerising sculptures that blur the lines between perception and reality.  With a background in sociology and art education, Akihito Okunaka is inspired by late philosopher Bruno Latour to explore the connections between nature and society through our five senses. Here you get to touch, enter and lie down in a balloon-like installation and feel connected with your surroundings. The 12-metre in diameter balloon sculpture is weighed down by a water 'bed' and bathed in different light frequencies. This multi-sensorial work promises a visual and tactile experience that blurs the lines between sight and touch. Imagine light refracting through multiple layers of translucent plastic film, creating a kaleidoscope of colours that dance across the surface, all while being swayed gently by the water bed. This exhibition is closed on Mondays (except October 14, November 4, January 13, February 3 and 24) and New Year holidays.

Summer is well underway as we enter Tokyo's unusually late rainy season. While there are a host of fireworks festivals confirmed happening in Tokyo proper this year, you should also check out these three events in nearby Saitama, especially if you’re looking for a quintessential Japanese summer experience but minus the crowd. Photo: genki/PixtaPhoto of Fireworks at Owada Park Saitama City Fireworks at Owada Park The first of the three Saitama city-run fireworks festivals will be held at Owada Park on Sunday July 27 at 7.30pm. Roughly an hour away from Shinjuku Station, the spacious venue offers uninterrupted views of the fireworks regardless of where you are in the park. However, paid seating with the best views is available at the adjacent baseball stadium and pool parking lot. Tickets for these go on sale July 2. Photo: terkey/PixtaStock photo of fireworks Saitama City Fireworks at Omagi Park The second venue, located just seven minutes on foot from the nearby Higashi-Urawa Station (and under 50 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station), Omagi Park will host a fireworks display on Saturday August 9 at 7.30pm. Details of this year's event are yet to be announced. However, to give you an idea of what to expect, last year saw over 5,000 shells of fireworks being launched over one hour. Photo: Tachibana Shashinkan/PixtaStock photo of starmines Saitama City Fireworks at Iwatsuki Culture Park Expect gigantic starmines and other large fireworks at Iwatsuki Culture Park, set to

Known for their obsessively curated playlists and impeccably tuned sound systems, listening bars are a Tokyo institution. The city now has yet another of these audio temples, but not in a form you’d expect. Since January 2025, a mobile listening bar – composed of a classic British Mini and a towed ‘listening room’ campervan – has been popping up across some of the city’s trendier neighbourhoods. Often spotted near Ebisu, Sakurashinmachi and Jinbocho stations, the moving sound sanctuary has already delighted many a Tokyo audiophile and night owl. Photo: Keisuke Tanigawa The mobile listening bar wasn’t initially conceived as one at all. The twin brains behind the project, automotive guru Jinbo from Drivethru Magazine and Kiyota of the co-working space Village out in Hinohara, were developing a ‘mobile sustainable station’ – a campervan equipped with solar panels and batteries – at Village when they discovered their ride’s exceptional acoustic properties.  Photo: Keisuke Tanigawa Enter sound engineer Komatsu of Komatsu Sound Lab, who transformed the van into an audiophile's dream, complete with vacuum tube amplifiers and pristine speakers. Better yet, the system is powered completely by electricity generated with solar panels. Photo: Keisuke Tanigawaミニバーミドリのシオリ The final piece of the puzzle came through a partnership with Shiori, the creative force behind minibar Midori, the bar component of the listening bar experience. On offer are quirky drinks like the Engine, an Itali

Shopping and dining in Tokyo can sometimes be daunting without a strong grasp of Japanese, especially when it comes to communicating with store staff. But help may be on the way: At Harajuku’s newest landmark, Tokyu Plaza Harajuku ‘Harakado’, a new pilot project titled ‘Subtitles for the World’ is happening now. The initiative, realised in partnership with Japanese automotive tech company Aisin, is a ‘social experiment’ exploring the use of cutting-edge real-time captioning technology and is aimed at bringing about a more inclusive society. Running until May 18, the trial features Aisin’s YYSystem transcription app and translucent LCD display tech, which help break down communication barriers for customers with hearing impairments and international visitors alike. The transparent displays, equipped with a microphone and keyboard, visualise speech in real-time on a holographic screen. Impressively, the futuristic devices can also translate speech into over 30 languages. This system, along with tablet versions, has been implemented across 21 establishments in Harakado, including cafés, izakaya, beauty salons and retail shops. To take part in the pilot project, be sure to visit the third-floor ‘subtitled information counter’ located next to Baby the Coffee Brew Club. There you’ll receive a neck strap indicating your specific needs, with tags such as ‘I have difficulty hearing’ or ‘I need English subtitles’. After trying out the transcription services at various stores, don’t for

