Shota Nagao

Fruit picking and vegetable harvesting experiences are available outside the city year-round, but are an especially alluring escape from sweltering central Tokyo in the summer. We've rounded up the best family-friendly farms for crop picking – all within easy reach of the city.RECOMMENDED: The 12 best public swimming pools in Tokyo – from ¥200 per entry

Summer is here. Just as restaurants and cafés are pushing out cooling treats like kakigori and ice cream to help hot and sweaty Tokyoites cope with the heat, Tokyo's many water parks are kicking into high gear. So when the heat gets unbearable, grab your swimsuit and sunblock and go a-splashing at these water parks. They feature jumbo-sized pools, twisting and turning slides, elegant fountains and spectacular manmade waterfalls, providing a fun day out for adults and kids alike. Unfortunately, tattoos, even fake ones, are prohibited at all water parks. RECOMMENDED: Prefer to stay dry? Check out these indoor theme parks and amusement parks in Tokyo

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 2025. Now's your turn to experience the magic of summer and fill up on delicious matsuri food. RECOMMENDED: Don't miss the best fireworks festivals in and near Tokyo

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

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 2025, 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 highly anticipated Sumida River Fireworks Festival (July 26) and the sensational Edogawa Fireworks Festival (August 2). 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

Standing out with its signature 330-metre tall tower, cutting-edge architecture and ethos of sustainability and wellness, the expansive Azabudai Hills complex has become a pivotal landmark and lifestyle hub in central Tokyo. If you’re looking for a hip new place to dine and catch up with friends, or rejuvenate in a lush urban oasis, Azabudai Hills is the place to be – and it’s got plenty more too, including public art, sleek galleries and educational facilities. Read on for our selection of the best places to shop, dine and see in Azabudai Hills.

タイムアウト大阪 > Things to Do >2025年大阪・関西万博で見逃せない10のこと 2025年は大阪の年になりそうだ。待望の万博が55年ぶりに大阪に帰ってくる。革新的な最新技術、世界中の斬新なアイデア、そして希望あふれる未来に向けた持続可能なソリューションがぎっしりと詰まった博覧会が始まるのだ。 大阪湾の沖合に浮かぶ人工島「夢洲（ゆめしま）」で開催される「2025年日本国際博覧会」（以下、大阪・関西万博）では、次世代航空モビリティから、内省的な思考を促す静けさの森まで、さまざまな出合いが待っている。会場内の至る所に数十の国や企業のパビリオンがあり、来場者を歓迎する。大阪・関西万博への旅は、一日がかりのものになることを覚悟しよう。 大阪・関西万博は、2025年4月13日（日）から10月13日（月）まで開催される。その包括的なテーマは「いのち輝く未来社会のデザイン」。一人一人が、それぞれの可能性を最大限に発揮しながら自らの望む生き方を考えるきっかけとなることを指針としている。 しかし、大それたアイデアや未来的なテクノロジーが提示されるだけではなく、実際に体験できる楽しみもたくさんある。ここでは、タイムアウト東京英語版編集部がこの記念すべき大阪・関西万博で注目したい10の展示やイベント、パフォーマンスを紹介する。 原文はこちらから。 関連記事『大阪・関西万博ガイド』

Only a 30-minute train ride from Ikebukuro Station, Kawagoe in Tokyo’s neighbouring Saitama prefecture is a popular weekend destination. The highlight of Kawagoe is its well-preserved Koedo area, also known as Little Edo. In this small town, you’ll find plenty of souvenir shops, eateries and cafés, all inside kurazukuri, traditional warehouse-style buildings. Explore the historical streets in a kimono or yukata while enjoying local treats made from sweet potato, Kawagoe’s speciality. Look out for sweet potato ice cream, or imo kenpi (sweetened sweet potato fries), sold along the cosy Kashiya Yokocho – that’s Penny Candy Alley in English. But there’s much more to Kawagoe than just food. The city is a great destination year round: the little stream behind Hikawa Shrine is lined by cherry blossoms in spring and large koinobori (carp streamers) decorate the Taisho Roman Yume Street around Children’s Day in May. To make the most of your visit, check our list below with everything you need for a great day trip to  Kawagoe. RECOMMENDED: Head to the seaside for a perfect day in Kamakura

