Shota Nagao

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

Summer in Tokyo may be a time of scorching heat, but it’s also one of the city’s most vibrant seasons with fireworks, traditional festivals and dancing in the streets. These lively events undoubtedly help make the city's steamy nights a little more bearable. The celebrations usually start around Tanabata (July 7) and continue with events dedicated to everything from sunflowers to Awa Odori dances. We've put together a list of all the major summer festivals happening in Tokyo from July through September 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

Tokyo is one photogenic city, and you’d want a proper camera to capture the best moments. Thankfully, the city is chock-full of amazing electronics and camera stores, where you can score a bargain on used equipment or splurge on the latest model. If you’re hoping to save, we highly recommend browsing the second-hand selection at many of Tokyo’s camera shops. Like most preloved items in Japan, second-hand cameras and equipment usually remain in great condition, and you can get them at a decent marked-down price.  Don’t feel intimidated when you walk into these camera stores; there are options for both casual and professional shutterbugs. Plus, your choices in Tokyo are endless as Japan is home to some of the world’s most renowned camera brands including Nikon, Canon, Fujifilm, Ricoh and Panasonic.  To help you find your ideal camera and photography accessories, here are a few of our favourite new and used camera shops.  RECOMMENDED: The best flagship stores in Tokyo

Tokyo’s sweltering, at times dangerous heat is one reason to stay in your hotel room or at home this summer. But what if you could create special memories in the comfort of a properly air-conditioned indoor space? Here are four ways to make the most of the hottest months in shaded, temperature-controlled environments.

Summer is finally here, along with the scorching heat you’re probably not a fan of. But don’t let the weather scare you: from dancing at Bon Odori festivals to cooling off in a pool or spending a day at the beach, there are plenty of ways to experience the Tokyo summer without ending up a sweaty wreck. One excellent option is to only go out at night, when all manner of exciting seasonal events take place across the city. These are our favourites.

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

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

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

June brings with it the chance to get out in the fields and watch nature at play. Firefly (or hotaru in Japanese) season is upon us, and while it's true that Tokyo is rather limited in the field department these days, there are still some great spots to see these homegrown fireworks. Check out our top picks of hotaru-watching events in and around Tokyo. RECOMMENDED: 12 best summer destinations in Japan

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

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

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.

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.

The waterfront Ariake area, home to multiple sporting venues constructed for the 2020 Summer Olympics as well as state-of-the-art entertainment facilities like Tokyo Dream Park and Ariake Garden, is inarguably having a moment. And now plans have been announced for what might become the neighbourhood’s biggest draw so far. Digital art behemoth teamLab is set to enter the fray with a 30,000-square-metre art museum enveloped in greenery, creating a ‘small forest’ around plazas and cafés that’ll be part of the sprawling facility. What’s more, the museum will be eminently accessible, with the Yurikamome Line’s Ariake Tennis no Mori Station within easy walking distance. The museum will be teamLab’s third location in Tokyo after teamLab Borderless in Azabudai Hills and teamLab Planets Tokyo in Toyosu, which attracted a combined total of 4.2 million visitors in 2025. Both teamLabs have arguably become destinations in their own right, with dazzling kaleidoscope-like audiosensory installations utilising the latest digital technologies. The only catch is that the Ariake teamLab’s arrival is still way down the road – the museum isn’t slated to open until 2032. We’ll be sure to keep you updated in the meantime. More from Time Out Tokyo Tokyo’s latest must-book pizza spot just opened at The Bulgari Bar One of these three characters will succeed the Suica Penguin These Tokyo restaurants were just recognised as authentic by the Mexican government Here's the first official 2026 forecast for a

