Shota Nagao

The days may be getting shorter and colder, but even so, Tokyo doesn't turn into a dark and desolate place at this time of year. In fact, from autumn to winter in the city, millions of colourful LED lights are wrapped around trees and buildings, turning Tokyo into a sparkling wonderland. Illuminations, as they’re usually known here, are big in Japan, but Tokyo’s are some of the biggest and the best. We've listed our top picks of where to admire these light displays, which are, of course, best enjoyed in good company. So layer up, grab your scarf, and head out to see Tokyo at its brightest and festive best. It’s gonna be lit. RECOMMENDED: the most beautiful winter destinations across Japan

As autumn deepens and the leaves reach their peak colours in late November, a host of illumination events take place across Tokyo’s public parks and gardens. These include special evening openings at spots that are usually closed to visitors after dark. According to the latest autumn-leaves forecast announced in early November, red momiji maple leaves and yellow ginkgo leaves are expected to reach peak colours in Tokyo on November 30 and 29, respectively. So pack a jacket and make the most of this fleeting seasonal spectacle. RECOMMENDED: Looking for more things to do this season? Here are the most beautiful autumn destinations across Japan

Japan has issued its first autumn leaves forecast of the year, and there’s already a hint of the season in the air – so now is arguably the best time to enjoy a leisurely evening out in the open. Tokyo is gearing up to host a whole lot of post-sunset festivals over the next month, so you’ll want to take this opportunity to make full use of those warm and pleasant times after dusk. Our top picks include everything from outdoor cinema screenings and late-night art shows to fireworks and autumn drink menus, along with a host of traditional shrine events to go along with the tsukimi moon-viewing season. RECOMMENDED: Looking to get out of the city over the Silver Week holidays? Check out our 15 favourite day trips for a weekend getaway from Tokyo.

Halloween has come a long way from its origins in ancient Celtic harvest festivals. These days it's more about looking as OTT as possible, a custom that was popularised in the US in the early 1900s. In Japan, too, there is none of the doom and gloom of the holiday's historical association with death, which may have something to do with the fact that the local celebration first made waves at Tokyo Disneyland. We're looking forward to a series of Halloween events on October 31, as well as the days leading up to it. Whatever you decide, don't let your costume go to waste – dress up for some of Tokyo's most spectacular Halloween parties. RECOMMENDED: 6 best Halloween events at theme parks in Japan

Celebrated in Tokyo since the latter part of the Edo era, the Tori no Ichi festival is a sure sign that winter is just around the corner. Observed in order to pray for wealth and good fortune for the year ahead, it is held every November on the days of the rooster (tori, one of the twelve signs of the Chinese zodiac). There are usually two or three of these days in a typical year. In 2026, it’s on November 7 and 19. Said to have originated at Asakusa's Otori Shrine and the nearby Juzaisan Chokokuji temple, the festival is now held at rooster-related shrines and temples all over Tokyo. These are our picks of the most visit-worthy Tori no Ichi events in the capital, all of which have a warm atmosphere and countless stalls selling traditional kumade (a colourfully decorated, traditional bamboo rake), which are an essential part of any Tori no Ichi celebration. RECOMMENDED: The best parks, gardens and streets to see the autumn leaves in Tokyo

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

Japan embraces Halloween like nowhere else, turning October into a month-long opportunity to feast on pumpkin treats and dress up like your favourite characters. Costume parties, parades and Halloween-themed afternoon teas are just some of the great ways to celebrate this holiday. You could also visit theme parks around Japan, most of which are putting on special decorations and events befitting the season of ghosts, ghouls and zombies. From Disneyland and Sanrio Puroland in Tokyo to Osaka’s Universal Studios Japan, here are the theme parks where you can get into the spooky spirit with Halloween-inspired treats, attractions and events this autumn. RECOMMENDED: 14 most beautiful autumn destinations in Japan

One of Japan’s largest art festivals, the cross-disciplinary Meet Your Art Festival is returning to the waterfront district of Tennozu this October for its fifth edition – and this year it’s bigger than ever. The four-day event brings together more than 150 artists for exhibitions, art fairs, live performances, outdoor markets and more, with a particular focus on everything new and emerging in the culture. Taking place from October 9 to 12, the festival takes over the neighbourhood surrounding Tennozu Canal, with programmes spread across multiple Terrada Warehouse venues and the picturesque canalside boardwalk. There’s plenty to see, of course, but also plenty of opportunity to wander between exhibitions, markets, gigs and food stalls at your own pace. Here are five things we’re looking forward to discovering at this year’s Meet Your Art Festival.

