Shota Nagao

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

Travel in Japan has never been more accessible. While challenges remain, major cities such as Tokyo are now dotted with ‘barrier-free’ toilets, elevators and accessible stations, with many more remote areas following suit. Yet accessibility in tourism is more than just a compliance checklist; it’s about creating opportunities, shifting perspectives and designing experiences that truly include everyone. That is the goal of Accessible Adventure Customized Tours, an initiative by the Ise-Shima National Park Council for the Promotion of Eco-Tourism. Member guides from the council offer guided nature tours within Ise Shima National Park, highlighting the natural beauty of the area through activities such as kayaking and snorkelling, adapted to cater to adventurers of all ages and abilities. For a small taste of their repertoire, read on for our picks of the best experiences wheelchair users can have in Ise Shima.

If you’re looking for a different autumn experience around Tokyo and Japan, go seek out fields of susuki pampas grass instead of the usual red maple and yellow ginkgo trees. This tall plant is green in summer, but then it turns into shimmering shades of gold and silver when autumn rolls around. Because of this, pampas grass fields have become an Instagram hit of late, especially the one at Sengokuhara in Hakone. Here we’ve rounded up the top spots in Japan where you can frolic through fields of breezy pampas grass. RECOMMENDED: Looking for more things to do this season? Here are the most beautiful autumn destinations across Japan

タイムアウト東京 > Things To Do > 神保町でしかできない18のこと 東京の知識人が何世代にもわたって集ってきた地、神保町。ここは歴史ある大学街であり、ビブリオマニアにとっての楽園だ。約130軒の古書店があり、そのほとんどが低層のやや年季の入った雑居ビルに入居し、昔ながらの喫茶店やカレー店と建物を共有している。 新しい学生たちが絶え間なく流入することで、エネルギッシュな底流が生まれており、過去と現在が鮮やかに息づいている街でもある。路地裏には、新しいタイプの親密なミュージックバー、本格的なインドカレー店、クールなカフェ、独立系書店が次々と登場し、デジタル生活の不安や絶え間ないペースに対する理想的な癒やしのように感じられる場所に、新たな層を加えている。 「タイムアウト」は「世界で最もクールな街ランキング」の2025年度版では、この神保町が第1位に選ばれるという快挙を成し遂げた。ここでは、そんな神保町の中で、英語編集部がセレクトした訪れてほしい場所を紹介しよう。これが神保町の究極ガイドだ。 関連記事『神保町が2025年「世界で最もクールな街」ランキング第1位に選出』

The hangout of choice for generations of Tokyo intellectuals, Jimbocho is a historic university enclave and a bibliophile nirvana that enjoys a charmed existence just a quick stroll away from the city’s most high-powered business districts. It’s home to some 130 second-hand bookstores, most of them housed in low, slightly antiquated mixed-use buildings they share with old-school coffeeshops and curry houses. While this is a neighbourhood where the past vividly informs the present, the steady influx of new student cohorts lends Jimbocho an energetic undercurrent – one that’s now surging. In the backstreets, a new breed of intimate music clubs, authentic Indian curry spots, cool cafés and indie booksellers are adding fresh layers to a place that feels like the ideal remedy to the anxieties and relentless pace of digital life. We’ve just released our annual ranking of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods, and Tokyo’s Jimbocho takes the number one spot. Of course, there are incredible things to discover all over this city, but if you’re looking for one essential stop, make it here. From hidden bars to manga-themed hotel rooms, pizza toast to listening bars, this is your ultimate guide to Jimbocho. RECOMMENDED: your ultimate round-the-clock guide to the capital

It might seem like the grass is greener in other prefectures – think of the temple-lined hills of Kamakura or the majestic Mt Fuji – but there are plenty of hidden pockets of nature in Tokyo. The city was once a vast, sprawling landscape of trees and fields before it became a business playground filled with suited salarymen and deluxe department stores, but you can still find some quiet nature spots, even close to bustling train stations.  Here are some of the best nature escapes in Tokyo, from lush valleys to hiking trails.  RECOMMENDED: 9 best discount train deals and rail passes for short trips from Tokyo

Mt Fuji, Japan’s iconic mountain, remains wildly popular among visitors to Japan, whether they choose to admire the peak by crowding a convenience store parking lot or ascending the majestic volcano itself. While there are endless options to take in stunning views of Mt Fuji, it’s much harder these days to come by a place where you can have the vista all to yourself – not to mention getting to enjoy it from the comfort of your room.

