Shota Nagao

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 and restaurants in Tokyo 

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

Japan’s railways are famous for their punctuality and speed, but some trains are designed to slow things down. The country’s countless scenic train services – known as Joyful Trains among rail enthusiasts and operators – turn the journey itself into a destination with elaborate interiors inspired by local culture and crafts, dining experiences showcasing regional produce, and breathtaking views through panoramic windows. From ultra-luxury sleeper services to charming regional lines passing through rice paddies and coastlines, read on for some of the best sightseeing trains to ride in Japan – and how to book them. RECOMMENDED: the best discount train deals and rail passes for short trips from Tokyo

Indulging in Tokyo's many food and drink festivals is one of the best ways to enjoy the cool spring weather. These gourmet events are poping up all around the city, with everything from beer gardens to meat festivals waiting to be enjoyed. Tokyo's food and drink festivals are also great places to try classic Japanese dishes like ramen, yakiniku and curry. And that's not to mention the opportunity to savour some of Tokyo's best brews. So, have we managed to whet your appetite? Good. Here are some of the most enticing food and drink events happening in Tokyo right now.  RECOMMENDED: the best regular and weekly markets in Tokyo

What a wonderful time to be in Tokyo! After recent weather fluctuations, the city’s cherry blossom season is now underway, with the Japan Meteorological Agency announcing the official start on Thursday March 19. Thanks to the recent warm weather, the city hit full bloom on Saturday March 28. While recent rain and wind have knocked some petals loose, many trees are still holding on to at least 50 percent of their blossoms, and sakura festivals and illuminations are still ongoing. 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

Cherry blossom season is undoubtedly the highlight of spring in Tokyo, or Japan for that matter. Whether you hit the blooming dates on-the-mark, or happen to be here just before or after the full bloom, there are still lots of sakura-inspired events, cherry blossom sweets and hanami (cherry blossom viewing) happenings around the city. So really, if you're in Tokyo in March or early April, you can still revel in all the pink festivities. RECOMMENDED: The best places to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo

With the weather warming up, we're not far away from Tokyo's cherry blossom season, with the flowers expected to start blooming from mid-March. Hanami (cherry blossom-viewing) picnics are one of the most popular ways to enjoy the flowers during the daytime, but there are plenty of opportunities to admire the pink blossoms in the evening, too. Many parks, gardens, temples, shrines and streets in Tokyo have special illuminations and light-up events when the sakura trees are in full bloom – so you can still admire these pink blossoms in the dark. Here are some of the best places in Tokyo to see spectacular cherry blossom illuminations in the evening.  RECOMMENDED: Best places to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo

For the past eight years, we’ve made it our mission to scope out the coolest pockets of the world’s greatest cities in order to create our definitive annual ranking. The places where stuff like nightlife, art, culture, and affordable food and drink can be found on every corner and down every backstreet. Where diversity is championed and independent businesses thrive, from old-school boltholes to the newest avant-garde art space. Put simply, the world’s coolest neighbourhoods are places that represent the soul of our cities, while maintaining their own unique local character that draws people in to live, work and play. So, what are the neighbourhoods that fit the bill this year? To find out, we asked our network of writers and editors across a breadth of cities to nominate the vibiest district in their hometown right now. We then ranked every neighbourhood against criteria including culture, community, liveability, nightlife, food and drink, street life and that hard-to-define sense of ‘nowness’.  On our list this year, you’ll find everything from homely, village-like enclaves with tight-knit communities to revitalised city-centre hubs and formerly dormant, industrial areas transformed into creative districts. Many are underrated spots that sit in the shadow of their commercialised counterparts; others have become unexpected culinary hotspots or magnets for the city’s artists, writers and activists. What they all have in common is a DIY spirit – and an unshakeable proclivity f