As the autumn nights get colder and darker, make the trip down to Atami for an uplifting concoction of glitter, glam and disco tunes. The one and only Hotel New Akao is taking partiers back to the ’80s with a disco bash on October 28, when the retro cliffside resort’s Salon de Kirin dance hall will be hosting DJs for a night of nostalgic grooves, free-flow drinks and jaw-dropping night views of Atami and Sagami Bay. Photo: Hotel New AkaoHotel New Akao The seaside hot spring resort, which first opened in 1970, is a bubble-era relic that has managed to stand the test of time. Its lavish interiors and vintage ambience evoke the opulence of the roaring ’80s – the exact era that’ll now be recreated on the 15th floor at Salon de Kirin. The dance hall retains much of its original design from the building’s opening, complete with Swarovski chandeliers and uninterrupted 270-degree panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Photo: Hotel New AkaoFinger food On the night, DJs Osshy and George will be manning the decks, spinning classic ’80s disco tunes. Hotel stay packages are also available, including party admission, a limited-edition Hotel New Akao T-shirt and breakfast at the theatre-style dining hall Nishiki, where you can tuck into a buffet of more than 70 dishes made with local ingredients. Photo: Hotel New AkaoTheatre-style dining hall Nishiki Entry is ¥8,000 and includes finger food and free-flow drinks. The event is restricted to guests aged 18 and over. A free shuttle service

Meet your next Tokyo transit card companion: a squirrel, a rabbit or a mole. Since February, railway company JR East has been sourcing original designs from young creators to find a replacement for the beloved Suica penguin, who will be graduating from his official duties in March 2027. And now they’ve narrowed the candidates down to three: Option A, an orange squirrel; Option B, a purple rabbit; and Option C, an orange mole. The new characters are still in the preliminary design stage, and a separate public contest to choose a nickname will be held once the winning character design has been decided in November. In the meantime, a poll to vote for the candidates is open on JR East’s official website until September 23. The Suica penguin has served as the transit card’s official mascot since 2001 and has become widely beloved over the years, thanks to plenty of merchandise and memorable advertisements. So whoever wins the race to become the next face of Suica and JR East will have some big shoes to fill, and we’ll all no doubt need some time to get used to the newbie. More from Time Out Tokyo A Mexican pop-up restaurant has landed at Bees Bar by Narisawa Here's the first official 2026 forecast for autumn leaves in Japan Here’s everything you need to know about the Suica penguin’s impending graduation Travel across Japan by train for three days with this autumn-only unlimited rides pass Tamagotchi is now a ring you can wear on your finger Want to be the first to know what’s coo

Fancy travelling across Japan this autumn without spending a fortune on train tickets? JR’s ‘Aki no Norihodai’ (Autumn Unlimited) Pass is returning this year, offering three consecutive days of unlimited travel on local and rapid JR trains nationwide for a measly ¥7,850 (children ¥3,920). The pass goes on sale from September 18, with the travel period running from October 3 to October 18. You’re free to choose your preferred start date when purchasing the ticket, with each pass valid for three consecutive days, starting from that date. What’s particularly convenient about this pass is that you can freely hop in and out of stations as you please – perfect for grabbing some food at local eateries and taking in the local air. Note that the pass only covers travel on local trains and slightly faster kaisoku (rapid) trains – ordinary commuter-style JR trains that do not offer reserved seating. Also, certain sections of non-JR lines can be used when travelling between JR lines, including parts of the Aoimori Railway, Ainokaze Toyama Railway, IR Ishikawa Railway and Hapi-Line Fukui. Photo: abbacchiio/PhotoACShin-Estu Main Line In other words, this pass is best suited to travellers willing to embrace slower-paced travel and take advantage of non-Shinkansen routes that let you see a slice of rural Japan life you’d otherwise miss out on. Although the pass does not cover limited express, express or Shinkansen bullet trains, you can of course purchase tickets separately for those to ex