Summer in Tokyo may be a time of scorching heat, but it’s also one of the city’s most vibrant seasons with fireworks, traditional festivals and dancing in the streets. These lively events undoubtedly help make the city's steamy nights a little more bearable. The celebrations usually start around Tanabata (July 7) and continue with events dedicated to everything from sunflowers to Awa Odori dances. We've put together a list of all the major summer festivals happening in Tokyo from July through September 2025. Now's your turn to experience the magic of summer and fill up on delicious matsuri food. RECOMMENDED: Don't miss the best fireworks festivals in and near 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

What Tokyoite doesn’t like to flaunt a little city trivia to impress a visiting friend or family member? But if you really want to appear like a local expert, not just any old fact will do – you need the really important stuff, like how many bars are there in Golden Gai? How did Sangenjaya become so damn hip? Why can’t Tokyo seem to beat Osaka in the highly competitive discipline of mass Bon Odori dancing? We’ve got these and plenty more essential (and essentially useless) Tokyo facts for you right here. Tokyo world records As you might imagine for a city this size, Tokyo holds a worthy amount of world records, some of them more unusual than others. Here are our favourites. 1. World’s most visited one-group museum Ever since digital art impresarios teamLab debuted their dazzling interactive creations around a decade ago, experiencing them has become something of a must for visitors to Tokyo (and plenty of locals, too). The capital boasts two immersive teamLab spaces: Planets and Borderless. Planets, the longer-running of the two, was in 2023 officially recognised by Guinness World Records as the most visited museum in the world exhibiting works by a single art collective. That’s before it expanded with new installations, no less. 2. Most LGBTQ+ venues in a single neighbourhood Shinjuku Nichome is the heart of Tokyo’s LGBTQ+ scene, boasting an estimated 300 queer bars and clubs in just a five-block area – the highest concentration of LGBTQ+ venues in the world. Hit up the righ

Japan’s world-renowned efficient train network is a thing of beauty. We love being able to zip around the country on a shinkansen for a weekend getaway, but that convenience often comes with a hefty price tag. A trip from Tokyo to Osaka can cost around ¥15,000 one-way. Thankfully, Japan’s railway companies offer package deals for trips on a budget. Deals can include shinkansen tickets to and from your destination, unlimited public transport once you’re there, and even discounts on local attractions.  Whether you want to spend a day exploring Greater Tokyo, take a day trip to Nikko, or go skiing at Echigo Yuzawa for the weekend, be sure to check out these deals before you book your next trip.  RECOMMENDED: useful apps for travelling in Japan

One of the most iconic summer festivals in Tokyo, Bon Odori is a communal dance performed in public spaces. It's a Buddhist custom that dates back 500 years, held as part of the Obon period, where locals honour the spirits of their ancestors. Bon Odori festivals are always a fun, joyous affair. A makeshift stage known as a yagura will be set up in the middle, acting as the focal point of the event. It houses the lead dancers and musicians who set the pace and choreography for the dance while participants gather around it and dance along in circles. It's a perfect way to spend a summer evening and soak up the good vibes. So put on a yukata and come join us at one of Tokyo's most exciting Bon Odori festivals this summer. RECOMMENDED: 10 best fireworks festivals in and near Tokyo this summer