Want to feast in one of the world’s best food cities without breaking the bank? No worries – Tokyo’s got you covered. While life in the capital may not be getting any cheaper, the city hasn't lost the appetite for quality food at a great prices. Tokyoites love to eat out – a lot – and this makes Tokyo one of the best cities in the world for a great meal at a low price. Whether you’re feeling like a comforting bowl of ramen, soba, some sushi or even a fresh pizza, we’ve scoured Tokyo to pick out the top restaurants where you can get your fix, whatever you might be craving. Plus, many of these meals can easily cost you less than ¥1,200 (including tax), so you can eat a big meal and save some cash. RECOMMENDED: the best Tokyo ramen of 2025

One of the larger islands in the Seto Inland Sea, Shodoshima draws in visitors from across Japan and abroad with its temperate weather and breathtaking views. The island is famous for its relaxing, Mediterranean-like atmosphere, tranquil beaches and delicious seafood, as well as its abundance of avant-garde art installations, a result of Shodoshima’s long-time role as co-host of the Setouchi Triennale art festival. Also the set for the live-action adaptation of Studio Ghibli’s classic Kiki's Delivery Service and Japan's olive production capital, it’s a destination filled to the brim with sights to explore. Now, for the first time in 34 years, a new seaside resort hotel has opened its doors on this nature-filled island. Edit x Seven Setouchi Shodoshima, which celebrated its grand opening on March 5, is the perfect base from which to explore Shodoshima and the surrounding islands of Naoshima, Teshima and Inujima. Centred on the concept of luxury ‘self-hospitality’, the Edit x Seven brand focuses on providing high-quality service while offering more privacy and flexibility than a traditional hotel. In line with this concept, its newest offering brings a slice of luxurious style to the island. Here are five reasons to check it out.

Located just a quick train ride to the west and away from the hustle and bustle of Japan’s capital, Yamanashi prefecture is a favourite escape for Tokyoites seeking fresh air and open landscapes. Home to Mt Fuji and the scenic Fuji Five Lakes area, the region offers everything from hot spring bathing and seasonal fruit picking to lakeside cycling and autumn foliage viewing. The local food scene is equally enticing, with hearty hoto noodles, premium Koshu wine and farm-fresh produce forming the backbone of Yamanashi’s culinary identity. With so much to see and taste, the last thing you want while travelling is decision fatigue over where to eat. That’s where Yamanashi’s ‘Food Diversity’ certification programme comes in. This prefectural initiative makes it easier for visitors with specific dietary needs – including halal/Muslim, vegan and vegetarian requirements – to find suitable dining options. Restaurants certified under the programme clearly indicate the types of meals they offer, helping travellers dine with confidence. Here are three accredited venues to add to your itinerary.

Valentine’s Day can be a trying time for everyone. What’s more, here in Japan we must face the ordeal twice with Valentine’s Day on February 14 as well as White Day on March 14. For those wondering, White Day is a day marked in Japan as well as neighbouring Asian countries where the men who have received gifts on V-Day must return the gesture (it is typically the women who give men chocolates on February 14). For some, Valentine’s Day is a welcome excuse to eat lavish chocolates and go for ironic outings with your pals, but for others it’s a distressing day that they wish they could avoid altogether.  Still a little stung from your most recent break-up? Too busy for romance? Perhaps you just have a low tolerance for capitalist nonsense. If you're trying to dodge the potential strike of cupid's arrow this season, we've got you covered. Here's a roundup of the most unromantic places in the city, where you'll be able to hide from all those saccharin-sweet couples.  RECOMMENDED: See how Japan celebrates Valentine's Day

Marseille-based artists Barbara Penhouet and Bastien Marienne are bringing together a quietly evocative exhibition at UltraSuperNew Kura gallery from April 3 to May 8. Looking beyond surface-level appearances, the works feature scenes from Provence, Alpes and Cote d’Azur, transforming everyday moments into emotional landscapes by capturing fleeting sensations through layered impasto, bold use of light and delicate glazes. Their works convey distinct emotions across a variety of scenes – from the deep blues of the sea to the vibrant tones of the scrubland. Their works linger in that in-between where memory, presence and perception blurs, revealing the subtle vibrations of reality that often go unnoticed. Across 15 canvases, the artists explore themes of impermanence and inner stillness, creating compositions that feel both intimate and deceptively simple. The result is a meditative viewing experience – one that encourages you to slow down, sit with the moment, and sense the subtle presence of the unseen. Visits are by appointment only on weekdays, while walk-ins are welcome on Saturdays. The exhibition is closed on Sundays and Mondays. Reserve a spot on the official website.

