Shota Nagao

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 August 2026. 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

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 2026, 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 sensational Adachi Fireworks Festival (May 30) and the highly anticipated Sumida River Fireworks Festival (July 25). 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

From Shogun and shokunin to city pop and Pokémon, Japan’s already Godzilla-sized global cultural footprint is still growing – not least thanks to a hungry new generation of artists and artisans who aren’t content with competing domestically, instead setting their sights on capturing the hearts and feeds of the world from the get-go. Here are a few names you’re bound to hear more about very soon.

Alongside Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring, Kenny Scharf was one of the artists who helped define the New York art scene in the 1980s, captivating audiences with a psychedelic world full of anthropomorphic, organic forms. His distinctive character-based visual language, with hyper-vibrant, expressive cartoon faces, has been recognised as a precursor to many trends in 21st-century pop art. Scharf’s work can now be viewed in Tokyo, with Nanzuka Underground in Harajuku hosting the artist’s solo exhibition ‘Shimishimikao!’ until Saturday June 27. The exhibition centres on a new series of the same name, inspired by the Rorschach-esque phenomenon of seeing faces in blobs. The show also features works from the series Moodz, composed of expressive circular faces, and Dire Headlines, which incorporates newspaper clippings, among other works spanning Scharf’s nearly five-decades-long career. We spoke with Scharf during his visit to Tokyo to open the exhibition, quizzing the street art legend about the inspiration behind his new series and about how he stays driven after half a century at the forefront of the contemporary scene. First, what’s the meaning behind the title of the exhibition, ‘Shimishimikao!’? I love creating new words when I’m coming up with titles for my artwork and exhibitions. This new series is all about blobs, and when I heard the Japanese word for ‘blob’, shimi, I really liked the sound of it.   Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaKenny Scharf   Shimmy, in English, is the d

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: 12 best summer destinations in Japan

Located by the ocean only 45 minutes from Fukuoka Airport, Seven x Seven Itoshima is a retreat set against the backdrop of the tranquil natural environment in Itoshima, the Fukuoka region’s most in-demand beach destination. Newly renovated and reopened on April 1 2026, the hotel has been reborn as an even more elevated and relaxing getaway where guests can feel close to the surrounding mountains and sea through food, wellness offerings and activities. Reimagined with a ‘Sunset Beach Club’ theme, the hotel has updated its dining experiences, added a new sauna and pool, and much more. Here are three reasons why a stay at Seven x Seven Itoshima makes the most sense for your next visit to Kyushu.

タイムアウト東京 > トラベル > 日本で乗るべき観光列車7選 日本の鉄道は定刻通りの運行やスピードの速さで有名だが、あえて「ゆっくり進むこと」を目的とした列車もある。鉄道ファンや運行会社から「ジョイフルトレイン」と呼ばれる観光列車は、地域文化や工芸にインスパイアされた凝った内装、地元の食材を生かした食事、そしてパノラマウインドーから眺める絶景などを通じて、移動そのものを旅の「目的地」へと変えてくれる。 超豪華な寝室を備えたクルーズトレインから、田んぼや海岸線を走り抜ける魅力的なローカル線まで、日本で乗るべき観光列車を紹介する。 関連記事 『レトロで上質な内装にも注目、新観光列車「GRAN 天空」が運行開始』 瑞風 Photo: West Japan Railway Company 最大定員はわずか34人、10両編成で運行されるJR西日本の「瑞風（みずかぜ）」は、高級ホテルのような品格をたたえた特別な寝台列車であり、時代を超越した優雅な客車で安らぎのひとときを提供する。客室車両は6両のみで、1車両を丸ごと使ったスイートルームも完備。オールインクルーシブのレストランやラウンジも備えており、世界でも類を見ないほど独占感を誇る列車といえるだろう。 旅は京都から始まる。瀬戸内海に沿って本州と四国が交差する倉敷へと向かい、さらに日本海側の松江や鳥取といった都市を巡る。この「せとうち・山陰」コースでは、途中駅で自然や文化を深く味わえるガイド付きツアーが用意されており、駅では専用の「瑞風バス」が待機。鉄道ではアクセスできない見どころへ案内してくれる。 唯一の難点は、乗車まで待たされることだ。「瑞風」は現在、2026年9月分まで完売している。10月以降の出発分については、現在オンラインで予約を受け付けている。 詳細情報 雪月花 Photo: Echigo Tokimeki RailwayHigh deck observatory in car 1 妙高山と日本海の息をのむような絶景を望む「雪月花」は、日本の雪国である新潟を駆け抜ける。地域鉄道会社である「えちごトキめき鉄道」が運行するこの豪華列車は、通常、土・日曜日・祝日に上越妙高駅と糸魚川駅の間を1日2往復しています。車体の両側には、国内最大級となる高さ24メートルの大きな窓が広がり、パノラマの景色を存分に楽しめる。 車両から内装材に至るまで「オール新潟産」にこだわり、鉄道デザインの第一人者である川西康之が設計を手がけた。外装の金色のアクセントに燕三条の金属加工が用いられ、内装に新潟産の木材が使われるなど、随所に地元の職人技が光る。 雪月花は2両編成で、それぞれ異なるデザインが特徴。1号車は、ラウンジスタイルの座席やテーブルに「越後杉」をふんだんに使用し、温かく居心地の良い雰囲気を醸し出す。前方には自由に行き来できる展望デッキを配置。一方、2号車は地元産のブナ材を贅沢に使用した、より洗練されたモダンな空間を作り出し、ゆったりとした座席配置の食堂車のような造りになっている。 提供される料理は地元の食材を使用した、フレンチ・和食・洋食・中華から選べ、それぞれ3段重ねの木製の弁当箱で供される。例えば和食の「漁港直送、漁師の豪快コース」では、能生（のう）漁港から直送された新鮮な海の幸や、紅ズワイガニのちらし寿司など、鮮度抜群の味覚を堪能できる。約3時間の旅路で、美しい海岸線や山々の景色を眺めながら、至福の食事が楽しめるだろう。 詳細情報 越乃Shu＊Kura Photo: East Japan Railway