The Sawara Grand Festival is held twice a year – in July and October – in the picturesque canal city of Sawara in northern Chiba. Regarded as one of the three largest float festivals in the Kanto region, the festival was recognised by UNESCO as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property in 2016. The autumn version of the Sawara Grand Festival takes place from October 10 to 12, centred around Suwa Shrine and the town's carefully preserved historical district. Expect to see fourteen magnificent floats adorned with meticulously crafted ornaments and likenesses of ancient warriors on top during the three-day fest. For fans of traditional festivals, this is a truly immersive experience – complete with dancers in period costume, the rhythmic sounds of Sawara bayashi festival music, and a cityscape that feels like it’s been frozen in time for the 300 years the festival has been held for. While Sawara is located a stone’s throw away from Narita, getting to the city from central Tokyo by train is a bit more difficult. The journey takes approximately two hours, involving a transfer from the Sobu Line Rapid Service at Narita to the Narita Line to Sawara Station. However, easier and faster direct-route bus options are available from Bus Terminal Tokyo Yaesu, stop no. 14 (Choshi Sawara Route). Tip: While you're there, check the Sawara Festival Digital Map for real-time mikoshi float locations.

Everyone loves Chiikawa right now. Get your fill of the mischievous characters created by Japanese illustrator Nagano in Shibuya, where the franchise’s official ramen shop returns for a limited time. Located on the basement floor of Shibuya Parco, it deals in ramen of the pork variety, hence the buta (pig) in the name. The ramen is served in three sizes: Chiikawa (mini), Hachiware (small) and Usagi (large). Each bowl will come with a novelty sticker, featuring either Chiikawa, Hachiware or Usagi depending on the bowl you ordered. As for drinks, the Shisa Mandarin Soda is a must-try, named after the hard-working lion dog and ramen shop assistant in the Chiikawa universe. Each drink comes with a novelty character card, which you can draw at random from a selection of 10 characters. Visitors who grab a bite of the ramen are also allowed exclusive access to the adjacent merch shop, complete with limited-edition goods – think T-shirts, ramen bowls, beer jugs and towels featuring the adorable Chiikawa.

Positioned right in between Jimbocho, Kudanshita and Suidobashi, Echo Records is a niche second-hand record store with a psychedelic edge. The store specialises in used vinyl ranging from American pre-war blues and jazz to psychedelic rock of the ’60s and ’70s. Owner Takeshi Dooka runs the shop from behind a bar counter, serving cheap pints and homemade coffee – the perfect companions whether you’re sinking into the sofa to listen to your latest find on the shop’s custom speakers or taking a break from digging through stacks of records. Dooka, who still plays in a band from time to time, first opened the shop in western Tokyo in 2020, when live gigs were scarce during the height of the pandemic. Seeing musicians rally together to support each other inspired him to pursue his longstanding interest in records and collecting. On a trip to London, Birmingham and other English cities, he hauled back a beefy stash of vinyl in tote bags and carry-ons. Since then, Echo Records has built a loyal following thanks to its distinctive curation, encouraging shoppers to dig with purpose and discover the right record, rather than simply browse through an A-to-Z index. The amicable owner is always on hand to share stories about his finds, recommend hidden gems, or pour you a beer while the turntable spins. You'll also find a small vintage clothing shop on the first floor.

A Japan-first exhibition celebrating the visionary artistry of cinema legend Jean-Luc Godard has taken over the iconic Ohjo Building in Shinjuku’s Kabukicho. Until August 31, the castle-shaped landmark in the heart of Kabukicho is hosting an immersive multi-screen installation that reinterprets The Image Book, the final feature-length work by the late French master. Structured into five chapters, the film took four years to create and reflects on more than a century of history, war, religion and art, weaving together quotes from classic films, literature and artworks. The exhibition deconstructs and reassembles this complex work, freeing it from the linear constraints of the cinema screen. Curated by Fabrice Aragno, filmmaker and longtime collaborator of Godard, the critically acclaimed show offers a rare window into the director’s creative world, inviting visitors to wander through fragments of image and sound and step inside the mind of one of cinema’s most influential figures. Tickets are available for purchase on-site or through the official website.

Held in the Tokyo Node creative complex on the upper floors of the Toranomon Station Tower, the Design Ah! exhibition by national broadcaster NHK transforms its acclaimed educational TV programme (of the same name) into a vivid hands-on experience. Suitable for visitors of all ages, the exhibition reimagines everyday actions like walking or eating through a design lens, fostering curiosity, creative thinking, and a sharper awareness of the world around us. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to try out the interactive gesture screen, where visitors are invited to use gestures to interact with subjects in a video in an immersive and responsive way. With immersive 360-degree audiovisual installations, visual puzzles and interactive zones, the show offers a playful yet thought-provoking way to explore how design influences daily life.