Internationally recognised photographer and film director Mika Ninagawa is hosting a solo exhibition at the homey and intimate DDDArt art gallery in Shimokitazawa this spring. Much smaller in scale than the likes of her recent projects in Kyoto, at Expo 2025 and Tokyo Node, the exhibition takes a step back to revisit Ninagawa’s body of work, from her early career to her latest creations. Coinciding with the launch of her latest photo book with the same name, the exhibition brings the artist’s worldview to life in a physical space. As if the vibrant pages of the book were superimposed onto reality, the tatami-floored kominka folk house is reborn with shimmering crystal strands, red and pink paint splatters and super-saturated photo prints. Running until May 31, the exhibit is only a short stroll away from Shimokitazawa, where Ninagawa herself spent over a decade in her formative years. Why not take a detour towards Sangenjaya for a creative journey on your next visit to the area?

Step into a world of vibrant chrysanthemums this spring at this free collaborative exhibition between teamLab and Galaxy. Now in its fifth year, the interactive, immersive space at Galaxy Harajuku uses cutting-edge projection mapping to depict flowers caught in an endless cycle of birth and death. Reach out to touch them and they’ll wither; stand still beside them and they’ll bloom more quickly. Look down and you’ll see flowing currents of gold beneath your feet – traces shaped by your very presence. The movements of others create their own currents, which intertwine and form swirling vortices. The result is a constantly shifting environment where no two moments are ever the same. The Galaxy store also invites visitors to capture these fleeting scenes using the foldable smartphones available at the venue.

Head over to Komazawa Olympic Park during Golden Week to spend an entire day sampling some of Japan’s best gyoza. There will be 16 stalls offering more than 30 different styles of this quintessential Japanese dumpling. Enjoy grounded wagyu beef and the meaty keema curry gyoza from Tokyo's Tamagawa Meat, juicy Shinshu wasabi and miso dumplings from Nagano, tangy and succulent lemon gyoza from Kyoto, Hakata-style hitokuchi (bite-size) gyoza and much more. There will also be other dishes like fried rice to go with the gyoza, as well as craft beers from Hokkaido Brewing, Yatsugatake Beer and Kanagawa's Brimmer Brewing. There’s no entry fee, so you can just pay as you go. If you want to forgo the hassle of paying at each store, there is a package deal sold online for ¥4,500, which includes five ¥700 meal tickets, five ¥100 tickets, and one fast-pass ticket that lets you skip a queue.

Marunouchi’s gorgeous Cotton Club live jazz hall is hosting Millennial Jazz, an annual music event on March 19, with a special spotlight on next-generation artists reshaping the contemporary jazz scene. Founded to bring jazz to new listeners while giving longtime fans a reason to rediscover the genre in all its variety, Millennial Jazz showcases young musicians who are reimagining jazz classics with fresh sensibilities and bold improvisation, transcending genre boundaries and pushing Japanese jazz forward into a new era. The line-up features producer and vocalist Akira Wada, pianist Shota Watanabe, saxophonist Ryo Konishi, bassist Keisuke Furuki and drummer Akira Kudo. Vocalist Sara Yoshida of Mononkvl will also be making a guest appearance.The event has two sessions at 6pm and 8.30pm (doors open 5pm and 7.45pm respectively). Tickets are available via Ticket Pia and Lawson Ticket.