Tokyoites are in for a real autumn treat over the upcoming weekend, as this year's Silver Week of national holidays is longer than usual, running from September 19 through September 23. The special five-day weekend is set to be packed with events and happenings around the city. For everyone spending Silver Week in Tokyo, we’ve rounded up the best events happening in and around the capital, including food festivals, outdoor cinemas, art exhibitions, Oktoberfests and more. Looking for more autumnal inspo? Why not take a day trip out of the city or visit one of these nearby art destinations? RECOMMENDED: 88 things to do in Tokyo

This list is from 2025. Our latest ranking for 2026 is live here. 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 al

Nestled amid the lush landscape of the Nasu Highlands, Risonare Nasu is an agritourism resort where guests can experience the charms of the region through farming, food and nature. Despite being just around an hour from central Tokyo by bullet train, the resort offers a refreshing escape from the city, with opportunities to reconnect with nature and enjoy dishes made with local meat, fish, vegetables and other produce. Here are three experiences that make a stay at Risonare Nasu especially memorable.

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 Itabashi Fireworks Festival (August 1) 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

This autumn, 13 artists are coming together at Tennozu’s What Cafe to showcase and sell works that reinterpret Japanese traditional culture, techniques and materials through contemporary artistic perspectives. The centrepiece of the exhibition is Ontakkyu, a collaborative installation created by guest artists in partnership with Miyamoto Unosuke Shoten. Offering a playful new interpretation of traditional Japanese matsuri festivals, the work reimagines table tennis, traditionally enjoyed as a sport, as a fictional Shinto ritual. Tables, rackets and balls are transformed from sporting equipment into ceremonial objects, with the installation also featuring a space designed for this imaginary festival. Founded in 1861, Miyamoto Unosuke Shoten has spent more than 160 years manufacturing and selling traditional festival equipment, including portable mikoshi shrines, taiko drums, massive dashi floats and lion dance costumes. For this exhibition, the company joins forces with the participating artists to explore Japanese traditions, craftsmanship and materials through fresh interpretations. Once you’ve had your fill of art, settle in with a coffee or lunch, as What Cafe offers a selection of caffeinated drinks and meals in a relaxed, artful atmosphere. It’s a great spot to discover Tokyo’s grassroots art scene while taking a break – or even buying a piece for yourself.

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. Details for 2026 are to be announced in November.

Make the trek to Musashi-Kyuryo National Government Park – also known as Shrinrin Park – in Saitama this October for a Halloween-themed illumination, held on weekends and public holidays until October 31. Over half a million lights will glow in spooky purples and champagne gold, while Halloween decorations and artworks like Jack-o’-Lanterns and ghosts add to the eerie atmosphere. Dress up in your favourite costume and enjoy a child-friendly castle-themed illumination show, or munch on Jack-o’-Lantern meat pizza at the central restaurant. The botanical garden is also hosting the ‘Botanical Rhythm Session’, a dazzling display of cascading LED lights and sounds, featuring the mischievous forest witch. Although it’s a bit of a trek from central Tokyo, you can reach Shinrinkoen Station in about an hour via the Tobu Tojo Line from Ikebukuro. On event days, a special night shuttle bus runs between the station and the park from 5pm to 8.35pm. The event will be cancelled in the event of rain. Be sure to check the park's announcement page for the latest updates before heading out.