夏の終わりが近づく8月28日の夜、六本木の複合施設「アークヒルズ」内にある「アークヒルズギャラリー」を舞台に、タイムアウト東京が主催するスペシャルイベント「Time Out Summer’s Out」が開催された。 同イベントは事前予約制で、入場無料。来場者は無料ドリンクとともに、暑さを忘れて音楽やフードを満喫。肩の力を抜いて、夏の終わりを楽しむための一夜となった。 Photo: Shota NagaoTime Out Summer’s Out Photo: Shota NagaoTime Out Summer’s Out この日のプログラムは、東京を拠点に国内外で活動する3組のミュージシャンによるオープンマイクからスタート。シンガーソングライターのMio Rose、ファンクスタイルのトークボックス奏者・Nao Right Now、バイオリニスト兼ボーカリストのOlivia Imamuraがステージに登場した。 Photo: Shota NagaoSinger-songwriter Mio Rose トップバッターは、ミシガン州出身で、日本とアメリカを行き来しながら活動するマルチリンガルのMio Rose。アメリカを中心に活動する彼女は、英語と日本語によるオリジナル楽曲を披露した。フォークとポップを融合させたアコースティックギターの力強い演奏で、会場を盛り上げた。 Photo: Shota NagaoTalk box player Nao Right Now 続いて登場したのは、コロナ禍以前に開催していたタイムアウト東京のオープンマイクにも出演していたNao Right Now。R&B、ヒップホップ、ソウル、エレクトロニックミュージックを融合させたグルーヴィーなトークボックスパフォーマンスを繰り広げる。シンセサイザーを演奏しながらトークボックスを操り、ムニ・ロング（Muni Long）の「Made for Me」など近年のR&Bヒット曲も取り入れた。17年にわたるトークボックス奏者としての経験を感じさせるステージとなった。 Photo: Shota NagaoViolinist Olivia Imamura オープンマイクの最後を飾ったOlivia Imamuraは、バイオリンとライブルーピングを駆使して音を重ねていく。自身を「ルーパー」と称する彼女は、2歳から磨いてきたバイオリンの技術にライブボーカルやエフェクトを重ね、オリジナル曲2曲とカバー曲2曲を演奏した。 Photo: Shota Nagao その後は、Super VHSと東京ムード会議で活動するDJ Yuki IriokaがDJブースに登場。「東京から着想を得たスイート演歌」をテーマに、演歌やムード歌謡を織り交ぜた選曲で会場を包んだ。演歌やムード歌謡のセレクターとして、どこか懐かしいメロディーの新たな楽しみ方を探求するYuki Irioka。そのプレイは、夏の終わりの六本木に盆踊りを思わせるような、意外性のある情緒的なムードをもたらした。 Photo: Shota NagaoDeputy Editor-in-Chief Genya Aoki with an Osaka Dog 会場では、大阪発のホットドッグ「大阪ドッグ」も提供された。カレー粉で味付けした炒めキャベツをたっぷり乗せた一品は、手軽に食べられながらも食べ応え十分。ドリンクやステージから流れる音楽、DJのサウンドとともに、ゆったりとした夜を彩った。 Photo: Shota Nagao 例年より

To celebrate Tamagotchi’s 30th anniversary, Bandai has shrunk the virtual pet down to its tiniest form yet – into a ring that you can, quite literally, wear on your finger. Photo: Bandai Co., Ltd.The ring when compared with the original Tamagotchi (Middle) and the original Tamagotchi with colour (Right) Announced last week, the Tamagotchi ring will be released exclusively in Japan. Manufacturer Bandai has squeezed the beloved virtual pet into an egg-shaped device measuring just 28mm tall, which is around 56 percent the size of the original Tamagotchi launched in 1996. Despite its diminutiveness, the ring retains the familiar Tamagotchi gameplay, including feeding your virtual pet, playing minigames with it and customising its room. The ring’s screen – a 14.2mm colour LCD – is the smallest display ever used on a Tamagotchi. Photo: Bandai Co., Ltd.The Tamagotchi Ring (¥7,700) The familiar three-button layout has, however, been sacrificed to make the device small enough to put on your finger. Instead, the ring is controlled using two buttons on either side, and the three front-facing buttons now are merely decorative. It comes with an egg-shaped charging case, and you can continue playing with your Tamagotchi while it charges – a handy feature given just how tiny the battery inside must be. To mark the franchise’s 30th anniversary, you can raise a total of 30 different Tamagotchi characters, including familiar faces from across the virtual pet’s three-decade h