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 

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

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

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

Head over to Harumi Wharf Park this summer for a spectacular bon odori dance celebration by the bay. The full-fledged summer spectacle by the waterfront is happening over two days, on July 11 and 12, with plenty of authentic bon odori songs to dance the night away. Expect to also see an impressive line-up of food and ennichi game stalls, with over 48 booths selling delicious matsuri grub such as yakisoba, wagyu offal stew, kebabs, gelato and more. While the festival itself starts from 4pm, dancing begins later in the evening, running from 6.30pm to 8.30pm daily.

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 10 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 11 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 12, 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 app

Exploring the themes of transformation and passage, Franco-Guinean-Senegalese artist Ousmane Bâ returns to Ultrasupernew Kura Gallery in Higashi from May 23 to June 19 with ‘Dugg ci dox’. This Wolof phrase, meaning ‘to dive in water’, is the main theme in Bâ’s works. They feature silhouette figures taking a plunge into the water, forever suspended between two worlds. The artist’s introspective works focus on all those who dive, such as the Ama divers in Japan and the divers he saw in Senegal. These beings in transformation, ready to dive into one’s dreams, fears and memories, resurface anew, carrying a different energy and vision. 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.

Experience a slice of Paris in Tokyo at Paris Saint-Germain’s limited-time pop-up, taking over Shibuya from May 2 to May 5. Spanning multiple floors, the self-proclaimed 'Paris' is an immersive space packed with attractions, from a first-floor playground with retro Sega arcade games and a mini indoor one-on-one football pitch, to a second-floor café serving speciality coffee by La Brûlerie Belleville alongside fresh pastries from Maison Kayser. Among the highlights are displays of the club’s authentic trophies, as well as appearances by football legend Jay-Jay Okocha and PSG handball player Luc Abalo. Make your way up to the third floor for a gastronomy experience led by chefs from Paris’s Le Bistrot Paul Bert, offering a menu that blends French and Japanese flavours. The concept store is another key draw, stocked with official club merch and exclusive pieces created in collaboration with Japanese brands such as Edfice and artists including Nakakisan, BEY and French graphic artist Jean Jullien. With daily DJ sets from 6pm to 9pm, the pop-up delivers a lively, Parisian-inspired atmosphere right in the heart of Shibuya.

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.

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.

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?

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.