Tokyo has its fair share of quality ice cream shops, with flavours ranging from classic chocolate to salted caramel, but let’s face it – you can find those flavours in any other city. Trade your run-of-the-mill ice cream and soft-serve for something more exotic and Japan-specific, like sakura, roasted green tea or ume plum. You might even discover a new favourite flavour. RECOMMENDED: The best street food and snacks in Asakusa near Sensoji Temple

During the scorching summer heat, Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai is best enjoyed in the cooler hours, after the sun dips below the horizon of Osaka Bay. Thankfully, the Expo is buzzing at night with dazzling shows, restaurant dinner deals and beautifully illuminated pavilions. Swapping the sweltering daytime temperatures for a refreshing night breeze may be the biggest benefit, but here are seven more reasons to head to Yumeshima after dark. RECOMMENDED: Find out how to purchase tickets for the 2025 Expo

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

As one of the largest metropolitan cities in the world, Tokyo has so much more to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. With so many events happening every weekend and so many things to discover around each corner, Tokyo still induces a sense of fomo in us who live here – what more for visitors who only have a few days to cram in all the biggest hits the city has to offer. Take this feature as your tried-and-tested itinerary as we reveal to you the Time Out Tokyo editorial team’s personal favourite restaurants, bars and things to do in Tokyo. You’re welcome. Now go out there and explore. RECOMMENDED: Useful apps for travelling in Tokyo and Japan

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

The Sawara Grand Festival is held twice a year – in July and October – in the picturesque canal city of Sawara in northern Chiba. Regarded as one of the three largest float festivals in the Kanto region, the festival was recognised by UNESCO as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property in 2016. The summer version of the Sawara Grand Festival takes place from July 11 to 13. Expect to see ten magnificent floats adorned with meticulously crafted ornaments and likenesses of ancient warriors on top during the three-day fest. For fans of traditional festivals, this is a truly immersive experience – complete with dancers in period costume, the rhythmic sounds of Sawara bayashi festival music, and a cityscape that feels like it’s been frozen in time for the 300 years the festival has been held for. While Sawara is located a stone’s throw away from Narita, getting to the city from central Tokyo by train is a bit more difficult. The journey takes approximately two hours, involving a transfer from the Sobu Line Rapid Service at Narita to the Narita Line to Sawara Station. However, easier and faster direct-route bus options are available from Bus Terminal Tokyo Yaesu, stop no. 14 (Choshi Sawara Route).

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

If you’re craving familiar and comforting flavours after endlessly eating Japanese food, you’ll find them right here. Bringing a slice of Harlem to Kichijoji, The Dap’s Famous Hood Joint conjures up authentic New York-style sandwiches. Owner Yoshikazu Miyamoto honed his skills in East Harlem by working at Hajji’s Deli and offers a menu featuring the standout Authentic Chopped Cheese Sandwich (¥1,150) – a hearty mix of grilled ground beef, cheddar cheese, onions and fresh veggies on toasted bread. Other favourites include the monstrous Kichijoji Fat Boy Sandwich (¥2,800), the Philly Wheelie Cheese Steak (¥1,350) and the B-Side Chicken Over Rice (¥1,100). As for drinks, you can’t go wrong with their cool and creamy frozen piña coladas, which come in alcoholic and non-alcoholic varieties (from ¥600).  The shop’s standout feature is its brick staircase seating, which leads seamlessly up to the barbershop next door. Miyamoto took inspiration from the red bleachers in Times Square, aiming to recreate that casual, communal vibe. Because the restaurant floor sits level with the street, dining here almost feels like eating outside. The brown brick steps evoke the stoops of New York brownstones, adding to the distinctly urban aesthetic. And with the Chuo Line cutting diagonally across Inokashira Street just out front, Miyamoto says the view reminds him of a typical NYC street scene. In that scenario, is Inokashira Park Kichijoji’s version of Central Park?