If you’ve already seen Tokyo’s most famous tourist attractions, you’ll want to set your sights on some of the more remote locations in and around the capital. One such spot is the otherworldly Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel in Kasukabe, Saitama prefecture.  Affectionately known as the Disaster Prevention Underground Temple, the tunnel is a whopping 50 metres underground and is used to prevent flooding in the Greater Tokyo area during a major natural disaster such as a tsunami or typhoon. When not in use, the massive tunnel is open to the public for viewing. Its towering architecture has made it a popular spot for visitors – it has even been used as a filming location for music videos and other projects. Photo: Manuelascanio/Dreamstime The best way to explore the Disaster Prevention Underground Temple is by joining a guided tour, such as the Underground Temple Course, which costs just ¥1,000 per person and takes about 55 minutes. On the tour, you can learn about the facility and explore at your own leisure.  Longer tours are available, too, including the Pit Experience Course (¥3,000 for 110 minutes) for a visit to the drain's 70m-deep shaft. There's also the Impeller Exploration Course (¥4,000 for 110 minutes) for those who want to explore the pressure regulating tank.  The newest of these tours is the Underground River Walking Adventure Course (¥15,000 for 240 minutes), where you can explore previously off-limits areas, including walking through an u

Tokyo has had its fair share of eye-catching 3D billboard ads over the past few years, showcasing everything from pandas to Doraemon – and even Yayoi Kusama for her 2022 Louis Vuitton collaboration. Now, the adorable (and sometimes mischievous) Chiikawa characters are joining the exclusive club to be shown on the Cross Shinjuku Vision billboard, where they’ll be appearing for a limited time from April 25 to May 11. While details are yet to be revealed on the duration of the ad and the frequency of the airings, a preview of the 3D clip features the characters Chiikawa, Hachiware and Usagi breaking through a glass wall with their sasumata sticks to greet the pedestrians below. ／ ちいかわたちが飛び出す⁉️＼ちいかわらんど新宿店オープンを記念しJR新宿駅東口「クロス新宿ビジョン」にちいかわたちが登場🎶🗓️放映期間4月25日(金)～5月11日(日)※撮影の際は周囲の方のご迷惑にならないようお気をつけください… pic.twitter.com/8lhmhquIqk — ちいかわグッズ公式 (@chiikawa_kouhou) April 23, 2025 The ad celebrates the April 25 opening of the nearby Chiikawa Land Shinjuku store, which is setting up shop on the second floor of Kiddy Land Shinjuku. More from Time Out Tokyo Grand Hyatt Tokyo is bringing back its Pokémon rooms and meals for summer Japan now has an official Hello Kitty airport Online booking to climb Mt Fuji will begin April 24 Hakone Ropeway to open new observation area overlooking a volcanic valley Loewe’s mega-exhibition has arrived in Tokyo with whimsical Studio Ghibli rooms Want to be the first to know what’s cool in Tokyo? Sign up to our newsletter for the latest updates from

With sun, sea, sand and excellent movies, it’s no wonder that the Zushi Beach Film Festival is a popular fixture on the Golden Week calendar. This open-air cinema in Kanagawa prefecture is organised by Cinema Caravan, a group of artists and creatives who plan community events around the world. Every year it brings this event to Zushi, with movie screenings on the beach plus food stalls, a bazaar and live entertainment. Photo: Zushi Beach Film Festival The 12-day festival is screening a variety of Japanese and international films; a few of them are in English with Japanese subtitles. Every day is a different movie and the show starts at a different time. You'll find the film schedule here, but note that tickets are no longer available for 'Florida Project' on Saturday April 26, 'The Legend of 1900' on Saturday May 3 and 'Lost in Translation' on Monday May 5. Here’s the line-up of English films: Saturday April 26: ‘Florida Project’ (2017), unemployed single mother Halley lives in a budget motel and struggles to make ends meet while taking care of her six-year-old Moonee. Wednesday April 30: 'The Endless Summer' (1966), director Bruce Brown follows two young surfers across the globe as they search for the perfect wave. Saturday May 3: ‘The Legend of 1900’ (1999), a young boy found on an ocean liner is raised without ever setting foot on land, and grows to be a musical prodigy. Monday May 5: ‘Lost in Translation’ (2004), Bill Murray is Bob Harris, and ageing movie star in the