We first reported in January that Kanazawa Yokujo, a 50-year-old neighbourhood sento in Higashi-Shinjuku, would be reborn as an elevated public bathhouse with modern amenities such as a full-fledged sauna, a craft beer taproom and a DJ booth. After a slight delay, the wait is finally over, with the grand opening set for Tuesday July 7. Here's a look inside. Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaKoganeyu Shinjuku The renovation and reopening are the work of the masterminds behind the transformation of Kinshicho’s Koganeyu, a humble traditional sento that in 2020 was turned into a modern, tattoo-friendly communal bathhouse. Koganeyu Shinjuku’s branding is overseen by Hiroko Takahashi, who also led the rebranding of the original Koganeyu, while the interior design is by Yuko Nagayama, whose recent projects include the Osaka Women's Pavilion at Expo 2025 and Tokyu Kabukicho Tower. Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaSauna area, cold plunge pool and outdoor relaxation area Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaKoganeyu Shinjuku One of the highlights of the reborn bathhouse is the newly installed sauna, aptly named The Cave. Open the bright orange door set into the mosaic tile mural in the bathing area to step into an otherworldly steam room reminiscent of a hidden grotto. Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaAutomatic löyly sauna room Built from lava rock, the sauna features automatic löyly control and soft, dim lighting for a deeply therapeutic experience. It's accompanied by a bubbling 'beauty bath' cold plunge and a relaxation area w

Summer means fireworks in Japan, and there are plenty of spectacular displays to enjoy in and around Tokyo. One of the most impressive fireworks festivals is at Kawaguchiko, the largest of the Fuji Five Lakes, in Yamanashi prefecture. The Kawaguchiko Kojo Matsuri summer festival takes place on Wednesday August 5 from 7.45pm, with fireworks launched from the middle of the lake between the eastern shore and Kawaguchiko-ohashi Bridge. Gigantic starmines and musical starmines will not only be reflected on the water’s surface but also synchronised to music. The whole show will be 55 minutes long.  Photo: G photo/Photo-AC For an up-close view, head to Oike Park or either one of these two shores – Funatsuhama and Hirahama near Rinsaku Park. At both venues, dozens of food stalls will line the street, selling typical festival grub. Pro tip: if it’s a clear night, make a beeline for the other side of the lake, around Nagasaki Park or Oishi Park. Here you’ll have an uninterrupted view of the fireworks, with the towering silhouette of Mt Fuji in the background. Photo: Fujikawaguchiko Tourist Information You can reach Kawaguchiko in about one hour and 40 minutes by highway bus from Shinjuku Station. Alternatively, take the JR Chuo Line Limited Express from Shinjuku to Otsuki Station and change to the Fujikyuko Line for Kawaguchiko, which takes around two hours and ten minutes in total. Note that the festival will be cancelled in case of stormy weather. This article was originally publ

Calling all Cremia fans: super silky, rich and creamy Cremia cones are being handed out for free this weekend from July 3 to July 5. Coinciding with Japan’s ‘Soft Cream Day’ on July 3, ice cream manufacturer Nissei is hosting the three-day pop-up at ZeroBase Shibuya. The pop-up will feature exhibits where visitors can learn about the history and culture of soft-serve ice cream. Those who answer a simple quiz correctly will receive samples of three Cremia varieties: the original soft serve in its signature langue de chat cone, plus the matcha-flavoured 'Cremia the Matcha' and the chocolate 'Cremia the Chocolat', the latter two served in mini cups. What's more, you can snap a photo at the pop-up and share it on social media with the hashtag #SoftServeIceCreamDay to receive a free Cremia cone sticker.  Photo: Nissei Co., Ltd.Original stickers Cremia cones elevate the soft-serve experience with their velvety, luxurious texture, achieved by carefully blending fresh cream and raw milk from Hokkaido. The flavour is fine-tuned using a blend of four types of sugar selected from 20 varieties. The signature langue de chat cone completes the experience, offering a crisp texture that melts delicately in your mouth. More from Time Out Tokyo A cute Kuromi-themed afternoon tea experience comes to Tokyo and six other cities in Japan Pompompurin takes the crown for 2026’s most popular Sanrio character with over 7 million votes 10 art exhibitions to see in Tokyo this summer 5 of the best gig