It’s getting warmer, which means outdoor music festival season is in full swing. Ebisu’s Yebisu Garden Place is hosting its second annual outdoor jazz festival for three consecutive days this May, featuring a host of live performances by renowned artists from Japan and abroad.   While many of the scheduled performances are paid, expect to see free shows by domestic artists such as Bossa Nova specialist Lisa Ono and jazz pianist Tadataka Unno, bassist and singer Tendre, as well as the Grace Aimi, Yancy & Zack Auslander trio. Highlights from the list of paid performances include R&B artists Kona Rose with David Bryant, alternative rock band Luby Spark, and experimental soul band Wonk at the Blue Note Place, managed by legendary jazz club Blue Note. Coinciding with the 130th anniversary of the start of diplomatic relations between Japan and Brazil, the event will also feature a traditional pagode samba party hosted by celebrated former soccer player Ruy Ramos and his daughter Fabiana. The father-daughter duo will be performing on stage as a percussionist and singer, respectively. Standing tickets (¥3,900) are now available to purchase online via Eplus. Check the event timetable for more details.

Regarded as one of the greatest photographers of the 20th century, Robert Capa’s impactful photographs capture the essence of humanity when it is the most unseen – amidst the sufferings of war. Capa was present, eighty years ago, in the combat zones of World War II, risking his life to capture photographs that serve as tangible and reliable records of the conflicts. His work covers the political turmoil of Europe in the 1930s, the Spanish Civil War, the bombing of China by Japanese forces, the Allied counter-offensive against Germany in North Africa, the Normandy landings and more.  This exhibition will showcase 140 of Capa’s most compelling war-themed prints, highlighting the profound human tenderness of soldiers and civilians enduring the hardships of conflict. The exhibition is closed on Mondays (except May 5) as well as May 7.

Explore the concept of ‘preciousness’ at Fujifilm’s pop-up store and exhibition, ‘A Camera Shop Philosophizing Preciousness.’ This unique event invites visitors to reflect on what the word means through various photographs and writings – and the experience of using a Fujifilm X-series camera. Open until March 30, the shop carries an impressive display of Fujifilm’s current line-up of cameras, which are now immensely popular due to TikTok, as well as a special booth to appreciate the craftsmanship of Fujifilm cameras through sound and touch. On your way out, don’t miss the self-portrait booth, where you can take home a printed photo taken with a Fujifilm camera. You’ll also receive a photo album to store your precious memories in.

Opened in 2024 within the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo theatre, this museum offers a rare glimpse into the world of geiko (geisha of Kyoto) and maiko (apprentice geiko). On display are exquisite kimono, obi sashes, ornate kanzashi hairpins, makeup tools, and traditional footwear known as okobo, all once used by performers at the theatre. Through this extensive collection of artefacts and informative panels, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the performers’ lives and traditions while appreciating the craftsmanship behind each item. One of the museum’s greatest charms is in how it makes the traditionally exclusive and somewhat mysterious world of Kyoto’s entertainment districts more accessible.  Visitors also have the opportunity to see live geiko and maiko up close. Five times a day, a Kyoto-style kyomai dance performance is held for an audience of up to 60 people per session (¥1,600 per person). Additionally, twice a day, a limited number of visitors (20 groups per session) can participate in a paid commemorative photo shoot (¥2,000). Participants receive an instant film photograph along with a personalised senshafuda name slip featuring the geiko’s name – a truly special Kyoto souvenir.

This wagyu-focused restaurant opened in 2022 and is the brainchild of Takafumi Kayamori, who trained as a yakiniku chef for 20 years. There's a warm, dimly-lit dining room with eight counter seats from which diners can watch the chef at work, although the star of the show is the wagyu kappo cuisine, which is carefully selected by the owner and served in a variety of ways that go far beyond your bog-standard yakiniku. This restaurant only has one thing on the menu: an 'omakase course', a chef-curated meal which features unique dishes made with seasonal ingredients which enhance the magnificent wagyu beef. Everything is freshly prepared and, if you're in luck, you'll be treated to Kayamori's hand-rolled beef sushi or homemade soba noodles, both of which highlight the chef's boundless creativity.