The force behind smash-hit titles including Chainsaw Man and Jujutsu Kaisen, Japanese animation studio Mappa is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year. To mark the milestone, the company is hosting its largest-ever exhibition from September 16, bringing together work from 23 titles at the newly opened Yurakucho Museum. The exhibition features original drawings, large-scale sets and video projections that immerse visitors in the worlds of Mappa shows and films such as Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc, Attack on Titan: Final Season, Jujutsu Kaisen and more. At the Chainsaw Man exhibition area, you can feast your eyes on exclusive production materials, including drawings that follow the story of The Movie: Reze Arc, from Denji and Reze’s first encounter and the explosive battle between Chainsaw Man and Bomb to the conclusion of their story. Don’t miss the illuminated life-size figure of Bomb, which is being unveiled for the first time. The Attack on Titan: Final Season zone features original drawings for key scenes, displays explaining the production process, and original hand-drawn watercolour artwork of the symbolic hill from the story’s ending. The Jujutsu Kaisen area revisits some of the series’ most iconic battle scenes and memorable moments. Production materials are exhibited in the first half of this zone, including original drawings from Season 1 and Jujutsu Kaisen 0, while the second half features materials from Season 2, Hidden Inventory / Premature Death, Shibuy

Tennozu’s cross-disciplinary Meet Your Art festival is returning this October for the fifth time, but on an expanded scale and with a specific focus on new and emerging cultural phenomena. As one of Tokyo’s largest art festivals, it features over 150 promising artists, alongside exhibitions, art fairs, live performances, outdoor markets and more. Spanning four days from October 9 to October 12, the festival takes over the entire neighbourhood around the Tennozu Canal, with events taking place across multiple Terrada Warehouse venues as well as the picturesque canalside boardwalk. The main exhibition, titled ‘Reflux: Signs of Resurgence’, explores subtle changes, sensations and ‘signs’ emerging in contemporary society, as curated by artistic director Mirai Moriyama and curators Yama Yoshida and Kentaro Watanabe. Expect works by the likes of avant-garde conceptual art group Ideal Copy, Evala, Michiko Tsuda, Osamu Tezuka and more at Warehouse Terrada G1-5F. Alongside the exhibition, there are multiple fairs and markets where you can purchase art. ‘Meet Your Artists’ and ‘Co-Crossover’ both feature over 40 artists, ranging from established names to emerging artists. These are taking place at Warehouse Terrada B&C Hall and Warehouse Terrada D Hall, respectively. Beyond the exhibitions and art fairs, the festival features live music and DJ sets along the canal, as well as the Super Art & Craft Market, co-produced with Beams Creative, which brings together more than 80 shops and cre

Art gallery Ultrasupernew Kura in Higashi is hosting a new exhibition featuring works by artist and illustrator Danilo Kato. Born in Brazil and raised in Japan, Kato’s work reflects the strong influence of both cultures. The exhibition, on display from August 28 to September 25, is a collection of works inspired by a ‘thousand shapes of fantastic creatures spread unchecked in a universe from another dimension,’ creating a dreamlike experience where thoughts, sentiments and memories take on physical form. 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.

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.

The ever more ubiquitous consumer drone, gimbal and action camera brand DJI has made its way into Japan’s mainstream with its first-ever concept store in the country. Opened in Tokyo on October 31, the store spans two floors in the heart of the Omotesando-Aoyama area, with a broad line-up of products on display. 【DJIコンセプトストア 東京表参道 グランドオープン🎊】 本日10月31日（土）、いよいよオープン！ 開店初日の様子を、動画でお届けします🎥 テープカットセレモニーから、多くのお客様で賑わう店内、フライトケージでのドローンのテストフライトまで。 オープン当日の熱気を、ぜひ動画でご覧ください！ ご来店いただいた皆さま、誠にありがとうございました。 DJIの製品を見て、触れて、体験できる新たな拠点として、これからもさまざまな製品体験やイベントをお届けしてまいります。 【明日11月1日（日）のイベント】 オープン記念ルーレットを開催！ ・開催時間：11:00～ ・参加人数：先着150名様 ・整列開始：10:30より順次ご案内 明日も皆さまのご来店を心よりお待ちしております！ 【店舗・アクセス情報】 📍 DJIコンセプトストア 東京表参道 〒150-0001 東京都渋谷区神宮前5-51-8 ラ・ポルト青山 1F・2F 🚃 東京メトロ銀座線・千代田線・半蔵門線 「表参道駅」B2出口より徒歩4分 — DJI JAPAN (@DJIJAPAN) October 31, 2026 Visitors can get hands-on with DJI’s latest aerial photography drones at the in-store flight cage, or switch on the handheld cameras and gimbals to try filming for themselves. Upstairs, the Hasselblad area offers a more premium experience, complete with a lounge and consultation booth for expert advice and support. There’s also a print gallery showcasing images captured with Hasselblad’s medium-format digital cameras, highlighting their impressive tonal range and fine detail. For those feeling lost, specialist staff are on hand across both floors to help with purchases and product support, with assistance available in Japanese, English and Chinese. Whether you’re looking to