The sleek designer toilets that took Tokyo by storm in 2018 – and later even inspired the film Perfect Days – will host a unique photography exhibit this summer, showcasing works by world-famous B&W photographer Daido Moriyama from July 19 to September 23. The main exhibition space, where Moriyama’s photographs of the designer toilets are displayed, will be the Hatagaya Public Toilet. Miles Pennington/UTokyo DLX Design Lab designed this toilet specifically with multifunctionality in mind. Envisioned to be used as an exhibition space or a pop-up kiosk – in addition to its primary function, of course – the toilet will now play the role of a photo gallery. Moreover, don’t miss this opportunity to check out the 10 other designer toilets in Shibuya ward, which for the duration of the event will all feature toilet paper adorned with imprints of Daido Moriyama’s photographs. Participating public toilets include: Sasazuka Greenway, Hatagaya Toilet, Nanago Dori Park, Nishihara Itchome Park, Haru-no-Ogawa Community Park, Yoyogi Fukamachi Mini Park, Jingu-Dori Park, Nabeshima Shoto Park, Ebisu Park, Ebisu East Park and Hiroo Higashi Park. 

Heralding the arrival of the summer farming season, the Narita Gion Festival has been a key celebration of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple in the Chiba prefecture city of Narita for over 300 years. Taking place near Narita International Airport, this event is held annually to pray for prosperity and a good harvest while seeking the blessing of the temple’s main deity, Fudo Myoo.  On all three days, ten beautifully carved and decorated floats plus one mikoshi (portable shrine) will be taken on a vibrant parade on the city streets, including the area surrounding JR Narita Station and the main road leading to Naritasan Shinshoji. The festivities begin on Friday July 4 with an opening dance ritual at Naritasan Main Hall at 1.30pm to pray for the safe proceedings of the festival. From there, the floats will begin their procession around town, with each having its own designated route.  The festival highlights include a large-scale traditional dance performance involving all the floats, set to happen in front of JR Narita Station on Saturday July 5 at 9am. This event effectively kicks off the festival’s second-day festivities.  Be sure to stay until the evening on the last day, Sunday July 6, as the festival will reach its climax with floats reconvening on the Omotesando road for an energetic race up the town’s main thoroughfare towards Naritasan Shinshoji. For this night procession, the floats will be illuminated with lanterns, giving them an even more awe-inspiring and mystical appear

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.

「東京国立近代美術館」が、子どもたちの大切なぬいぐるみを対象にした「ぬいぐるみお泊り会2025　秋のお泊り会」を開催する。お気に入りのクマやウサギ、ディズニーキャラクターのぬいぐるみが、持ち主に代わって美術館に宿泊して作品を鑑賞したり、映画『ナイト ミュージアム』のように夜の館内を探検したりできるチャンスだ。 画像提供：東京国立近代美術館ぬいぐるみお泊り会2025 夏のお泊り会の様子 これは、子どもたちが美術館やアートへの親しみを育むことを目的としたユニークな企画。内容は、全国から応募されたぬいぐるみの中から選ばれた20体が、2025年11月7日（金）〜9日（日）の期間に「特別ゲスト」として館内に迎えられる。ぬいぐるみたちは美術館の所蔵作品が並ぶ「MOMATコレクション」の展示室内を探検し、絵画や彫刻の名作とともに写真撮影を楽しみ、夜を過ごす。 画像提供：東京国立近代美術館ぬいぐるみお泊り会2025 夏のお泊り会の様子 イベント終了後には、プロのフォトグラファーが撮影した、ぬいぐるみの写真をまとめた1冊のアルバムが持ち主のもとに郵送される。大切なぬいぐるみが自分の元を離れ、美術館で過ごした夜の様子がのぞき見られる、心温まる記念になるだろう。 画像提供：東京国立近代美術館ぬいぐるみお泊り会2025 夏のお泊り会の様子 この取り組みは、Adobe Foundationの支援によって実施され、子どもたちが美術館やアートに親しむ機会を増やすことを目的としている。応募期間は10月14日（火）〜28日（火）。対象は中学生以下の子どもたちのぬいぐるみで、サイズは10〜100センチメートルの範囲に限られる。応募多数の場合は抽選で20体が選ばれる。 画像提供：東京国立近代美術館ぬいぐるみお泊り会2025 夏のお泊り会の様子 選ばれたぬいぐるみは、持ち主が直接美術館へ持参する必要があり、約1週間の「お泊まり」を経て返却される。詳細は、美術館の公式ウェブサイトで確認してほしい。 関連記事 『都市空間が展覧会場に、「T3 PHOTO FESTIVAL TOKYO」が開催中』 『秋の建長寺で「心と脳がととのう」夜間拝観イベントが開催』 『軽井沢の重要文化財「旧三笠ホテル」が5年半の修理を経てリニューアルオープン』 『豪華絢爛、ヴァン クリーフ＆アーペルの軌跡をたどる展覧会が開幕』 『日常を拡張し物語を掘り起こす、「笹本晃 ラボラトリー」展が開幕』 東京の最新情報をタイムアウト東京のメールマガジンでチェックしよう。登録はこちら 