Immerse yourself in a captivating world of art at a soon-to-be-demolished apartment building. Yeah, you heard that right: over two weeks, a 10-storey condo complex slated to be torn down in February is being given a new life (albeit briefly) as an immersive art gallery. Taking over the building with 50 apartments, this unique exhibition showcases a diverse collection of works by emerging and established artists such as Emi Kusano, Alligator Jesus, Espo, Oto, Kenji Yanobe, the Mallary Archive and more. Moreover, the building’s hallways and common areas are given a makeover by Amanda Hagy, an award-winning Hollywood scenic artist who has produced background art for movies such as Joker, West Side Story and John Wick Chapter 3. Don’t forget to check out all of the floors, as each one is decorated with different themes, ranging from ‘Dekotora’ to Cyberpunk. Be sure to purchase a ticket in advance online, as they won’t be selling them on-site.

Experience traditional Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock prints in motion at Warehouse Terrada this winter, as digital creative company Hitohata returns to Tokyo with a dazzling exhibition of works by many of Japan’s most prized artists, including Katsushika Hokusai and Utagawa Hiroshige. The exhibition is set to open on December 21 and will go on until March 31. Expect to see vibrant artworks come to life with surging waves, falling sakura petals and moving flowers and trees. In addition to the digital exhibits, the museum will display a selection of famous ukiyo-e from the Edo period (1603–1867), making for a perfect chance to learn more about the art form’s history and culture. Tickets are currently on sale online, with early-bird ticket discounts available from kkday, eplus and Lawson Ticket until Dec 20. 

With one of the best vistas of Tokyo cityscape, Tokyo Skytree is a popular spot for enjoying aerial views of our beloved city. For a limited time this winter, the lower observation deck is hosting exclusive geisha and sumo shows that are only available to 20 guests per session.  There are two separate plans: geisha dance at night and sumo wrestling at the break of dawn. On November 26 and December 15, you can experience the enchanting world of geisha with the Night Plan. From 10pm to 12.30am, the observation deck will come alive with the mesmerising sounds of traditional shamisen music and the graceful dance of elegant geisha. There will be refreshments, and you will have a front-row view of the artistry, with a panorama of the glittering skyline in the background. The plan also includes an interpreter to guide you through the performance and share insights on geisha culture. Furthermore, you’ll also get to create your own Edo Kiriko, a traditional Tokyo glass craft. Early-risers on the other hand are in for a treat on November 27 and December 16. The action-packed Morning Plan starts at 5.15am (5.30am on Dec 16), where you can witness the raw power and ancient ritual of sumo wrestling. Imagine the thrill of watching these impressive athletes face off against the backdrop of the rising sun, as the city slowly awakens from slumber. The morning sumo plan comes with a breakfast bento box featuring dishes made with fresh ingredients sourced locally in Tokyo. Prices start at ¥100,

Living in Tokyo, we're lucky to have access to many beaches just outside the city, and there’s no better way to spend a summer weekend than basking in the sun by the sea. And in Japan, the best way to hit the beach in style is at an umi no ie (beach house). These often temporary surf-side hangouts are a highlight of the summer season, providing all the essentials you need to enjoy a day on the beach. You can get meals and cocktails, as well as rent your own deck chairs and parasols to upgrade your experience. Some beach houses are even equipped with luxurious lounges while others offer water activities. Here are our four picks of the best beach houses near Tokyo this summer. 画像提供：海の家オアシス Oasis Tucked between a lush forest and the sandy beaches of Hayama, Beach House Oasis is a mainstay in the industry where you can enjoy food, music and the sea to your heart’s content. For its 45th anniversary, the venue will be packed with live music performances spanning various genres, including appearances by singer-songwriter Spinna B-LL, Bose from hip-hop group SDP, and spins by former NHK radio host Peter Barakan, among others. If you’re feeling hungry, try their charcoal-grilled Jamaican jerk chicken served with local Hayama-grown veggies, gaprao rice, and speciality karabashi curry rice, which is only available on Fridays and Sundays. Note that food is only served Fri-Mon When: Until August 31Where: Morito Beach, Horiuchi, Hayamacho, Miura, Kanagawa   View this post on Inst