Coffee specialists from across the nation are gathering at Ginza’s Mitsukoshi department store this February for a stimulating showcase of contemporary coffee culture. Being held over eight days in the Mitsukoshi New Building’s 7th-floor event space, the festival features 33 carefully selected cafés, from entrants on the bleeding edge of Japan’s ever-evolving coffee culture to long-established coffee houses.Enjoy tastings at regional favourites like Mel Coffee Roasters from Osaka and Coffee County representing Fukuoka, as well as innovative brewers such as Philocoffea, which is credited for the revolutionary 4:6 method – an intuitive formula for dividing the hot water used to brew a cup of coffee – and compare coffees made with different roasts, bean types and brewing techniques.The venue will also include a ‘coffee counter bar’ where you can take in artisanal showcases. In addition to daily demonstrations of the Japanese-style Nel drip method, you can enjoy the brewing of Italian espressos and lattes right before your eyes. At the espresso counter, Barista Maestro-certified International Espresso Italiano Championship finalist Chihiro Yokoyama will be taking centre stage (or counter in this case), inviting you to enjoy a freshly brewed cup while observing the master’s brewing techniques up close. Before heading over, be sure to purchase a tasting ticket set (from ¥2,500) via Asoview to avoid queues and the off chance it's sold out. (Physical tickets are exchanged in the Ginz

Shibuya’s UltraSuperNew Kura gallery is hosting an exhibition of paintings that offer a firsthand account of the Eaton Fire, which devastated Los Angeles County in early 2025. The works, by Altadena resident Alejandro M Lopez, evoke the trauma, melancholy and ultimately hope in the rebirth of nature amidst the razing of neighbourhoods and wildlife. All of the works were painted within the fire zone and aim to spark dialogue around how climate change directly impacts people’s lives. ‘The climate crisis must not remain the story of loss that I experienced,’ says Lopez, ‘but instead become one of redemption, rebirth and change.’ To that end, the works give form to the often hard-to-articulate realities of climate change in a way words alone cannot. The exhibition runs at UltraSuperNew Kura from February 7 to 27. Visits are by appointment only on weekdays, while walk-ins are welcome on Saturdays. In addition to the exhibition, the gallery will host two related talks. A climate talk with Chris Russell and Alejandro M Lopez takes place on February 11 from 7pm to 8.30pm, followed by a talk with Maya Sobchuk, entitled ‘On the Space Between War and Peace’, on February 25 from 6.30pm to 9pm. The exhibition is closed on Sunday & Monday. Reserve a spot on the official website.

Ota ward’s Ikegami Baien (plum garden) makes the most of the hilly landscape surrounding Ikegami Honmonji temple, flourishing like a curtain of fragrant red and white blossoms every February. The garden of 370 plum trees in 30 varieties can be admired from a hillside observation deck or from the garden’s three traditional tea rooms. Special evening illuminations take place in the plum garden from mid-February to early March. Keep your eyes peeled for the official 2026 schedule, which should be released shortly.

This hidden gem, located in the maze of little alleys that make up Sangenjaya’s Sankaku Chitai, offers handmade hot dogs at a surprisingly affordable price point. Opened in 2014, the eatery makes its sausages in-house, which is why it’s able to keep costs low. While there are ten hot dogs and eight sauces to choose from, their most popular offering is the original Plain Hot Dog (¥980) filled with their homemade sauerkraut and topped with generous amounts of ketchup and mustard. If you’re looking to spice things up, order the Chilli Dog (¥950) or Chilli Cheese Dog (¥980) topped with their homemade chilli con carne sauce. A separate drink order is required when dining in.

Otaguro Park in Suginami's residential district of Minami-Ogikubo is a popular spot for admiring colourful autumn leaves, especially after sunset. At night, the main path leading to the Japanese garden – lined with century-old ginkgo trees – glows in vibrant yellow, while the garden’s fiery red maples are illuminated and mirrored on the still pond, creating picture-perfect photo ops.