Osaka’s six-month-long world exposition is nearing its closing date, with only five days left until the final day. And it’s going out with a bang – or quite a few bangs, actually. The organisers, in a bid to show appreciation for all visitors as well as the entire staff, who together helped realise a largely successful Expo, are hosting a daily fireworks show from the southern side of the Grand Ring. View this post on Instagram A post shared by JapanFireworksExpo (@jfp_hanabi) The display, which is expected to last around 5 minutes per session, will begin daily at 6.35pm. Be sure to secure a spot on the roof of the Grand Ring for the best view. What’s more, the displays on Wednesday October 8 as well as from October 11 to 13 will be larger in scale than on the other days. For more information, visit the Expo’s official news blog. And if you’d like to reserve special paid seating (such as viewing from a cruise), check out this dedicated site. More from Time Out Osaka Kyoto to increase hotel tax by up to 900 percent, making it Japan’s highest Kyoto's lesser-known giant lantern float parade returns this month Your first look at teamLab’s stunning new Kyoto museum, its largest in Japan Kyoto’s Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is lighting up with lanterns this October This psychedelic train restaurant in Kyoto offers immersive art and kawaii dining

From fields of colourful tulips to a sea of blue nemophila, the sprawling Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki has something to see every season. In summer, the park starts growing kochia, or summer cypress. These fluffy little bushes look like something out of a Dr Seuss book. Scaled up for 2025, there are now approximately 40,000 kochia bushes growing at the park’s Miharashi no Oka Hill area, covering roughly 2.3 hectares. Photo: Fukamiyoga/DreamstimeA stock photo of Hitachi Seaside Park in summer During summer, the bushes are in a fresh, vibrant green colour, but come autumn, they'll turn brilliant red.  Photo: Banky405/Dreamstime These 'fur balls' have already started to change colour. The best time to see them in their full red glory is from mid-October. Later into the month, they'll start to take on a dusty golden hue. View this post on Instagram A post shared by 国営ひたち海浜公園【公式】 (@hitachikaihin) Currently, the green bushes have just started to turn red and will be at peak viewing from October 18 to October 26. You can keep tabs on this year’s kochia colours forecast via Hitachi Seaside Park’s website. The kochia plants changing colour coincides with the annual Kochia Carnival, which is also showcasing gorgeous red and pink cosmos flowers on the lower sections of Miharashi no Oka Hill. The carnival runs until October 31. The park is roughly two hours from Tokyo Station. See the park’s website for information on how to get there. This arti