An extra day off after a long Monday is always welcome, but the next national holiday falling on Tuesday November 3 comes with an extra perk. Established in 1945, this day is earmarked as Japan’s Culture Day to celebrate and appreciate the arts. It's a time when events, exhibitions and museum visits become a communal affair, with friends and families spending quality time together, revelling in the rich cultural tapestry of the nation. As such, in the spirit of this holiday, many museums and local galleries in Tokyo – and across Japan – have graciously waived their entry fees on this day. In this guide, we highlight the most prominent institutions participating in this complimentary admission day, along with the exhibitions you won’t want to miss.  Photo: The National Museum of Western Art The National Museum of Western Art Established in 1959, Japan's National Museum of Western Art has a vast permanent collection spanning pre-18th-century works to early 20th-century French paintings. There are works by the great masters, including Monet, Van Gogh and Picasso, tracing Western art's evolution from the Renaissance to modern expression. On November 3, two special exhibitions will be on view: ‘Turner: Painting the Sublime, in Dialogue with Contemporary Art’ and ‘Picturing the Theater: From Delacroix and Daumier to Toulouse-Lautrec and Klinger’. Note that only the latter exhibition offers free admission. Entry to the permanent collection is free on Culture Day. Tokyo National M

Here’s your chance to get a glimpse of the Akasaka Palace after dark: the grand Meiji-era (1868-1912) residence opens its doors for a special two-day illumination event on November 21 and 22. Designated a National Treasure, the building in Yotsuya also known as the State Guesthouse is Japan’s only neo-baroque-style palace, making it a striking sight even in daylight. On this special occasion, visitors can explore the main building and front garden until 8pm, three hours later than the usual 5pm closing time. When illuminated after dusk, the palace’s elaborate façade takes on a warm golden glow against the evening sky. It’s a rare opportunity to admire this historic landmark in a different light, with the grand pavilion looking almost like something out of a storybook. The evening offers more than architecture, too. On Sunday November 22, the front garden will host live music in front of the palace’s main entrance, with performances scheduled for 4pm and 7pm. Each set will run about 20 minutes, adding further to the atmosphere. The musicians set to perform on stage are operatic soprano singer Norie Suzuki and harpist Tomoyuki Asakawa. View this post on Instagram A post shared by 迎賓館赤坂離宮 (@akasaka_geihinkan) Meanwhile, the cobblestone square in front of the palace is hosting a picturesque ‘Garden Café’, an open-air pop-up known for its afternoon tea service and exclusive Japanese black teas. The café operates until 7.30pm during the late-opening days, and un

After seven years away, international art collective teamLab is returning to the Fukuoka Castle Ruins with a new edition of its immersive nighttime exhibition. ‘Digitized Fukuoka Castle Ruins’ runs from October 30 2026 to January 11 2027. Set within Maizuru Park, the exhibition transforms the historic castle’s imposing stone walls, greenery and pathways into an ever-changing art space. Using the latest digital technologies, the installations on display respond to natural phenomena like wind and rain, as well as the movements of visitors, blurring the lines between art, nature and the people experiencing it. Highlights include Pillars of Constant Flux, a series of glowing pillars of light that shift in colour, shape and height in response to their surroundings, including changes in wind, rain and humidity. Photo: teamLab, Autonomous Resonating Life, 2017- © teamLab *Photo from a previous exhibition. Shot in real space. No AI or CGI.Autonomous Resonating Life Visitors can also immerse themselves in a sea of glowing ovoids at the Autonomous Resonating Life installation. When one of the egg-shaped elements is knocked over by an external force, such as wind, heavy rain or human contact, it shines brightly and emits a tone as it rights itself. Photo: teamLab, Walk, Walk, Walk - Fukuoka Castle Ruins, 2021- © teamLab *Photo from a previous exhibition. Shot in real space. No AI or CGI.Walk, Walk, Walk - Fukuoka Castle Ruins Making full use of one of the castle’s many stone

