Shota Nagao

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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-

The Nishi-Shinjuku skyscraper district is in the midst of an artistic makeover right now, with two major art events happening simultaneously – the One Minute Projection Mapping Competition and the Light Art Park. Encroaching on the turf of local salarymen, Shinjuku Chuo Park serves as the venue for 12 large-scale illuminated art installations by top artists from Japan and across the globe. The programme of light sculptures is being overseen by Kenji Kohashi, creative director of Ultra Japan and the events producer of Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai. Here are some of our favourites, all on display until May 31. Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaBeamhacker『Embrace』     The first artwork that comes into view when entering the park’s ‘Fun More Time’ central plaza is ‘Embrace’ by Beamhacker, a participatory installation where visitors can join hands with the human-shaped illuminated silhouettes to form a human chain, causing ripples of light to spread in a chain reaction. Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaV_T『Visible TOWER』 Adjacent to the participatory installation is ‘Visible Tower’, a rectangular prism tower made up of LED screens that mirror its surroundings in the daytime, and display AI-generated cityscapes and cosmic light trails after dark. Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaLuke Jerram's 'Gaia' Climb up the stairs on the right-hand (North) side to enter the lawn, where you’ll find a stunning spinning globe by UK artist Luke Jerram. Titled ‘Gaia’ and making its Japan debut, the massive artwork measures 7 metres in

Couldn’t get hold of Masayoshi Takanaka tickets for his sell-out shows in San Francisco, London, Los Angeles or Sydney? Fret not: Takanaka is back on tour with his signature surfboard-shaped guitar and red attire, and this time he’s staying in Japan. Starting from September 18 in Tokyo’s Katsushika Symphony Hills Mozart Hall, Takanaka’s latest tour is marking 50 years since his solo debut. Set to play 19 dates in a concert series that concludes in Nagano on February 28 2027, the 73-year-old jazz-fusion guitarist will be bringing his uplifting Brazilian-esque tunes to venues in major hubs like Sapporo and Osaka, as well as smaller regional cities like Hikone, Kanazawa, Hiroshima and Niigata. Takanaka’s soothing ’70s and ’80s city pop has touched the hearts of young millennials and zoomers around the world through TikTok and YouTube virality, and the once internationally obscure artist’s transformation into a worldwide Gen-Z sensation has to be one of the most uplifting stories in the Japanese music scene recently. Seat prices are slated at ¥11,000 (exclusive of sales commission), with presale tickets now available via Rakuten Ticket (International/Domestic). Note that the kickoff show in Tokyo on September 18 is already sold out. More from Time Out Tokyo Seoul’s Kompakt Record Bar lands in Tokyo Tokyo's life-size Unicorn Gundam statue in Odaiba will be retired this August This exclusive Sega pop-up store is now in Tokyo for one week only A new sushi restaurant from the team be

Manga meets the New York theatre world in autumn 2026, when Moyoco Anno’s Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen will make its off-Broadway debut at The Night Egg, a new venue in Midtown Manhattan. Adapted from the manga of the same name, the production is set in early 20th-century Paris and follows Colette, a sharp-witted young woman working at an exclusive maison close brothel. As she documents the confessions and desires of the establishment’s eccentric clientele, Colette discovers a sense of agency through writing, transforming taboo and obsession into art while confronting the lingering emotional scars of a romance from her childhood past. First launched in 2020 as an effort to adapt the work into a Broadway musical – an unprecedented step for a manga – the project will feature music by Tony and Grammy Award-winner Duncan Sheik and choreography by the equally decorated Rob Ashford. Several rising creative talents are also involved, including Japanese-American playwright and screenwriter Leah Nanako Winkler and music director Or Matias. Tickets will go on sale later this summer. Additional details, including performance dates and casting, will be announced soon. More from Time Out Tokyo Registration for the 2026 Mt Fuji climbing season is happening now The mountaintop Unkai Terrace in Hokkaido opens out to a sea of clouds Satisfy your guilty cravings with these unhealthy yet gratifying convenience store treats Japanese film and TV giant Toei Company is launching video games on Stea

Having stood guard over the DiverCity Tokyo Plaza mall in Odaiba since 2017, Tokyo’s life-size Unicorn Gundam is being retired for good this August. The mega-robot leaves a near-decade legacy as the sole guardian of the shopping mall from seagulls and Gunpla scalpers. Leading to the iconic mecha’s departure at the end of August, the 19.7-metre statue is expected to get a fresh new look with red unicorn-themed decals. Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaScene from a previously held event in 2023 When Gundam Factory Yokohama closed its doors two years ago, fans were delighted to learn that the life-size Gundam from that venue would reappear in Osaka for the 2025 Osaka Kansai Expo. In a similar fate to RX-78F00/E, there’s reason to hope the Odaiba Unicorn Gundam will appear again somewhere, in some form, in the near future. The announcement of the Odaiba Gundam’s departure was made at Gundam Conference Spring 2026 and came alongside a teaser of the ‘Gundam Landmark Project’, a brand new Gundam facility or attraction in Japan that’s expected to attract fans from across the globe. While no reason was given for the Unicorn Gundam’s sudden retirement, we hope the Gundam-less era in Tokyo is short-lived. More from Time Out Tokyo Unseasonably warm weather to continue in Tokyo this week A new sushi restaurant from the team behind Udatsu Sushi opens in Omotesando A brand new digital art space is coming to Ariake this June Satisfy your guilty cravings with these unhealthy yet gratifying convenience

Move over teamLab, a new digital art venue is coming to town. Hailing from Paris, Atelier des Lumières is unveiling its 10th international location at the newly opened entertainment complex Tokyo Dream Park in Ariake this June. Photo: Rêve des Lumières Much like the original venue in Paris, Rêve Des Lumières Tokyo will feature spaces with floor-to-ceiling projection mapping, infinity mirror rooms and cylindrical rooms that fully immerse visitors in a vortex of light, vividly bringing artworks to life. Photo: Rêve des Lumières The complex is divided into seven distinct zones, anchored by a sprawling 1,200sqm main gallery purpose-built for immersive digital exhibitions. Its debut programme is set to spotlight a reimagined presentation of Vincent van Gogh’s celebrated sunflower paintings, brought to life through cutting-edge visuals and sound. The equipment is state-of-the-art, too – and there’s a lot of it. With imagery provided by 106 high definition projectors and audio delivered through 63 synchronised speakers, visitors can look forward to an intensely cinematic sensory experience. Photo: Rêve des Lumières Rêve Des Lumières is set to open on June 12 on the eighth floor of Tokyo Dream Park. Tickets are now on sale via the official website. More from Time Out Tokyo Registration for the 2026 Mt Fuji climbing season is happening now The mountaintop Unkai Terrace in Hokkaido opens out to a sea of clouds Satisfy your guilty cravings with these unhealthy yet gratifying conve

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

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