If your child has ever wished their favourite teddy bear, bunny or Disney plushie could have a ‘night at the museum’ adventure, now’s their chance. The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo has announced an open call for anyone wanting to send off their beloved plushie for a week to adventure among real artworks. View this post on Instagram A post shared by 東京国立近代美術館｜The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo (@momat_museum) Here’s how it works: The museum will select 20 stuffed animals from an applicant pool that regularly reaches 1,000, adopting them as ‘special guests’ for an overnight adventure that lasts from November 7–9 to 11–16. They’ll roam the MOMAT Collection Gallery, pose for playful snapshots with paintings and sculptures, and spend the night in the museum’s hallowed halls. After the sleepover, a professional photographer compiles the photos of each plushie into a keepsake album and mails it to the soft toy’s owner, turning an ordinary stuffed animal into a certified art critic. View this post on Instagram A post shared by 東京国立近代美術館｜The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo (@momat_museum) This playful initiative is part of a broader program, supported by the Adobe Foundation, aimed at giving kids more chances to explore museums and experience art. Applications will be taken from October 14 to October 28 and, again, only 20 lucky plushies will be selected for the autumn sleepover. If your child’s favourite stuffed friend ma

The first ever Pokémon manhole covers were installed in Kagoshima prefecture in 2018, and the project has now expanded to 37 prefectures (and counting) across Japan. These Pokémon manhole covers, also known as Poké Lids, are location specific, meaning each area has a unique set of Pokémon featured on the covers. While most of these Poke Lids were installed outside Tokyo, you can still find some in the city and nearby in Yokohama. Here’s where you can spot them all. Photo: Youka Nagase The only Poké Lids you’ll find in central Tokyo are at Ueno Park. There’s one with Wynaut and Tyrunt in front of The National Museum of Nature and Science, near the massive whale statue. Photo: Youka Nagase Walk towards the Tokyo National Museum and you’ll see another one with Baltoy and Bronzor. Photo: Youka Nagase The Pokémon manhole covers at Yokohama are dedicated to Pikachu, like this one outside Sakuragicho Station. You’ll see the yellow electric mouse featured together with his friends across Yokohama. Photo: Youka Nagase Just a five-minute walk away, Nippon Maru Memorial Park is home to a Poké Lid with Psyduck and Machop. Photo: Youka Nagase This one with Victini and Munchlax is located adjacent to Yokohama Pukarisanbashi Pier. Photo: Youka Nagase There’s one with Pikachu and Raichu near the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse. Photo: Youka Nagase The one at the entrance of Yokohama Marine Tower features Pelipper. Photo: Youka Nagase Machida may seem a little too far for those i

As we approach autumn and the weather gets cooler, now’s the perfect time to get out and explore Tokyo again. The best day to do so is this Wednesday October 1, as it’s Tokyo Citizens Day. Though not a public holiday – i.e. you don’t get the day off work – this special day was established in 1952 to commemorate Tokyo’s transition into a proper city with its own mayor in 1898. Every year on this day, a host of attractions run by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government across the city, including museums, art galleries, zoos and aquariums, will open to the public for free.  Here’s the full list of attractions that offer free admission on October 1. Photo: Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo Museums and art galleries Edo-Tokyo Open-Air Architectural Museum Tokyo Photographic Art Museum (applicable only for these two exhibitions: TOP 30th Anniversary Thoughts of a Distant Window: Contemporary Japanese Photography vol. 22, and TOP 30th Anniversary Pedro Costa Innervisions) Museum of Contemporary Art, Tokyo (only applicable for the MOT Collection exhibition) Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum (only applicable for the Pleasure in Making: The Creative Spirit of DIY for Living exhibition) Photo: Crisfotolux/DreamstimeRikugien Gardens  The Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum garden Hamarikyu Gardens Kiyosumi Garden Koishikawa Korakuen Kyu Furukawa Gardens Kyu Iwasaki-tei Gardens Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden Mukojima Hyakkaen Rikugien Tonogayato Garden Photo: Tokyo Zoological Park SocietyFemale giant p