After last year’s breathtaking run, Asakusa’s popular projection mapping show returns this October and November with a dazzling showcase celebrating the iconic Sensoji Temple's history and culture. Running daily from October 30 to November 3, the free event by digital creative company Hitohata features illuminated projections and offers rare access to some of the temple’s cultural highlights. In 2026, the projection mapping displays will be bigger than ever before, with shows projected onto the south side of the Hozomon Gate, as well as the temple’s main hall, for the first time. Photo: Hitohata Inc.Sensoji Main Hall Photo: Hitohata Inc.Scene from a previously held event in 2025 The projections draw on the temple’s cultural treasures, including its large votive paintings, the auspicious ‘Kanbun Engi’ picture scroll and ukiyo-e prints associated with Sensoji. Each show lasts roughly six minutes, with different programmes projected alternatively onto the main hall and gate between 6pm and 9.30pm. A unique convergence between old and new, the free shows are sure to draw in huge crowds, so consider viewing them later in the evening. Photo: Hitohata Inc.Denboin Garden evening light-up taken in 2025 While you’re there, don’t miss the special all-day viewing of Denboin Garden, a Japanese garden usually closed off to the public but now brilliantly and colourfully illuminated. It’s open daily and tickets cost ¥2,300 in advance or ¥2,500 on the day; these are best booked online,

All Nippon Airways’ (ANA) ‘Chiikawa Jet’ had its maiden voyage from Haneda Airport on Monday as part of a collaboration with the still incredibly popular dark-cute franchise. Inspired by Japan’s four seasons, its livery features Chiikawa, Hachiware, Shisa and Kurimanju on the left side, and Usagi, Rakko, Momonga and Furuhonya on the right. If you’re lucky enough to spot the jet, test your fortune even further by looking for the tiny four-leaf clover on one of the aircraft’s sides. ✈️「ちいかわジェット」がいよいよ明日就航！✨ 羽田格納庫で「ちいかわジェット」を初公開！ちいかわ・ハチワレ・うさぎも来てくれました🍀 機体には、ちいかわをはじめとした８キャラクターが全面に描かれています☁️✨ 機内でもちいかわたちがデザインされた特別なヘッドレストカバーや紙コップで、みなさまをお迎えします✈️ 「ちいかわジェット」の記念すべき初便は、10月19日（月）、羽田発 長崎行き NH661便(JA609A)を予定しています💙 その後は、ANA国内線のさまざまな路線を飛び回り、あなたの街にも飛んでくるかも？✈️ さらに、ANAの制服を着たちいかわたちのオリジナルグッズもお披露目🎉 羽田空港には『ちいかわ×ANA』仕様のお店が登場します🎊 ちいかわたちと一緒に、空の旅を楽しみませんか？☁️✈️ — ANA【公式】 (@ANA_travel_info) October 18, 2026 Inside, the cabin is decorated with original Chiikawa headrest covers (which you can’t take with you – boo). Passengers can expect to be served drinks in cups featuring Hachiware, Chiikawa and Usagi – you’ll only get one cup per flight, but this one can be taken home if you so desire. Photo: ANA Trading Co., Ltd.Pictured is the full line-up Marking the special occasion, the airline is also launching a range of exclusive Chiikawa merchandise featuring the characters in airline-inspired roles, including Captain Usagi, first officer Hachiware, air marshaller Momonga, aircraft technician Kurima