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 Tamagotchi – Japan's beloved digital pets from outer space. Expect to see Mametchi, along with his sidekick Kuchipatchi and other pocketable pets such as Memechi. You can hop on the park’s Mametchi and Kuchipatchi themed 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 the whole Tamagotchi family. Keep wandering and you might stumble upon a mysterious UFO beaming with colour – maybe a hint at where these pocketable pets really came from. To wrap up the night, take in the dazzling lights and sweeping mountaintop views from the Ferris wheel or hop on the Tamagotchi Starry Sky Pedal for stunning panoramas and a light leg workout. While you’re there, indulge in Tamagotchi-themed meals and snacks. Enjoy a hearty Tamagotchi Poka Poka Star Ramen or the voluminous Mametchi's Omurice Curry Doria Plate. Prefer something sweet? Then check out Furawatchi's flower crepe or the Memechi mango sundae.

The annual Tokyo Art Book Fair (TABF) at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo in Kiyosumi returns this December at a larger scale than ever before, taking place over two weekends for the first time: December 11 to 14 and December 19 to 21. In this fifteenth instalment, expect a total of 560-odd publishers, galleries and artists from Japan and abroad taking part, with each weekend featuring a different line-up of exhibitors. At TABF, you’ll be able to flip through zines, chat with artists and browse quirky goods made for bibliophiles with an eye for design. The Guest Country programme, which has become a regular element of the book fair, is putting the spotlight on Italian publishers this year, with three exhibitions: YES YES YES: Revolutionary Press in Italy 1966-1977, showcasing underground newspapers and magazines, and Out of the Grid: Italian Zines 1978-2006, highlighting the evolution of zine culture. The programme also includes Marchette, exploring ties between corporations and publishing in Italian design, along with a showcase by Corraini, the publisher behind picture books by Bruno Munari, Enzo Mari and Ettore Sottsass. Aside from the pop-up booths where publishers, galleries and independent creatives will be showcasing their latest projects, the programme also includes a series of workshops and open-panel discussions to look forward to. General admission is ¥1,200 per person and advance tickets (¥1,000 plus a ¥165 booking fee) will be available online from November 2

Tokyo Streets X is back, and the hot photography and art show is as exciting a chance as any to immerse yourself in the world of Japan-based creatives. Born in 2023 as a space for emerging and established photographers in Tokyo to share their work, with a particular focus on street and documentary photography, it has quickly expanded to become a creative hub for interaction between photographers, visual artists and DJs from across Japan. The latest iteration began on April 21 and is taking place until April 26. Ahead of the exhibit’s opening, we took a look and talked to founder and curator Adam Benedicto about how Tokyo Streets X came to be – and where he plans to take it next. A view of Tokyo’s creative scene from its very centre Photo: Keisuke Tanigawa Talking with Adam, who grew up in West London’s vibrant and multicultural Ladbroke Grove, it was easy to see how he was inspired by his native neighbourhood in his decision to pick WPÜ Gallery as the festival’s home turf. The raw, warehouse-like space, complete with scaffolding from the now closed Commune in Shibuya, is reminiscent of the vibrant chaos that can be experienced at Portobello Market and Notting Hill Carnival, Europe’s largest street party. Similar to how those street-level festivities are inclusive, eclectic and alive, Tokyo Streets X brings together the perfect mix of up-and-coming artists, musicians, DJs and an ever-growing audience for creative collaborations to happen organically. Photo: Keisuke Tanigawa

Move over, bagged salads, quinoa and kombucha – the new trend in town is ultra-caffeinated energy drinks, instant Jiro-style ramen and home-delivered fried chicken. That’s what culinary consumption looks like in Japan among many people in their 20s and 30s right now, at least if we are to believe the Mainichi. The newspaper recently reported that youths are ‘more likely to “melt away stress” at home by themselves’ than by engaging in more traditional decompression activities such as getting drunk and singing karaoke with friends. So instead of partying the night away, Gen Z and Alpha are eating their way to serenity. With convenience stores apparently the prime outlet for culpable culinary treats, we headed to a nearby konbini to see what the hype around guilty pleasures is all about. Here are some of the highlights of our junky journey. Photo: Keisuke TanigawaJiro-kei Tonkotsu soy sauce ramen by Chuka Soba Tomita Jiro-kei Tonkotsu soy sauce ramen by Chuka Soba Tomita - 7-Eleven (while supplies last) Born through an unexpected collaboration between 7-Eleven Japan and celebrated Chiba-based ramen shop Tomita, this tonkotsu (pork bone) shoyu ramen comes topped with a thick cut of braised pork and boasts an oiliness level to rival even the fattiest bowls in town. Garlic, bean sprouts and pork back fat abound, as the dish stays true to the Jiro style of ramen, famed for its rich flavours and voluminous servings. Photo: Keisuke TanigawaChocolate Sprinkles & Whipped Cream Sandwi