日常の一コマを描き、世界中の子どもから大人までを魅了しているアニメ『ブルーイ』。その人気キャラクターのブルーイとビンゴが「2025年日本国際博覧会（大阪・関西万博）」の「オーストラリア館」にやってくる。 会場では、2024年にアメリカで最も視聴された子ども向け番組となった本作の人気エピソードを毎日上映する。週末には、ブルーイと妹のビンゴに会えるグリーティングイベントも開催。子どもも大人も一緒に楽しめる「遊び心」をテーマにしたさまざまなアクティビティが用意されている。 11時と13時は「ブルーイ・オクロック（Bluey o’clock）」と呼ばれ、ステージで日本語吹替版『ブルーイ』が毎日上映される。さらに週末の11時の回の上映後には、ブルーイとビンゴがマスコット姿で登場。オーストラリアン・キャトル・ドッグのかわいい兄妹に会える、ファミリー必見のイベントだ。 ブルーイたちがアヒル型のケーキ作りに挑戦する人気エピソード「ダックケーキ」にちなんだ体験型イベントに参加したり、ペーパークラフトやブルーイの耳をかたどったグッズを持ち帰ったりできるのもうれしい。 アニメのかわいらしい世界にとどまらず、オーストラリア館では多彩なカルチャーを紹介。国際的に高く評価される弦楽四重奏団「アフィニティカルテット」による夜の演奏も必見だ。また、世界最古の管楽器とされるアボリジニの「ディジュリドゥ」とテクノロジーを融合させた「ディジュリボーン」を演奏するミュージシャンのチュプル（Tjupurru）の圧巻のステージも見逃せない。 さらに、非営利の映画制作団体「Bus Stop Films」による『太陽を追いかけて』をはじめとした上映プログラムもあり、見どころは尽きない。2025年10月13日（月曜・祝日）の閉幕まで会場で行われる多彩なイベントに引き続き注目したい。 関連記事 『大阪・関西万博、海外パビリオンで手にいれるべき土産8選』 『大阪・関西万博で見逃せない海外グルメ8選』 『2025年大阪・関西万博で行くべき海外パビリオン5選』

With Tokyo known for elusive pop-ups and record bars on wheels, you never know what makeshift retailers you might stumble upon when roaming the capital’s streets after dark. Our latest spot is Hanadorobo (‘Flower Thief’), a mysterious mobile flower shop that’s been popping up at random locations around the city lately. From what scraps of info we’ve been able to gather, the cart is a project run by a small collective of florists that goes by the same name and was established back in 2020. They specialise in floral arrangements for events, photoshoots and backstage jobs, but whatever blooms are left over they sell in the street stall. That’s why there isn’t any set schedule for the pop-up – nor is there a profit motive. Photo：Kisa Toyoshima路上出店の様子 The project is also about more than just selling flowers. When we caught up with the florist who was manning the makeshift stall in front of Yoyogi-Hachiman Station one summer night – and who wished to stay anonymous – they told us that they hope people in Japan would ‘enjoy flowers more in everyday life’, rather than only during cherry blossom season. They went on to explain that on their travels, such as while backpacking across Europe, they were struck by how commonplace flowers are in everyday life elsewhere. They were inspired by how many people were carrying bouquets while on the move, and by the number of flower vendors in the streets. ‘I hope [that through our activities] more people will think that flowers are beautiful, a

Kinchakuda Manjushage Park in Saitama prefecture’s Hidaka city is one of the best places near Tokyo to see red spider lilies, also known as higanbana or manjushage in Japanese. With about five million of these unique flowers expected to bloom around this time of year, the sprawling Saitama park will be bringing back its annual autumn flower festival from September 19. However, the warmer-than-usual weather this year delayed the growth and the blooming of the flowers, as such the festival has been extended until October 5. That’s perfect timing, as the red spider lilies are just beginning to sprout, with full bloom expected in late September. Photo: Kinchakuda Manjushage Park Aside from fields of beautiful scarlet red spider lilies, you’ll also find booths at the festival selling a variety of local food and drinks, such as roasted chestnuts, as well as souvenirs. Photo: Hidaka city As this is one of Japan's largest concentrations of red spider lilies, the organisers are expecting large crowds, especially on these dates: September 27-28 and October 4-5. As parking is limited, we recommend taking the train instead. It takes about 90 minutes from Ikebukuro Station to Koma Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro line; from there, it’s a 15-minute walk to the park.  Kinchakuda Manjushage Park is open from 7am to 5pm. Entry during the flowering period costs ¥500 per person (free for junior high school students and younger children). To all photographers and Instagrammers who’re planning

