Kaila Imada

Japan's traditional summer treat, kakigori (shaved ice with syrup), has been making a strong comeback over the last few years: specialist shops have been popping up all over town, regularly attracting queues that border on the ridiculous.  The trend shows absolutely no signs of slowing down, and this once summer-only dessert is now served year-round. These shops and cafés are also constantly churning out new and creative flavours to keep the hype going – think tiramisu, avocado and even corn and tomatoes.  This guide points the way to Tokyo's very best shaved ice shops and cafés, many of them open throughout the year. RECOMMENDED: Want more? Cool down with Tokyo's best ice cream

Everyone loves to harp on about Tokyo being far too hot and humid in the summer, but this time of year also comes with a host of season-specific perks that make the city all the more lively. Colourful yukata and the sound of cicadas mark the beginning of summer in Japan. From traditional street matsuri (festivals) to raging music fests spotlighting international artists, it’s hard not to get swept up in all the vibrant festivities Tokyo has to offer during the longest days of the year. Besides, beating the heat is easy enough with the right pair of shorts and an ice cream in hand. Or better yet, just embrace the balmy weather by slapping on some factor 50 and hopping on a train to the nearest beach. And while some events like music festivals will require booking tickets far in advance, no time of year offers more opportunities for spontaneity and adventure. Here’s a list of unmissable activities to revel in the best of the summer.  RECOMMENDED: the best things to do around Japan this summer 

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

Tokyo may not have a good beach for a spot of suntanning or a cooling dip in the ocean, but you don’t have to travel far to enjoy some sun, sea and sand. Besides popular seaside retreats like Kamakura and Enoshima – both of which can get super crowded during peak seasons – there are a host of other options. Sure, these beaches may be further away and will take you a little longer to get to, but we promise it will pay off with better views, softer sand and clearer water. From seaside escapes in Chiba to the sandy shores of Shizuoka, here are some of the best beaches near Tokyo – organised according to their distance from Tokyo, starting with the one closest to the city. RECOMMENDED: The best summer destinations around Japan

While you can see drag shows and go-go boys year-round, Tokyo Pride happens but once a year: the theme for 2026 is ‘A Future Opened Up by Diversity and Equality’. As always, you can look forward to the massive Pride Festival, which welcomed over 273,000 attendees last year, plus the Pride Parade and much more.Here’s the rundown of the main events for this year’s Pride month.

Just because the weather's bad outside doesn't mean you can't enjoy Tokyo. Whether you're interested in touring some of the city's best art exhibitions, sitting down for a cup of coffee, or browsing one of city's best museums, there are lots of things you can do indoors in Tokyo. Our list of incredible indoor activities proves that regardless of the weather outside, you can always have a good time in the city. RECOMMENDED: The 20 best museums to visit in Tokyo

タイムアウト東京>ホテル>東京、2万円前後で泊まれるホテル15選 東京のような大都市で、ホテルを決めるのは大変な作業だ。リーズナブルなホステルからユニークなホテルまで、価格帯や宿泊スタイルも考えなければならない。 ここでは、主にタイムアウト東京英語チームがおすすめする1人1泊2万円以下の中級ホテルに加え、ユニークなものをいくつか追加して紹介。銀座、渋谷、下北沢、浅草など、特に東京で人気のあるエリアからピックアップした。 ※料金は、2026年5月下旬に実施した検索に基づくものとなる。料金および空室状況は変更される可能性がある ※2023年の記事をアップデート 関連記事『東京、クールなラブホテル7選』

When the summer heat kicks in, few things feel more fitting than swapping in lighter, brighter accessories around the home and wardrobe. Kamawanu’s latest summer tenugui collection does exactly that, with a vibrant range of hand-dyed cotton cloths featuring seasonal colours and playful warm-weather motifs.  Traditionally used as everyday cloths, tenugui have evolved into one of Japan’s most versatile lifestyle staples. Use them as lightweight scarves, wrap them around gifts or lunch boxes, display them as wall art, or drape them over shelves and tables for an easy seasonal update. Stop by one of Kamawanu’s Tokyo shops to explore the full line-up, alongside original clothing, eco bags, scarves, ceramics and tableware sourced from artisans around Japan. Prefer to shop from home? The collection is also available online via Kamawanu’s official website.  From refreshing seasonal motifs to minimalist patterns in cool summer hues, these are some of the standout designs to pick up this season.