As one of the world’s great megacities, Tokyo’s identity has been shaped as much by the buildings that define its skyline as by its streets and neighbourhoods. From late-19th-century brick structures to bold postwar experiments and contemporary landmarks, the city’s architecture offers a fascinating lens through which to understand the capital’s history, culture and ethos of constant renewal. This May, design lovers are in for a treat as the Tokyo Architecture Festival returns from May 16 to 24 with its biggest programme yet. Spanning districts including Ueno, Marunouchi, Ginza, Shinagawa, Roppongi and Shibuya, the festival invites visitors to step inside some of the capital’s most significant structures, many of which are typically closed to the public. Photo: Tokyo Architecture Festival Executive CommitteeTokyo University of the Arts, Red Brick Building 1 This year, the number of buildings offering free entry without advance reservations has expanded to 70. Among the highlights is the Tokyo University of the Arts Red Brick Building No. 1, believed to be the oldest surviving brick building in Tokyo. Built in 1880, the structure opens its second floor to visitors, revealing original roof trusses, arched windows and traces of past earthquake damage. Photo: Tokyo Architecture Festival Executive CommitteeCanada Garden Another standout is the Canadian Embassy, designed by Japanese-Canadian architect Raymond Moriyama. Visitors can explore the serene Canada Garden, the Prince T

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 collective 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 13-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. Here’s the line-up of English films: Friday April 24: ‘School of Rock’ (2003) follows a struggling musician who impersonates a substitute teacher at a prep school and turns his students into a rock band for a battle of the bands competition. Sunday April 26: ‘Hook’ (1991), adult Peter Pan, now a workaholic lawyer, must return to Neverland to rescue his children from Captain Hook and rediscover his lost sense of wonder. Tuesday April 28: 'Awakenings' (1990), Robin Williams is Dr. Malcolm Sayer, a researcher in 1969 Bronx who administers an experimental drug that temporarily awakens catatonic patients, with varying results. Tuesday May 5: 'All the Streets Are Silent: New York' (1987–1997) is a documentary by Jeremy Elkin that explores how hip-hop and skateboarding cultures intertwined

Many Tokyoites have fond memories of Ueno Zoo’s iconic suspended monorail, which linked the East and West sections of the zoo from 1957 until its stoppage in 2019. The animal-plastered train’s permanent closure in 2023 was met with dismay by locals and train enthusiasts, but now it sounds like the monorail is set to make a comeback of sorts. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has unveiled plans for a new transport system that broadly follows the route of the original monorail. Travelling 14 metres above ground, this people mover will offer sweeping views of the zoo and Shinobazu Pond through its wide windows, and even go above the pond during its 3.5-minute journey between two stations. Photo: Tokyo Metropolitan GovernmentFloor-to-ceiling windows line the walls What’s new about this 21-metre-long train is that it will incorporate an ‘energy-saving’ design somewhat similar to that of a roller coaster. While hardly fast – it’ll travel at around 20 kilometres per hour maximum – the train will only be motorised on the uphill portions of the track, running solely on kinetic energy on downhill sections. This set-up will allow it to descend by relying only on inertia and gravity. Construction on the new people mover is starting later this year, with the opening planned for fiscal year 2029 (April 2029–March 2030). More from Time Out Tokyo See the world’s most famous work of Japanese erotic art now in Kabukicho 10 art exhibitions to check out in and around Tokyo this spring 7 best p

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 latter 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 Koga

