Looking for something to do this weekend, but don't want to just do the same old same old? Tokyo has a plethora of off-kilter events going on, but they're not always very well-advertised. Here are some of our faves this weekend. Let your hair down and celebrate Tokyo's more unorthodox side with these events.
Photo: Shibuya Bosai Fes
Shibuya Bosai Fes
Rather pertinent in a country prone to natural disasters, this annual festival in Yoyogi Park is all about disaster prevention ('bosai'). Professionals from all forms of crisis management will take to the stage with demonstrations on what to do when things go really, really wrong. Expect lots of flyers on how to prep for earthquakes, plus perhaps a cute mascot or two. Sep 1-2. Yoyogi Park, 2-1 Yoyogi Kamizonocho, Shibuya. FREE entry.
Photo: Konchuten/Facebook
Insect Exhibition
It's almost the end of summer and those noisy cicadas are starting to shed their skin and shut up – so no better time to get a closer look at them and their brethren. Ueno's National Museum of Nature and Science, Tokyo is hosting an insect exhibition until early October, so plenty of time to work up the courage if you're not a fan of creepy-crawlies (don't worry, they have pretty butterflies too). The best bit is probably the gift shop, where you can get a cicada plushie if you please. Until Oct 8. 7-20 Ueno Koen, Taito. 9am-5pm Mon-Thu, Sun; 9am-8pm Fri, Sat, irregular holidays. Adults ¥1,600, elementary, junior high, high school students ¥600.
Photo: Zarusobasentai/Twitter
Sokkuri Exhibition
Literally meaning 'exactly alike', this 'sokkuri' exhibition at the Parco Museum showcases all things that look eerily like one thing but aren't. That includes anything from items that are strangely life-like to fake copies of luxury handbags. The exhibition has been divided into different categories, such as a drinks corner, a 'learning' corner and more. It's sure to be a mind-boggling affair. Until Sep 2. Ikebukuro Parco Main Bldg 7F, 1-28-2 Minami-Ikebukuro, Toshima. 10am-9pm. Admission ¥800.
Photo: Ginza Sony Park website
Ginza Sony Park
Hang out at the new Ginza Sony Park, constructed right where the original Sony Building used to be. The multi-floor complex uses both space above and below the ground, with the lower ground floors all constructed on the old parking lot. Inside, you'll find an eclectic range of shops and services, from an upscale 'convenience store' that just sells design goods and a roller skating rink to an anko red bean paste shop that sells limoncello kakigori, a dim sum and egg tart vendor produced by a Michelin-starred Chinese chef, and an aquarium. Outside, there's a lush collection of plants, all of which can apparently be purchased as well. It's certainly a new way to spice up an afternoon in glitzy Ginza. Ginza Sony Park, 5-3-1 Ginza, Chuo. 5am-12.30am (opening hours may differ per shop).