Is there a more satisfying bite than the salty, smoky hit of a really, really good burger? The answer is obviously: of course not. Restaurants all over the world are crafting and griddling their own take on the classic beef burger, with homemade sauces, whacky buns, and specialty meats elevating these patties to entirely new levels. We wanted to find out where, exactly, one can find the tastiest, juiciest, most decadent and inventive burgers out there right now. So we grilled Time Out’s global team of food and drink editors about the very best burgers they’ve sunk their teeth into – then ranked them all according to the venues with the strongest star ratings on Google. The result? Fourteen lip-smacking burgers, found across some of the world’s best cities. From smashed wagyu to a ‘kitschy’ surf and turf and everything in between, these are the greatest burgers on the planet right now, each tried and tested by us. Tuck in. RECOMMENDED:🍕 The best pizzas in the world🥪 The best sandwiches in the world🥩 The best steaks in the world This list was edited by Liv Kelly, Time Out’s travel writer. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.

It’s true that Tokyo really does have everything, from the best restaurants in the world to endless shopping and even lush green spaces within the city limits. It’s way too easy to spend a whole vacation in the heart of central Tokyo. However, Japan has much more to offer than just its capital city. Get out of the city for a day (or longer, if you have time) and head south to Kanagawa hot springs, north to Tochigi for traditional shrines, or out to Yamanashi for postcard perfect views of Mt Fuji. Tokyo might have captured your heart, but these day trips will fully cement your love of Japan.   RECOMMENDED: If you're looking for a specific kind of day trip, here are the art day trips and unique Tokyo islands near the capital

タイムアウト東京 > Things to Do> 幡ヶ谷でしかできない16のこと 渋谷区の中でも下町的な空気が残り、地元の人々のつながりが色濃いローカル感あふれる街・幡ヶ谷。駅周辺は再開発を免れ、今も4つの商店街が活気を残すほか、裏路地には個豊かな飲食店やカフェ、ギャラリーが点在している。 近年は若い感性を持つオーナーによる新店舗も増え、知る人ぞ知るクリエーティブな街として注目されている。散歩しながら気になる店をホッピングできるのも魅力の一つだ。 また、明治期に玉川上水の水を引くための新水路が整備されたことにより築かれた高い土手が街に独特の起伏を生んだ。坂道沿いにユニークな店が肩を並べる景色はここにしかないだろう。  今回は、Time Out Tokyo（タイムアウト東京）の読者やフードライター、編集部の英語・日本語チーム、さらに地元の人々からも情報を集め、多角的に幡ヶ谷の魅力をまとめた。きっと訪れてみたくなるはずだ。  関連記事『世界で最もクールな20の街』

Soon it will be summer here in Japan, and for most people, the warm weather immediately calls for a visit to one of the many gorgeous beaches or islands dotted around the country. However, if you’d rather escape the sweltering sun, Japan is also home to a host of refreshing mountain resorts and rolling hillside landscapes in cooler regions such as Hokkaido.  Looking to make the most of the summer season? Start planning your next getaway to one of these beautiful destinations. RECOMMENDED: Discover the best nature escapes in Tokyo

You’ll find great burgers across Tokyo, but the smash burgers at Smash Things in Komazawa-Daigaku might just be the most delicious of them all. This tiny burger shop is known for its ultra-thin, 100 percent Japanese black wagyu patties, smashed on a blazing griddle to create an incredibly crispy crust and juicy interior.  The burgers are kept simple to highlight the beef, with just onion, original mayo-based sauce, cheese and your choice of a milk or charcoal-coloured bun. Since the patties are so thin, going for a double or triple is highly recommended. You can also opt for a bacon cheeseburger or the Oklahoma-style version loaded with sliced onions. The charcoal bun comes with white cheddar, with options like chilli cheese, mushroom or avocado basil available.  Extra toppings – tomato, lettuce, avocado, bacon, jalapeños, pickles, fried egg – are available, and the menu also features fresh-cut fries (a must), plus classic milkshakes and cocktails. With just three tables, takeaway is a smart move, especially for a picnic at nearby Komazawa Park. The restaurant is also completely dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your pet pooch along and say hi to the owner’s Boston terrier, Bella-chan. 