Quem planeia viajar para o Japão poderá em breve ter de cumprir mais um passo de burocracia (digital) antes de embarcar. O governo japonês aprovou uma proposta que introduz um novo sistema de pré-avaliação chamado Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization (JESTA). O novo sistema, que o governo pretende implementar durante o ano fiscal de 2028 (entre Abril de 2028 e Março de 2029), vai aplicar-se a viajantes de países que actualmente beneficiam de entrada sem visto para estadias curtas. Antes de embarcar para o Japão, será necessário submeter online informações pessoais básicas e dados da viagem para obter autorização. As companhias aéreas poderão recusar o embarque a passageiros que não tenham essa autorização previamente. Espera-se que o JESTA funcione de forma semelhante ao sistema ESTA dos Estados Unidos, permitindo às autoridades de imigração fazer uma triagem dos passageiros antes da chegada. Isto significa menos tempo nas filas da imigração (e chegar mais depressa ao hotel)? Ainda não é claro. O governo diz que a medida visa reduzir permanências ilegais e reforçar o controlo de fronteiras, numa altura em que o turismo continua a crescer. O JESTA implicará o pagamento de uma taxa de candidatura, embora ainda não tenha sido anunciado um valor concreto. Como referência, os EUA cobram 40 dólares por pedido de ESTA. As alterações poderão também ter impacto nos residentes no Japão, já que a proposta prevê aumentar o limite máximo das taxas de imigração, incluindo para

On March 28, Tokyo unveiled its newest attraction: a massive fountain show set against the city’s skyline. Installed as part of an effort to revitalise the waterfront area of Odaiba, which saw visitor numbers drop in the wake of the pandemic, the fountain is one of the biggest in the world, measuring up to 150 metres tall and 250 metres wide. Photo: Karin Minamishima Titled ‘Tokyo Aqua Symphony’, this is no ordinary fountain show: it unfolds above the open waters of Tokyo Bay, between Odaiba Marine Park and the Rainbow Bridge. The daily display runs for 10 minutes every hour between 11am and 9pm. Three programmes are played: the original composition ‘Sakura Fubuki’ with its powerful use of traditional Japanese instruments, as well as orchestral renditions of the Dragon Quest themes ‘Loto's Theme’ and ‘And Thus, into the Legend’. Photo: Karin MinamishimaSakura-shaped centre fountain illuminated in pink The daytime aquatic show transforms into an illuminated spectacle by nightfall. At its centre is a sakura-shaped ‘cherry blossom fountain’, a nod to the Somei Yoshino variety, Tokyo’s official flower. Using shifting water pressure, coloured lighting and varying water column sizes, the dynamic performance is truly a sight to behold. Given the sheer scale of the installation, you’ll have little trouble finding a spot to sit and take it all in. For the best views, we recommend heading to a vantage point within Odaiba Marine Park. More from Time Out Tokyo These new renderings sh

Prepare your ponchos and panniers: Harajuku J-fashion icon Sebastian Masuda has opened his first large-scale solo exhibition in years. ‘Kawaiitopia’, its name a portmanteau of kawaii and utopia, is now on view at Hyper Museum Hanno. The show is packed with psychedelic, candy-coloured installations and immersive rooms made for photo ops. The exhibition unfolds across six themed spaces presented in a loose chronology, tracing Masuda’s formative experiences and how he arrived at his understanding of kawaii after navigating personal conflicts. Visitors are invited to follow that journey and reflect on their own definition of kawaii, which Masuda frames not simply as ‘cuteness’, but as a personal universe of freedom and self-acceptance. Photo: Shota Nagao A standout is the artist’s signature work ‘Colorful Rebellion – Seventh Nightmare’, first conceived in New York 12 years ago and now reimagined in Japan for the first time. The installation features a stuffed teddy bear in a bedroom lined with neon-pink and yellow toys and trinkets, alongside a dramatic crater spilling plush dolls outward. It reads as a self-portrait shaped by the struggles and impulses that have defined Masuda’s life, from desire and delusion to fate, wounds and reality. Photo: Shota Nagao While it’s taking place a bit outside central Tokyo, the exhibition offers an approachable but deep dive into Harajuku kawaii while prompting a look at where the culture is headed next. Expect plenty of Instagram-worthy ph