The cherry blossom season in Tokyo – or Japan for that matter – revolves around the somei yoshino variety of sakura. This five-petal flower, whose colour ranges from the palest of pink to white, is the most common and popular sakura around. However, if you missed the chance to see them in full bloom, do not fret. There are, in fact, many species of cherry blossoms, and some of them bloom later in spring. Yaezakura, for instance, is an umbrella term for several types of sakura that have more than six petals. These white and vibrant pink flowers generally bloom from mid- to late-April. Among all the yaezakura, the kanzan, fugenzo and ichiyo cherry blossoms are the most common and you’ll find them in Tokyo. And the best part is, they usually reach peak bloom later in April, after the somei yoshino have all gone. So if you’re here in Tokyo in the later half of April, we recommend you check out these less celebrated but equally beautiful late-blooming cherry blossoms at the following parks and gardens. Photo: Pixta Mukojima-Hyakkaen Gardens Constructed in the early 19th century, this park cultivates a wide range of seasonal flowers so that there’s always something in bloom at any time of year. Late blooming yaezakura of the fugenzo and kanzan varieties can be seen here from mid- to late-April. Be sure to visit the tea house in the park for a refreshing glass of amazake (a sweet rice drink) while admiring the beautiful blossoms. The park entry is ¥150. Photo: Lim Chee Wah Kogan

A Unesco World Heritage Site, Kyoto’s Nijo Castle is getting a new look this spring with a collaborative digital art event hosted by art collective Naked. This is not the first time the company, led by actor and artistic director Ryotaro Muramatsu, has hosted an immersive light-up display at the 400-year-old castle. Naked have been putting on projection mapping shows at the venue every spring and autumn for a while now. This spring, the spectacular event is scheduled to run from March 14 to April 13.  Photo: Naked, Inc. This edition of ‘Naked meets Nijo Castle Sakura,’ taking place 80 years after the end of World War Two, will feature cherry blossom illustrations drawn by local children. The special art project is a collaborative effort between Muramatsu and the children of Kyoto with the theme of connecting the world with prayers for peace. It’s part of the Dandelion Project, a global participatory art initiative by Muramatsu. Photo: Naked, Inc. Because the event will coincide with Nijo Castle’s cherry blossom festival, the compound’s 300 cherry trees will also be lit up after sundown. There are 50 varieties of sakura on site, including the popular Somei-Yoshino trees, weeping cherry trees and Sato trees. This year, a new picnic area in the cherry blossom garden area will be set up for those who purchase a 'picnic set' sold on-site. Photo: Naked, Inc. The light-up event will run every night from 6pm to 10pm (last entry 9pm). Admission is ¥2,000 for adults and ¥1,000 f

Tomorrow marks 14 years since the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami that struck northeastern Japan. In remembrance of the victims of the disaster – and to remind everyone of their closest evacuation area in the event of a disaster – memorial fireworks will be launched in the evening of March 11 at three evacuation sites in Tokyo. Expect launches from 7pm at Meiji Jingu Gaien Softball Stadium (220 fireworks), Tokyo Metropolitan Komaba High School (75 fireworks) and the Tama Riverbed area near Futako-Shinchi Station (200 fireworks). Organised by the LY Corporation (the parent of Line and Yahoo Japan), the display isn’t just for show: it emphasises the importance of knowing nearby evacuation areas, which in Tokyo are roughly 2 kilometers apart – a distance that also makes for some excellent fireworks viewing. Note that there are no viewing areas around the fireworks sites. You can also watch the display online.More from Time Out Tokyo Here's the official Japan cherry blossom forecast for 2025 – updated You can now get Onigiri Bongo's famous rice balls at FamilyMart This Tokyo pizzeria is home to some of the world’s best pizza Kanto's largest tulip festival has 600,000 blooms – and it’s near Tokyo The massive snow corridor at Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is opening in April Want to be the first to know what’s cool in Tokyo? Sign up to our newsletter for the latest updates from Tokyo and Japan.