Sanrio announced the results of its 2026 Character Ranking this weekend, at the Sanrio Character Awards held in Pacifico Yokohama. In its 41st edition, the competition to determine the Sanrio character of the year set a new record with over 70 million votes cast from around the world, underscoring the Tokyo-based mascot house’s global popularity among fans. Photo: Sanrio Co., Ltd.Pompompurin at No. 1 This year’s top-ranked character is Pompompurin, who fittingly is also celebrating his 30th anniversary. His win in this milestone year adds to a long history of success in the rankings: the pudding dog has previously taken first place in 1997, 2015, 2016 and 2025. Pompompurin, who won the top spot with a whopping 7.1 million votes, is followed by Cinnamoroll, who garnered 6 million votes. The top three was a dogs-only affair, with Pochacco coming in third with 3 million votes. Kuromi and Hello Kitty landed 4th and 5th respectively, rounding out the top 5. Compared with the 2024 results, Pekkle and My Sweet Piano saw the biggest improvement in polling, rising from 10th to 6th and 18th to 13th, respectively. Starting from September 2026, stage shows featuring the top 10 characters from this year’s ranking will be held as part of a thank-you tour at 12 venues nationwide. To recap, this year's Top Ten characters are: 1. Pompompurin2. Cinnamoroll3. Pochacco4. Kuromi5. Hello Kitty6. Pekkle7. My Melody 8. Tuxedosam9. Hangyodon 10. Little Twin Stars See the full ranking of all 90 char

新宿の靖国通りにあるジャズ喫茶・バー「新宿DUG」（以下、DUG）が、2026年6月27日に閉店する。入居する建物の老朽化によるビル解体に伴うもので、同店は65年にわたる歴史にまもなく幕を下ろす。 Photo: Manabu Morooka2026年6月27日営業最終日のDUGにて 4月1日に閉店の知らせがSNSで公開されてから、別れを惜しむ人々が連日店を訪れている。 なお最終日は20時から無観客配信ライブを開催。須永辰緒や菊地成孔、グレース・マーヤが出演する。 Photo: Manabu MorookaStore interior taken on closing day Photo: Manabu MorookaStore interior taken on closing day 同店のルーツは、1961年に誕生した「DIG」にさかのぼる。その後移転を重ね、2000年からは地下2階にある現在の場所で営業を続けてきた。ジャズ写真家でもあった中平穂積が創業し、新宿のジャズ文化を象徴する店の一つとして発展してきた歩みを持つ。店内には中平が撮影した、マイルス・デイヴィス（Miles Davis）やジョン・コルトレーン（John Coltrane）らといったレジェンドたちが静かに店内を見守る。 Photo: Manabu MorookaStore interior taken on closing day 店のロゴは、和田誠がデザイン。寺山修司や中上健次といった作家が訪れ、上京したばかりのタモリが通っていたなど、さまざまな有名人・ジャズマンたちのエピソードに彩られている。村上春樹の『ノルウェーの森』にも登場し、村上ファンの聖地の一つでもあった。 Photo: Manabu MorookaStore interior taken on closing day Photo: Manabu MorookaStore interior taken on closing day 閉店を前にして、タイムアウト東京では、2007年に中平から店を継ぎ、代表兼マスターを務める中平塁にインタビューした。 ―新宿の中心で50年以上営業を続けてこられたDUGが閉店を迎える今の気持ちを聞かせください。 正直、ビル解体の知らせを突然受け、対応に追われる日々でした。建築家の岩淵活輝氏のデザインとお客さまと創り上げた空間がなくなってしまうのは、とても残念でなりません。国内外の著名なミュージシャンがふらっと立ち寄ってくれて、「おー、塁元気！？」と、陽気な笑顔と声に、ポジティブな風が一瞬で吹く最高の場所でした。 ―近年の訪日観光客の増加に伴い、客層にはどのような変化がありましたか。 近年は、特に若い年代層も増えています。「聴く」ことに特化した「ジャズ喫茶」文化。これが日本独自の最大の特徴です。アメリカでジャズは、「踊る場所」や「お酒を飲む場所」でしたが、日本では「静かに音楽と向き合う場所」として発展しました。 巨大なスピーカーと膨大なレコード盤。私語厳禁で、コーヒー1杯で何時間も名盤に耳を傾ける。このような鑑賞スタイルは海外からは珍しく思われていたようです。 一巡して今は、もっと軽やかで自由なもの。難しい理屈を抜きにして、コーヒーの香りのように「日常を少しだけ贅沢にするスパイス」として、若い世代にも自然に受け入れられてきている気がします。ジャズという音楽に対する向き合い方が変化したというよりは、ようやく今の若者の暮らしに、いい意味で「馴染んだ」のだと