Wackadoo! Bluey, everyone’s favourite blue Aussie cattle dog, has landed at Expo 2025, where she’s serving as the star of the Australian Pavilion’s cultural programmes. Expect daily screenings of the beloved animated series – the most streamed children’s show last year in the US – plus live appearances on weekends, and plenty of playful activities celebrating the spirit of play and fun for little’uns and parents alike. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Australia at Expo (@australiaatexpo) Each day brings ‘Bluey o’clock’, with episodes of the eponymous show screened in Japanese on the pavilion stage from 11am and 1pm. On weekends after the 11am Bluey episode, Bluey and her little sister Bingo will make special mascot appearances – a must for families eager to meet the lovable sibling duo from Brisbane. You can also join in themed events inspired by popular episodes like Duck Cake, and take home Bluey giveaways from paper crafts to playful ears. Besides the cute animated action, the Australian Pavilion showcases a vibrant line-up of culture from Down Under, from nightly sets by the internationally acclaimed Affinity Quartet to Tjupurru’s electrifying fusion of traditional sounds and futuristic tech on the ‘Didjeribone’. There are also film screenings like Chase the Sun by social enterprise Bus Stop Films, and more. More from Time Out Osaka Expo 2025 just hit its most symbolic milestone yet Kyoto is hosting a Japanese Halloween with yokai mon

With just about a month to go before the curtains close on Expo 2025, the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition has announced a milestone perfectly tied to the event’s name: 20.25 million visitors. The symbolic number was reached on September 6, the same day the Expo welcomed its biggest crowd yet, with 200,000 people passing through the gates on Saturday alone. At a ceremony marking the achievement, Expo Secretary General Hiroyuki Ishige expressed heartfelt thanks to attendees who braved the still-brutal September heat to make their way to Yumeshima, the artificial island where the world’s fair is being held. The organisers have also announced commemorative digital merch for the special occasion, with a digital NFT stamp and an augmented reality photo frame that can be activated for selfies at preset locations near the East and West gates. These digital items can be collected until September 23 via the Virtual Expo app. (iOS/Android) The Expo will continue until October 13 – book your tickets now, and visit as early as you can to avoid the last-minute rush. Cheers to 20.25 million visitors! More from Time Out OsakaKyoto is hosting a Japanese Halloween with yokai monsters from traditional folkloreSee 6 Kyoto temples with moss gardens for ¥1,000 with this bookletOsaka Expo 2025 breaks even with 18 million tickets sold3 limited-time events you should not miss at the Osaka Expo this August5 things I learned about Japanese food at the Luxury Dining Series in Osaka

Only in Japan could you see a subway line teaming up with a global pop star. Running from September 8 to October 20, the ‘Oh! Ed! project’ celebrates the release of Ed Sheeran’s latest album Play by bringing a dose of pop – and pop culture – to one of the city’s deepest and noisiest metro lines. The unusual partnership comes down to a string of happy coincidences: the Oedo Line’s signature magenta happens to match the theme colour of Sheeran’s latest album, while the line’s circular ‘E’ logo could easily include a second letter ‘d’ to spell out ‘Ed.’ But above all, when you render the name of the man behind ‘Shape of You’ in katakana, what you get is of course ‘Edo’. In pun-tastic fashion, Warner Music Japan and the Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Transportation have decided to run with the wordplay, launching the cheekily titled ‘Oh(オー)!Ed(エド)!’ campaign. Photo: Tokyo Metropolitan GovernmentWin the clear file and shirt after completing the stamp rally Unsuspecting commuters and committed fans alike can expect far more than posters on train platforms. An entire eight-car Oedo line train will be turned into a rolling exhibition dedicated to Sheeran’s life, career and new album, with each carriage offering a different theme, from a retrospective of his discography and Japan tours to a personality quiz that matches you with your perfect track from Play (in Japanese) Alongside the train, there’s also a digital stamp rally across six stations via the Toei Transportation app (iOS/An