While spring may be the best time to see cherry blossoms, tulips and wisteria, summer is when himawari (sunflowers) get their time to shine. You’ll find a number of sprawling fields in and around Greater Tokyo, where you can stroll through rows and rows of yellow sunflowers, eat sunflower-themed food, and even enjoy a sunflower maze.  The best time to see the flowers is from July through to the end of August, but some late blooming varieties will still be around in September. Here are our top sunflower spots to check out this summer.  大ケヤキに向かってお辞儀をしているように見えますよね！暑い日が続いた1週間、きれいに咲き揃い楽しませてくれた‘ハイブリッドサンフラワー’もいよいよ終わりが近づいてきました。場所によっては顔をあげている花も残っています◎ pic.twitter.com/BiD5zdrQxE — 国営昭和記念公園 (@showakinenpark) August 8, 2023 Showa Kinen Park, Tokyo This massive park in Tachikawa is where you can enjoy a unique hybrid species of sunflowers known as ​​Asteraceae. The park also has a flourishing section of Sunfinity sunflowers, which were not planted this year. Currently, the flowers have yet to bloom, but you can keep up with the flowering status here.  Photo: Kiyose Sunflower Festival Ishii Farm Kiyose, Tokyo Featuring 100,000 bright yellow himawari, the Kiyose Sunflower Festival takes place from July 26 to August 3 on the outskirts of Tokyo. This expansive sunflower field, roughly 24,000 square meters in size, is used every summer by local farmers to grow sunflowers as a natural fertiliser for agricultural produce. Take in the spectacular scenery of

While spring brings an array of colourful blooms including cherry blossoms, tulips and wisteria, summer is the time for hydrangeas and bright yellow sunflowers. To welcome this season’s flowers, Yokosuka Soleil Hill at Nagai Seaside Park is hosting a Sunflower Festival boasting approximately 150,000 sunflowers from mid-July to the end of August. Photo: Seibu Landscape Co. The sprawling yellow sunflower field stretches over 5,000sqm and has sweeping views of the blue sea. On clear days, you might even spot Mt Fuji in the distance over Sagami Bay.  Photo: Seibu Landscape Co. The sunflowers are best enjoyed from mid-July to mid-August, with full bloom expected on July 23 for 2025. At first glance, the sunflowers may all look the same, but you’ll be able to spot four varieties growing here: Sunrich, Sunfinity, Sensation and SunBelievable. Aside from strolling the flower fields, there will also be a special food menu available from July 18 to August 31. The sunflower-inspired treats on offer include doughnuts shaped as the bright yellow flower, a sunflower parfait, sunflower lemon squash float and more.  Photo: Seibu Landscape Co. Entry is free, but if you’re driving there, parking is ¥1,700 per vehicle. Yokosuka Soleil Hill is located roughly two hours from central Tokyo by train and bus. For more information, visit the park website. This article was originally published on July 1 2021 and updated on July 22 2025. More from Time Out Tokyo This exhibition of Japanese art a

Did you forget it was rainy season? So did we, at least until Thursday evening’s torrential downpour, which offered a brief but welcome reprieve from the intense heatwave that’s held Tokyo in its grip for the past few weeks. Unfortunately, it looks like the rainstorm also signalled the return of the seasonal rain front after a lengthy absence. Weathernews forecasts steady rainfall across western Japan this weekend and Monday, with the rain front then gradually shifting toward the east and north. As it moves, the system is expected to strengthen, bringing extended periods of heavy rain to eastern Japan. In Tokyo, expect temperatures to bounce back to around 30°C over the weekend, paired with stifling humidity. Rainy and overcast weather is likely to persist through Thursday, so keep your umbrella close. The Japan Weather Association currently predicts that the rainy season will come to an end in the Kanto region around July 23. Fingers crossed for sunshine after that. More from Time Out Tokyo The Fuji Rock timetable for 2025 is here The Mt Fuji climbing season has officially begun Sanrio has announced its 2025 character ranking results Embark on a creative journey through time and space at the Leiji Matsumoto exhibition Evangelion's 30th-anniversary art exhibition is happening later this year Want to be the first to know what's cool in Tokyo? Sign up to our newsletter for the latest updates from Tokyo and Japan.