Here’s a new way to admire Shinjuku’s greatest green oasis: from above. Lifestyle hotel brand Nohga Hotel’s latest property will boast panoramic front-row views of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, offering guests the opportunity to feel the changing seasons up close right in the heart of the city. Photo: Nomura Real Estate Hotels Co., Ltd.Panorama Deluxe Twin room The hotel operator’s fourth property features 72 guest rooms, each spacious by Tokyo standards at over 30 square metres. The interiors blend the warmth of wood with traditional Japanese craftsmanship, art and lighting to create a space that feels both relaxing and sophisticated. Photo: Nomura Real Estate Hotels Co., Ltd.Flagship Gyoen Suite Occupying the highest floor are the hotel’s flagship Gyoen Suites, each measuring around 70 square metres in size with generous natural lighting from the room’s 13-metre-windows. You can enjoy panoramic views from the king-size bed, couch, or even the large park-facing bathtubs. All rooms come with a private balcony, giving guests a chance to unwind and take in this rare patch of greenery amid Tokyo’s concrete jungle. Photo: Nomura Real Estate Hotels Co., Ltd.Gyoen Suite   Photo: Nomura Real Estate Hotels Co., Ltd.Gyoen Suite bathroom The hotel will also house dining facilities open to both guests and local residents. The first floor will feature a bakery, café and bar lounge. Open all day, these spaces will serve as social hubs connecting the hotel with the surrounding ne

Being one of the most visited museums in the world, the Tokyo National Museum may not feel particularly meditative on your average day. But the Ueno institution has a Zen side to it, too – one it’s set to showcase with aplomb from October 14. Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaThe garden Coinciding with the museum’s upcoming ‘Daitoku-ji: Japan’s Unrivalled Zen Monastery – 700th Anniversary Special Exhibition', the gardens behind the main building will host a special after-hours autumn leaves illumination event designed to soothe the senses and let visitors admire the natural beauty of the otherwise closed grounds. Photo: VIE Co., Ltd.Suigetsu Pond At Zen Night Tokyo, you’ll get to walk meditatively along the shores of Suigetsu Pond as the trees above sparkle in seasonal colours. Once a part of the former Kan’eiji Temple that encompassed much of Ueno Park, the calm pond will, on a clear evening, mirror the autumn moon and foliage for a breathtaking view. You’ll also find the waters enveloped by a sea of artificial clouds and music produced to soothe the mind and complement the view. Photo: NikkeiOpen-air teahouse Organised by neuro-tech startup VIE, Zen Night Tokyo also features original soundscapes intended to calm the mind. These can be enjoyed at the aforementioned pond, at the open-air Momiji Chaya teahouse serving warm matcha and matcha lattes, and at the karesansui Zen rock garden in front of the Kujokan teahouse. The Zen garden will also host an audiovisual spectacle where a my

The Hyakudan Kaidan (Hundred Steps Staircase), a tangible cultural property designated for preservation by the city of Tokyo, reopened on October 1 for the first time in a year, ahead of renovations and rebranding at Hotel Gajoen in Meguro. Only open to the public when exhibitions are held at the site, the majestic staircase is once again revealed to the world in its full early-Showa-era opulence, replete with painted ceilings, detailed wood carvings and breathtaking artworks on the walls. This time around, unlike the usual exhibitions where works of art are the centrepiece, the building itself gets the spotlight – a rare opportunity to see its seven interconnected rooms, each with its own distinctive character, in their ‘natural state’. 画像提供：目黒雅叙園     A true ‘temple of art’, the building is decorated with 126 paintings by leading artists of the 1930s, mother-of-pearl inlay, kumiko shoji screens assembled without nails or adhesives, more than 750 cloisonné enamel pieces set into the ceiling, and cypress pillars approximately 200 years old. The Hyakudan Kaidan stands on the grounds of Hotel Gajoen, a historic wedding venue and hotel that made headlines last year when it suddenly cancelled 180 weddings due to an expired building lease. Initially explained as a temporary closure for renovation work, the underlying issue stemmed from a recent ownership change and the previous operator's failure to secure a lease renewal. The hotel has since reopened its restaurants and rooms in