For many hikers and pilgrims, the Kumano Kodo trail is synonymous with the iconic view of Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine’s striking red, three-storey pagoda with the gorgeous Nachi waterfalls in the background. Those making the challenging hike in anticipation of the spectacular view, however, will be left severely disappointed this autumn, as the pagoda is currently undergoing repainting works until the end of December 2024.  The three-storey structure, officially known as the Seigantoji Pagoda, is receiving its first fresh coat of vermillion paint since its reconstruction in 1972. The repainting has begun on September 1 and is set to run until end-December. However, the time period could change depending on the progress. In the meantime, the pagoda is being covered up with scaffolding, but at least the temple has kindly printed a photo of the pagoda on the hoarding.  More from Time Out Tokyo Four cool festivals to check out in Tokyo this October 19-20 weekend Kumamoto Castle is hosting a temporary sea of clouds installation Shibuya is officially closed for Halloween 2024 Shinjuku now bans public drinking during Halloween 33,000 kochia bushes are now growing at Hitachi Seaside Park near Tokyo Want to be the first to know what’s cool in Tokyo? Sign up to our newsletter for the latest updates from Tokyo and Japan.

Internationally recognised photographer and film director Mika Ninagawa is known for her vibrant, hyperrealistic works, often featuring lush florals and dreamlike imagery. With ‘Lights of the beyond, Shadows of this world’ at the Kyoto City Kyocera Museum of Art, she presents her largest collaborative exhibit to date in the Kansai region together with creative team EiM. Inspired by the ancient city’s unique blend of history and modernity, Ninagawa explores the themes of light and shadows, life and the beyond. The exhibition comprises ten distinct installations, each flowing seamlessly into the next, creating a mesmerising, picture-scroll-like journey for visitors. Once inside the exhibition, expect to be enveloped in a world of vibrant colours and textures, including in Whispers of Light, Dreams of Color, which utilises 1,500 strands of shimmering crystals to create a dream-like realm of a sunshower frozen in time. The garlands which string the crystals together feature photographs of butterflies and pendants shaped like eyes that sway in the wind as visitors walk through. Photo: Kyoto City Kyocera Museum of ArtDreams of the beyond in the abyss Another highlight of the exhibition would be Dreams of the beyond in the abyss, a spatial work which takes visitors into a dark void, only to soon uncover a heavenly flower garden within the pits of the underworld. Ninagawa’s works, which invite introspection through her use of light and shadows, evoke the coexistence of beauty and e

Juchheim, the legendary confectioner behind Japan’s beloved Baumkuchen, is putting an innovative twist on its century-old craft at the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025. Bringing the tree-trunk cakes into a new era is Theo’s Cafe by Juchheim, where artificial intelligence and human expertise come together to serve freshly baked fluffy Baumkuchen in an immersive, future-forward setting. Photo: Juchheim Co., Ltd. Opening up shop within the ‘Forest of Tranquility – Earth Table Miraino Shokudo’ area of the Expo, Juchheim is aiming to offer an all-you-can-eat experience with unlimited servings of their signature cake. Photo: Juchheim Co., Ltd. Enabling this endeavour is Theo, the company’s newly developed and AI-powered Baumkuchen oven. It’s marketed as Juchheim’s cure for the travails of the traditional cake-making and distribution process, which doesn’t allow for the preservation of freshness while being costly and environmentally harmful. Photo: Juchheim Co., Ltd.Reborn Baumkuchen sold at a food truck Theo, on the other hand, is compact, easy to set up and can bake fresh Baumkuchen anywhere. Using image sensors and machine learning to achieve craftsman-level quality, the high-tech oven promises to revolutionise the art of perfectly round, satisfyingly moist tree-ring cakes. Moreover, leftover Baumkuchen batter will be repurposed into new sweet treats that will be made available via a food truck at the Expo. While you’re visiting, be sure to taste the freshly baked Baumkuchen served