Way back in the 1960s and early ’70s, Shinjuku was sprinkled with jazz-focused coffee shops, affectionately known as jazz kissa. In these establishments, jazz wasn’t just background music, but the main draw and focus. These cafés gave rise to the uniquely Japanese tradition of slowly sipping coffee or drinking cocktails in a ‘listening room’ for hours on end, but they gradually began to fade as home audio systems became more accessible. Photo: Manabu MorookaStore interior taken on closing day However, thanks to the support of dedicated fans, some celebrated names from that bygone era have stuck around – including Dug (formerly Dig). Unfortunately, this café too will now close, with the final chapter in the café’s 65-year history being written on June 27. Since the announcement of the closure was made on social media on April 1, jazz aficionados have been visiting the café daily to say goodbye. Photo: Manabu MorookaStore interior taken on closing day Dug’s roots can be traced back to Dig, a jazz café that opened in 1961 in a different part of Shinjuku, near the now-closed Alta building. Founded by jazz-artist photographer Hozumi Nakadaira, Dug’s interior is decorated with photographs taken by Nakadaira of legends such as Miles Davis and John Coltrane; luxurious assets that quietly watch over the brick basement interior. Photo: Manabu MorookaStore interior taken on closing day As a haunt for intellectuals such as Shuji Terayama, Kenji Nakagami and Tamori, who was a regula

Back for its fifth edition, Tokyo Streets X has become a prominent platform for both established creatives and emerging artists, creating an environment where different disciplines and perspectives can exist side by side. Ahead of the exhibition, which began on Tuesday and is going on at WPÜ Gallery Shinjuku until Sunday June 28, we spoke with some of the participating artists about their work, how Tokyo has shaped their creative practice, and what visitors can expect from the show. Photo: Keisuke TanigawaScene from a previously held event in April Lord K2 Photo: Lord K2Lord K2 London-born visual artist and photographer Lord K2 has called Tokyo home for several years. His work often captures overlooked details and moments, but he says residing in Japan has shifted his focus beyond the image itself. ‘Living in Tokyo has made me much more aware of the importance of craftsmanship, presentation and refinement,’ he explains. The city’s meticulous attention to detail – from architecture and design to the way people approach their work – has encouraged him to think more carefully about how an artwork is finished and experienced. Photo: Lord K2Winning shot from the Time Out Capture Bangkok contest Lord K2’s approach to photography has evolved from instinctive image-making to a more considered practice. While he was once motivated by the thrill of discovering new subjects and fleeting moments, he now places greater emphasis on the ideas and perspectives each photograph conveys.

Shoving suitcases down the aisle, reclining your seat ever so slightly to avoid annoying the passenger behind you, asking fellow travellers to duck down so you can snap a photo of Mt Fuji – standard-class shinkansen travel isn't exactly a luxury experience. But things are about to change – soon. JR Central and JR West, operators of the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen lines, which run between Tokyo and Osaka and Osaka and Hakata respectively, have announced that fully private compartments are finally coming to the bullet train, as we first reported in January. While details such as pricing and amenities were still under wraps when we first brought you the news, the operators have now unveiled more information. Positioned above the Green Car, which serves as the premium economy or business-class equivalent on the bullet train, the new 'Supreme Class' cabins, set to be introduced in Cars 7 and 10 of the latest N700S trainsets, will feature lockable doors, plush reclining seats with leg rests, individual lighting and climate controls, state-of-the-art speakers and more. Photo: JR CentralSupreme Class Cabin seat when fully reclined The most exclusive option is the Supreme Class Cabin, available in either a single-seat configuration (Car 10) or a two-seat layout (Car 7, with an additional sofa seat) from October 1. Each cabin comes with an auto-locking door that opens with a registered transit IC card, a (much needed) dedicated luggage storage area, reclining seats with ample lumbar

Tokyo is in the midst of a wave of high-profile closures, from Hands in Shibuya to Ikea in Harajuku and Shinjuku. But as old landmarks make way for new arrivals, two global giants are preparing to stake their claim on one of the city’s most coveted corners. Both Google and Korea’s Hyundai Department Store have chosen Tokyo as host of their first flagship stores outside their home countries, and there’s hardly a more fitting location for the duo than the Harajuku-Omotesando intersection, one of the city’s most prestigious retail addresses. Neither brand is entering the market blindly. Hyundai has tested the waters through pop-up stores at Shibuya Parco, while Google has built a strong following in Japan despite operating solely through its online store. The tech giant now holds the country’s second-largest smartphone market share behind Apple – an impressive feat given Apple’s extensive physical and online retail presence. Photo: Shota NagaoStore entrance Located on the ground floor of the Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Omokado complex, Google Store Omotesando will offer a full line-up of Google and partner-brand products, including Pixel smartphones, Google Nest smart-home devices and third-party accessories. Shoppers will also be able to try Google’s latest AI-powered features, receive in-person support and access on-site Google Pixel repair services. Climb three floors from Omokado’s mesmerising mirrored portal entrance to find the Hyundai department store, set to open in July 20