Best known for its flagship Tokyo property, the Imperial Hotel stands as one of Japan’s most prestigious accommodation brands, so the group opening a new hotel is an occasion in itself. And with none other than Kyoto selected to host this fourth link in the Imperial Hotel chain, there’s even more cause for excitement. Marking the group’s first new hotel in roughly 30 years, the Imperial Hotel, Kyoto opened on March 5 in the former Yasaka Kaikan, a landmark building deeply intertwined with the cultural life of the Gion neighbourhood. Housed within heritage   Photo: Yasaka Nyokoba Gakuen   Built in 1936, the Yasaka Kaikan long served as a theatre and community hall closely tied to the district’s geiko and maiko culture. It functioned as a gathering place for the neighbourhood, hosting performances and community events. However, the historic structure eventually fell out of use due to seismic safety concerns. In 2018, the building was acquired by the Imperial Hotel group, which began planning its revival. Because the building is a nationally registered Tangible Cultural Property, renovating it meant adhering to strict preservation requirements. Key elements of the original building were reconstructed, largely with original materials, particularly the south-facing facade and the frontage along Hanamikoji Street. Guest rooms facing these preserved sections, aptly named ‘heritage rooms’, feature modestly sized windows in unconventional places, reflecting the building’s original a

Visitors heading to Japan may soon need to complete an extra step of (digital) paperwork before boarding their flight. The Japanese government approved a bill last week that will introduce a new pre-travel screening system called the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization (JESTA). The new system, which the government hopes to implement during fiscal 2028 (April 2028–March 2029), will apply to travellers from countries that currently enjoy visa-free entry to Japan for short stays. Before getting on that plane for Japan, visitors will need to submit basic personal and travel information online to receive approval. Airlines may deny boarding to passengers who haven’t obtained the authorisation in advance. JESTA is expected to work similarly to the equivalent ESTA system used by the United States, allowing immigration authorities to screen passengers before arrival. Does this mean less time spent in the airport immigration queue (aka a faster route to your hotel bed)? We’re not sure. The government says its move is aimed at reducing overstays and strengthening border controls as inbound tourism continues to surge. JESTA will require travellers to pay an application fee, but the government has not yet indicated a specific number. For comparison, the US charges about ¥6,000 per ESTA application. The changes may also hurt Japan residents’ wallets, as the newly approved bill proposes to raise the upper limit of fees at immigration, including for changing residency status, r

One of the most mysterious monsters in the Pokémon universe is taking over one of Tokyo’s most important underground arteries – the purple Hanzomon Line. The serendipitous collaboration, running from March 2 to March 15, reminds us of the Oedo Line x Ed Sheeran collaboration last year and plays on the coincidence that the line’s signature colour closely matches Ditto’s own lilac hue. The collab also riffs on the similar sounds of ‘Hanzomon’ and Ditto’s Japanese name, Metamon. Expect to see Ditto taking shape on the subway in the form of hanging train handles, pillars on the train platforms and even the Hanzomon line roundel in select stations and trainsets. 半蔵門線乗ったらめっちゃ可愛いメタモンの吊り革見つけました✨ pic.twitter.com/bHVb9DeO8W — ハスカップ07 (@haskap1017) March 2, 2026 If you’re hoping to catch the collaboration trains, keep an eye out for the newest 18000-series trainsets, easily recognisable by their sleek purple livery. Only two of these trains feature the special Ditto-themed interiors, complete with character ads and customised train handles. Three stations on the line – Shibuya, Hanzomon and Oshiage (Skytree-mae) – are decked out with Ditto-themed decorations celebrating the amorphous Pokémon. For a smooth photo op away from the worst crowds, we recommend heading to either Hanzomon or Oshiage instead of the always busy Shibuya. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ポケモン公式 (@pokemon_jpn) The collaboration coincides with the launch o