In a bid to encourage Expo 2025 visitors to avoid the summer heat and visit the mega-event at night, Osaka’s governor Hirofumi Yoshimura announced on July 8 that the opening hours of the food and drink retailers at the Osaka Healthcare Pavilion will extend their evening hours by 30 minutes from late July, staying open until 9.30pm. The popular outdoor terrace area between the pavilion and the Grand Ring is lit up with lanterns and shaded with large parasols, effectively making it a beer garden and a go-to spot for enjoying a cool pint at the Expo. Once the new opening hours take effect, the alfresco area will be accessible until 9.45pm. This announcement follows previous calls by the governor in May, urging the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition to extend restaurant hours until just before 10pm. However, that proposal faced resistance due to concerns about securing transportation for Expo staff after closing time. More from Time Out Osaka This thought-provoking Osaka exhibition features 39 hyperrealistic human sculptures Japan Day lights up the Osaka Expo with Misia, mascots and traditional arts Umeda is hosting a month-long summer festival with Bon Odori, live music and art The popular Pokémon rooms in Osaka and Kyoto reopen with fun new designs Enjoy fireworks by Japan’s national pyrotechnic team at this autumn event in Osaka

Japan Day at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai was held on July 3, one of many national days during which each participating country celebrates and shares its culture with the world. The host nation marked the occasion with a vibrant showcase of both tradition and innovation, featuring performances of calligraphy and gagaku (ancient court music), alongside a lively parade starring mascots like the Expo’s own Myaku-Myaku, Kumamon, Hikonyan and Hello Kitty. Photo: ©Expo 2025Japan Day performance by Misia The highlight of the day was a powerful three-song set by Misia, the acclaimed R&B singer known for her soaring vocals and dedication to social causes. Dressed in a dramatic red floral gown that echoed the ceremony’s theme, ‘Life Will Bloom’, Misia captivated an audience of 1,500 that included Crown Prince Akishino and Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. The Expo will continue until October 13 – learn how to purchase your tickets here. More from Time Out Osaka Umeda is hosting a month-long summer festival with Bon Odori, live music and art The popular Pokémon rooms in Osaka and Kyoto reopen with fun new designs Enjoy fireworks by Japan’s national pyrotechnic team at this autumn event in Osaka This sky lantern festival in Osaka is safe for kids and the environment Osaka Expo 2025 is celebrating 10 million visitors with a commemorative stamp

2025年7月3日、「2025年日本国際博覧会」（大阪・関西万博）で、日本文化を発信するイベント「ジャパンデー」が開催された。 会場では、書道や雅楽の演奏などに加え、万博の公式キャラクター「ミャクミャク」や、くまモン、ひこにゃん、ハローキティといった日本を代表するキャラクターたちのパレードも実施。多彩なコンテンツが集結し、伝統と最先端が融合した、日本らしさ全開の一日となった。 Photo: @Expo 2025MISIAのステージ 特に注目を集めたのは、圧倒的な歌声と社会貢献への取り組みで知られるシンガー・MISIAの力強いステージだ。大阪・関西万博のテーマである「いのち輝く未来社会のデザイン」に呼応する、華やかな赤い花柄のドレスに身を包み、3曲を熱唱。秋篠宮皇嗣同妃両殿下や首相の石破茂をはじめ、多くの来場者がその歌声に聴き入った。 大阪・関西万博は10月13日（月）まで開催中。チケットの購入方法は、公式ウェブサイトを確認してほしい。 関連記事 『タイムアウトマーケット大阪のレストラン全店舗紹介』 『大阪・関西万博ガイド』 『大阪アルティメットガイド』 『京都 東寺エリアでしかできない10のこと』 『7月にオープンする見逃せない新施設8選』