When it was announced last November that the Suica penguin would be ‘graduating’ as the chief mascot of JR East’s transportation cards at the end of fiscal year 2026, Tokyo was shocked, to say the least. Now, with the recent news that the cherished aquatic bird will leave us even sooner than that – due to the discontinuation of Suica cards featuring the character – here’s a round-up of all the Suica penguin-related events happening in Tokyo this autumn and winter. Photo: Thanee Hengpattanapong/DreamstimeSuica card with the beloved penguin But first, a small recap of the penguin’s time in the spotlight. Illustrator Chiharu Sakazaki’s creation debuted alongside the launch of JR East’s Suica contactless payment service in 2001 and has been beloved ever since for its adorable expressions and humorous appearances in TV commercials – like this one, in which the penguin gets a little homesick. Through major milestones such as the launch of Mobile Suica in 2006, full compatibility between Suica and Tokyo’s private railway-run Pasmo networks in 2007, and nationwide interoperability with regional cards like Icoca and Toica in 2013, the penguin has been the literal face of all things IC. Photo: East Japan Railway Company「Penguin Years」 But now, after a 25-year run, the short-legged star is calling it quits. JR East has somewhat confusingly designated fiscal year 2026 – which runs until the end of March 2027 – as the ‘Penguin Years’, celebrating the mascot’s history and looking back

With summer drawing to a close, Time Out Tokyo took over Ark Hills Gallery on the evening of August 28 with Time Out Summer’s Out, an extra special party that featured live music, food and drinks for a laidback send-off to the season. Held right beside Ark Hills Cafe and just off Spain-zaka Street in Roppongi, the event invited guests to escape the heat with free drinks and an all-round good time. Entry was free with advance reservation. Photo: Shota Nagao The evening’s programme began at 7pm with an open mic session featuring three musicians active in Tokyo and abroad: songwriter Mio Rose, violinist-vocalist Olivia Imamura and funk-style talk box performer Nao Right Now. Photo: Shota NagaoSinger-songwriter Mio Rose Hailing from Michigan and frequently hopping between Japan and the US, multilingual singer-songwriter Mio Rose kicked things off with a powerful acoustic guitar performance. Usually performing across the US, she played her own songs in both English and Japanese, blending folk and pop and setting an upbeat mood for the evening. Photo: Shota NagaoTalk box player Nao Right Now The second performer was Nao Right Now, a familiar artist from our pre-pandemic open-mic sessions, with his groovy talk-box show blending R&B, hip-hop, soul and electronic sounds. Playing the synth while shaping vocals through his talk box tube, Nao performed recent R&B hits such as Muni Long’s ‘Made for Me’. His 17 years of experience as a talk box player were evident throughout the perf

With September’s Grand Sumo tournament just around the corner, you’ll soon be able to pick up socks and an Imabari Towel handkerchief featuring a legend of the sport at your local konbini. The latest collab offering from FamilyMart’s in-house label Convenience Wear celebrates yokozuna Chiyonofuji, one of the last great sumo wrestlers of the Showa era (1926-1989), who passed away in 2016. The collection consists of the konbini chain’s popular Imabari handkerchiefs and striped socks, which have both been given original sumo theming. Photo: FamilyMart Co., Ltd.Socks with shimenawa hemp rope pattern The Line Socks (¥600) feature a shimenawa hemp rope pattern that’s inspired by the ceremonial tsuna ropes worn by yokozuna grand champions. The towel handkerchiefs (¥800), meanwhile, are adorned with an image of Chiyonofuji in a jacquard design that’s made possible through the craftsmanship of Imabari towel artisans. Photo: FamilyMart Co., Ltd.Jacquard pattern with Chiyonofuji’s name in calligraphic bold Leading up to FamilyMart’s 45th anniversary this September, the convenience store giant has been making a succession of big moves. These include opening its first flagship store – directed by fashion designer and entrepreneur Nigo – releasing an extensive line of FamilyMart merch, and expanding the Convenience Wear collection. The last of those is developed in collaboration with fashion designer Hiromichi Ochiai, who hopes the new Chiyonofuji collection will ‘serve as an opportuni