Summer is a great time to be in Tokyo, with an array of festivals and fireworks displays taking place across the city. But there are also more traditional events happening, like the Toro Nagashi (floating lantern) nighttime festival at Chidorigafuchi Moat along the fringe of the Imperial Palace grounds. This popular light-up spectacle will take place again in 2026 on July 22 and 23 after sundown. Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaScene from a previously held event Over the course of two evenings, you can witness 2,000 beautiful paper lanterns floating on the water. The festival was first held in 1958 to comfort people after World War II. Photo: Chiyoda City Tourism Association You can just turn up and enjoy the sight for free. Or you could contribute to the spectacle by releasing your own lantern to the water. You can use the lantern to write down your hopes, dreams or prayers.  Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaScene from a previously held event One way to immerse yourself in the event is to hop on a rowboat and send your lantern out onto the water while being surrounded by thousands of glowing lanterns. Participation is limited to just 60 groups per day and is determined by a lottery system, with registration open until June 16. Photo: Chiyoda City Tourism Association You can still design a lantern on the day of the event, even without a boat. As lantern supplies are limited, be sure to make a reservation for a lantern in advance online, which costs ¥2,000. You can pick up the lantern on t

After battering Okinawa with strong winds and torrential rain, severe tropical storm Jangmi is moving north and could disrupt rail and air services in the Tokyo region from the morning through to around noon on Wednesday June 3. The storm has already caused flight cancellations in Okinawa and across parts of Kyushu and Shikoku, and airlines are urging travellers to check the latest updates on their websites, as further delays and cancellations remain possible depending on Jangmi’s path. Around Tokyo, JR East has announced service suspensions for Wednesday on several lines, including the Tokaido Line (between Odawara and Atami stations), the Shonan-Shinjuku Line (between Shinjuku and Odawara until 4pm), the Ome Line (between Ome and Okutama stations until 8pm), and the Chuo Line (between Takao and Kobuchizawa stations until 3pm), among others. While widespread service suspensions haven’t been announced for the Tokaido Shinkansen nor for flights to and from Haneda and Narita airports, you will want to check the latest status updates on their respective websites before heading out. Updates for Japan Airlines can be found here and for ANA here. To see how you can prepare for a typhoon, visit our guide here. More from Time Out TokyoThe Pokémon Cafe in Tokyo's Nihonbashi is reopening this monthHere’s what to expect at the revamped Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi5 of the best gigs to catch in Tokyo this June5 art exhibitions you shouldn’t miss in Tokyo this JuneTakashi Murak

Fireworks season is here in Tokyo, whether it feels like it or not. Following last week’s Star Island display in Odaiba, Tokyoites are in for another pyrotechnic spectacle before the gloomy tsuyu (rainy season) begins. The Adachi Fireworks will light up the skies above the Arakawa River between Kitasenju and Umejima stations on May 30. Let’s get the biggest concern out of the way first. With the past two editions cancelled due to adverse weather, checking the forecast is essential when planning your visit. The latest forecast for Adachi ward on Saturday May 30 predicts mostly clear skies with only a few afternoon clouds. According to TBS, there is also no forecast of cold air flowing in from above, meaning the likelihood of severe thunderstorms developing is low. Light southerly winds are expected, but they are unlikely to build into the strong gusts that led to last year’s cancellation.  If anything can help bring this fireworks show to fruition, it might be the teru teru bozu dolls now appearing around the neighbourhood. Local businesses such as Lumine Kita-Senju are displaying the traditional charms, believed to ward off rain and bring sunshine. ／5/30（土）『足立の花火』晴天祈願！＼直近2年間中止となってしまった #足立の花火 の成功を願い、#ルミネ北千住 の3階インフォメーションに #てるてる坊主 を飾っていただいています！悲願の花火開催に、皆さんもご協力お願いします✨【#てるてる坊主目撃情報 】があれば、また紹介するかも？ pic.twitter.com/okvxjGqpKX — 足立区役所 (@adachi_city) May 28, 2026 Now that weather concerns are mostly out of the way, here’s our recommendation for where to watch the massive 300-metre-