Summertime is festival time in Tokyo. And while many associate the season with Bon Odori, that’s not the only celebration happening around this time of year. Kicking off the festive summer season is Tanabata, a traditional Japanese festival with origins in Chinese folklore. According to legend, deity couple Orihime and Hikoboshi are separated by the Milky Way, and they are only able to meet once a year: on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month. Tanabata, or the Star Festival, celebrates the day of their reunion. As Japan has largely dropped the lunar dating system in favour of the Gregorian calendar, Tanabata is commonly celebrated on July 7, which falls on a Monday this year. However, some regions in the country still honour the lunar date, so you’ll find some Tanabata festivities being held in August. The Star Festival is associated with grand, colourful streamers decorating streets, shopping malls and temples. Another popular custom is to write your wishes on strips of paper and hang them on bamboo trees.  Tanabata is one of the most joyous and colourful traditional celebrations in Tokyo – and it offers great photo opportunities. So if you’re in the city this July 4-6 weekend, put any of these three Star Festivals on your to-do list. Photo: Zojoji TempleZojoji Tanabata Festival Zojoji Tanabata Festival July 6-7 Zojoji's version of the celebration features a beautiful candle light-up on Saturday and Sunday from 6pm to 9pm. Hundreds of washi paper lanterns are arrange

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 Tuesday 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. Between Oike Park and the Komagari Tunnel lakeside, 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 45 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 twenty minutes in total. Note that festivals will be cancelled in case of stormy weather

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 2025 on July 30 and 31 after sundown. Photo: Chiyoda City Tourism Association 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: Chiyoda City Tourism Association 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 17. Photo: Chiyoda City Tourism Association On the bright side, 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 the day, by sho

Summer is well underway as we enter Tokyo's unusually late rainy season. While there are a host of fireworks festivals confirmed happening in Tokyo proper this year, you should also check out these three events in nearby Saitama, especially if you’re looking for a quintessential Japanese summer experience but minus the crowd. Photo: genki/PixtaPhoto of Fireworks at Owada Park Saitama City Fireworks at Owada Park The first of the three Saitama city-run fireworks festivals will be held at Owada Park on Sunday July 27 at 7.30pm. Roughly an hour away from Shinjuku Station, the spacious venue offers uninterrupted views of the fireworks regardless of where you are in the park. However, paid seating with the best views is available at the adjacent baseball stadium and pool parking lot. Tickets for these go on sale July 2. Photo: terkey/PixtaStock photo of fireworks Saitama City Fireworks at Omagi Park The second venue, located just seven minutes on foot from the nearby Higashi-Urawa Station (and under 50 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station), Omagi Park will host a fireworks display on Saturday August 9 at 7.30pm. Details of this year's event are yet to be announced. However, to give you an idea of what to expect, last year saw over 5,000 shells of fireworks being launched over one hour. Photo: Tachibana Shashinkan/PixtaStock photo of starmines Saitama City Fireworks at Iwatsuki Culture Park Expect gigantic starmines and other large fireworks at Iwatsuki Culture Park, set to

Known for their obsessively curated playlists and impeccably tuned sound systems, listening bars are a Tokyo institution. The city now has yet another of these audio temples, but not in a form you’d expect. Since January 2025, a mobile listening bar – composed of a classic British Mini and a towed ‘listening room’ campervan – has been popping up across some of the city’s trendier neighbourhoods. Often spotted near Ebisu, Sakurashinmachi and Jinbocho stations, the moving sound sanctuary has already delighted many a Tokyo audiophile and night owl. Photo: Keisuke Tanigawa The mobile listening bar wasn’t initially conceived as one at all. The twin brains behind the project, automotive guru Jinbo from Drivethru Magazine and Kiyota of the co-working space Village out in Hinohara, were developing a ‘mobile sustainable station’ – a campervan equipped with solar panels and batteries – at Village when they discovered their ride’s exceptional acoustic properties.  Photo: Keisuke Tanigawa Enter sound engineer Komatsu of Komatsu Sound Lab, who transformed the van into an audiophile's dream, complete with vacuum tube amplifiers and pristine speakers. Better yet, the system is powered completely by electricity generated with solar panels. Photo: Keisuke Tanigawaミニバーミドリのシオリ The final piece of the puzzle came through a partnership with Shiori, the creative force behind minibar Midori, the bar component of the listening bar experience. On offer are quirky drinks like the Engine, an Itali