Eager to take in some art along with the seasonal foliage this autumn? You’re in luck: six Tokyo Metropolitan Government-run museums and cultural institutions are reducing their fees and extending their opening hours during the season. The Edo-Tokyo Museum, the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo, the Tokyo Shibuya Koen-dori Gallery, the Teien Art Museum and the Tokyo Photographic Art Museum are staying open until 8pm on Fridays from November 6 to November 27. Mirroring the currently running Summer Night Museum programme, the autumn version will also feature discounts for general admission after 5pm, as well as free admission for students to some venues. Here are the details for each institution. Photo：Kisa ToyoshimaExhibition space Tokyo Metropolitan Edo-Tokyo Museum Friday opening hours extended to 8pm from November 6 to November 27 On Fridays during the event period, visitors can enjoy the museum’s permanent exhibition after the usual closing time of 5pm, with free admission for students and a 20 percent discount for adults. The ‘NHK Taiga Drama Special Exhibition: Brothers in Arms’ exhibition is open until 8pm as well on November 6, but will not offer free admission for students. Photo: 東京都美術館Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum Friday opening hours extended until 8pm on November 20 and November 27 The Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum will extend its opening hours until 8pm on November 20 and 27, giving visitors the

For what seems like a cooler summer, Tokyo can still get pretty hot at times. And in sweltering September, nothing whets the appetite quite like piping-hot Taiwanese street food. Taking place for the first time from September 3 to September 6 at Hibiya Park’s Nirenoki Plaza, Ya-Taiwan Festival 2026 is expected to bring the iconic Taiwanese night market experience to Tokyo. Photo: Ya-Taiwan Festival Executive CommitteeStreet food at Ya-Taiwan Festival The venue will be lined with food stalls serving Taiwanese favourites, from beef noodle soup, pan-fried dumplings, braised pork rice and crispy jipai fried chicken to more decadent dishes like roast duck, oyster omelettes, danzai noodles, pepper buns and much more. You’ll also find refreshments such as Taiwanese beer and bubble tea. Photo: Ya-Taiwan Festival Executive CommitteeSky Lanterns Every day, the festival will host a Sky Lantern Experience, recreating the iconic lantern release attraction above the train tracks in Shifen. Participants can release lanterns bearing their wishes into the night sky from 8pm, with on-site registrations happening on a first-come, first-served basis from 6pm. The price is ¥4,000 per lantern. Photo: Ya-Taiwan Festival Executive CommitteeTaiwanese shaved ice There will also be plenty of refreshing Taiwanese sweets to help beat the lingering summer fatigue, including iced douhua soybean pudding and Taiwanese shaved ice. Photo: Ya-Taiwan Festival Executive CommitteeScene from a previously hel

If you’re looking to combine a bowl of hearty ramen with dancing till dawn, head to futuristic music bar Hven, tucked beneath the tracks in the heart of swanky Nakameguro. The venue plays host to Ramen Rave, a new party series aiming to bring ramen and club culture closer together. The next edition, organised by Tokyo- and London-based audiovisual duo Tamanaramen, takes place on Friday August 21. Photo: Ramen Rave & TamanaramenTamanaramen in Roppongi Ramen Rave launched back in autumn 2025 at Koi Ramen Bar in London, where it brought together partiers from diverse backgrounds. It later teamed up with the Roppongi ramen purveyor Kumamen. The idea grew from the Tamanaramen sisters’ experience of moving to London and discovering the importance of community and the connections that can form between people. Photo: Ramen RaveScene at a previously held event For this edition, Sapporo-based eatery Ramen Ichi will serve 150 bowls of its limited edition ‘Ichi-style’ chuka soba. On the decks you’ll find six DJs and artists: Licaxxx, Jun Inagawa, Ecec, Kekeneko, Rat and Himawari. Photo: Ramen RaveScene from a previously held event   Photo: Ramen RaveScene from a previously held event   The party runs from 10pm to 5am the following morning. Advance tickets cost ¥2,500, or ¥3,000 at the door, while the ramen is ¥1,500 per bowl and available in limited quantities. Photo: Ramen RaveRamen Rave Key Visual Whether you’re there for the noodles, the music or both, the choice is yours. E