Hip and lively Sangenjaya gets even more vivacious this November with the return of the Sangenjaya Art Music Festival. The third annual neighbourhood-wide cultural celebration extols the area’s vibrant music scene, beloved local businesses and history, with a mission to pass Sangenjaya’s spirit on to the next generation. Rather than being confined to a single venue, the festival encourages attendees to explore the area on foot and discover great food, welcoming people and local culture along the way. SANGENJAYA ART MUSIC FESTIVAL 2026Scene from a previously held event in 2025 Happening for one day on November 7, the festival centres on four official venues across the neighbourhood, with the main venue located in the car park of the NTT East Setagaya Building. During the day, expect sponsor booths, the official bar and a kids’ e-sports booth to be set up there, along with a stage where you can catch acoustic gigs and DJ sets. From 1pm, Borrachos Sangenjaya will also open its doors, offering live music ranging from rock to techno and house alongside food and drinks. It's a chance to ease into the evening while enjoying the festival's laid-back atmosphere. SANGENJAYA ART MUSIC FESTIVAL 2026Scene from a previously held event in 2025 After 6pm, take a breather from the music and explore Sangenjaya’s local bars and restaurants during ‘Open Town Time’, before the nightlife programme kicks off at 8pm. Four venues, Friends Bar & Lounge, Niwar’s Sangenjaya, Ume-chan bar 32016 and T

Visiting shoppers beware: Japan’s tax-free shopping rules are getting a big overhaul this November. Under the new system, international travellers will no longer be able to avoid consumption tax at the till. Instead, shoppers pay full, tax-inclusive prices upfront and will need to claim a refund afterwards with customs before leaving Japan. The change applies to eligible purchases made on or after November 1 2026. Here are some key things you need to know before embarking on your next shopping spree. First off, the refund process means you’ll need to do a little extra planning before flying out of the country. After arriving at the airport, keep your tax-free purchases handy (without opening or consuming them) and scan your passport at a designated tax-free procedure kiosk before checking in your luggage. You’ll need to complete this procedure within 90 days of your purchase, and Customs may ask to inspect your goods. Alternatively, you can skip the kiosk and complete the procedure online via the government’s Visit Japan Web website. Photo: Albertocc311/DreamstimeDeclare your items and get that refund On the other hand, several existing restrictions are being relaxed. While the minimum spend to be eligible for tax exemption remains ¥5,000 before tax per store per day, you no longer need to separate items between consumables and non-consumables. The sealed transparent anti-tamper bags are gone, and you just need to present all your tax-free items at the airport. This hopeful

While Pompompurin may reign supreme in Sanrio’s annual character rankings, fourth-place Kuromi is now getting a central Tokyo spotlight of her own. From October 19 to November 1, she’s taking over an entire building beside Shibuya Parco, transforming it into a mysterious department store filled with secret passageways, unexpected surprises and Kuromi-themed photo spots. Photo: Sanrio Co., Ltd.Kuromi’s Secret Passage Part of Sanrio’s ‘World Kuromi Project’, the event invites guests into a retail dreamscape inspired by Kuromi’s dreams and imagination. Start at the information counter, where Kuromi will be waiting to greet you, before slipping through a secret passageway to the upper floors. Along the way, you’ll find mysterious photo spot rooms inspired by cosmetics shops and boutiques, as well as spooky surprises hidden in mirrors and displays that spring to life when you get close. There’s even a secret area waiting on the top floor, though you’ll have to visit to find out what’s inside. Photo: Sanrio Co., Ltd.Kuromi’s Mysterious Cosmetics shop Photo: Sanrio Co., Ltd.Kuromi’s Mysterious Boutique The first-floor shop will be stocked with Kuromi merchandise, including mascots available for pre-sale exclusively at the event. Visitors can also pick up special benefits and take part in projects linked to Sanrio’s official Omoide Badge app. Photo: Sanrio Co., Ltd.Presale merch like the 'Mascot' (¥2,860) and the 'Candy-style acrylic charm' (¥770) Known for her tough, rebelli