Osaka has recently emerged as a magnet for luxury hospitality, with the Four Seasons among the latest prestigious names to open in the vibrant metropolis. Stepping into the ground floor lobby automatically screams luxury, as you’re faced with stylish interiors courtesy of Japanese design house Curiosity. The serene ambiance is elevated by exquisite stonework, soaring lattice partitions, an amber-lacquered elevator area, and a captivating water feature that reflects the changing seasons. Enhancing the sense of refinement are carefully curated artworks thoughtfully placed throughout the hotel, including a striking Urushi sculpture by Genta Ishizuka in the lobby and a graceful piece by Ayako Ueda sitting near the pool. Located in the central Dojima district, the Four Seasons Hotel Osaka comprises 175 guest rooms, a gorgeous indoor pool, a public bath and a 24/7 fitness centre with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city skyline. The hotel also offers a modern take on the traditional ryokan experience through its exclusive Gensui floor, which features 21 Japanese-style guest rooms adorned with refined tatami flooring, futon-style sleeping platforms, and amenities such as cotton yukata robes. Those staying on this floor also have access to the Sabo tea lounge, where you can enjoy tea, bento breakfasts, and sake and wine served in the evenings. The hotel's Western-style rooms are nothing short of stunning, accented with natural wood and stone interiors, crisp white linens and

Since opening its doors in 2023, Tokyo Confidential has established itself as a standout in Tokyo’s cocktail scene. The stylish space doesn’t feel like a typical Japanese cocktail bar – not that there’s anything wrong with Tokyo’s more genteel drinking dens – as it offers a more casual and relaxed environment for you to just drop in without fussing over reservations and strict bar rules. At times, the bar doesn’t even feel like Tokyo at all – until you take in the unobstructed view of Tokyo Tower from the open-air terrace. The bar has a cosy living room vibe, and coupled with its hospitality and welcoming atmosphere, it’s easy to lose track of time here. Furthermore, the bar’s slogan of ‘pull up, fess up’ means you can drop in whenever you please to escape life’s pressures. The folks behind Tokyo Confidential have some serious street cred. Founder Holly Graham, for instance, was ranked in the top 10 of Bar World 100, a list of the globe's most influential figures in the bar industry. Head bartender Wakana Murata, on the other hand, was on the opening team of Tokyo Edition’s much-lauded Gold Bar. Plus, the bar’s food menu is supervised by chef Daniel Calvert of the three Michelin-starred Sézanne.  Tokyo Confidential’s centrepiece is a gorgeous bar counter made from a 300-year-old piece of reclaimed wood from a shrine. It’s the perfect spot to start exploring the bar’s drinks menu, where you’ll find a selection of signature cocktails including low- and no-ABV options. To keep t

When one thinks of Ginza bars, prim and prissy spaces affixed with a pricey drink list often come to mind. You can imagine how glad we were to have found Mixology Salon, which is bucking that stereotype with a relaxed attitude that also extends towards its inspired Japanese-take on cocktails. Easily accessible on the 13th floor of Ginza Six, this unpretentious space is clean and minimal yet welcoming. In fact, it looks more like a modern tea bar than an alcoholic one – and there’s a good reason for that. Specialising in what they call ‘teatails’, Mixology Salon’s signature cocktails are all made with its house blend of tea-infused spirits. You’ll find a wide range here, from hojicha-infused bourbon and soba cha vodka to oolong tea-flavoured rum and sencha gin. For first-timers, we recommend you go for a teatail course, where you can choose between three to five drinks made with a particular tea in mind. Otherwise, you can’t go wrong with the Green Tea Fashioned, a fresh take on the classic Old Fashioned. Got a sweet tooth? Order the Hoji Cha cocktail, which is a mix of buckwheat tea-infused vodka and pineapple and finished with a surprising hint of miso. Note: ¥800 table charge applies per person. Price exclusive of consumption tax.

Terunari puts a creative spin on kaiseki by incorporating French influences that shine through in each and every dish. French- trained chef Kanichi Tokumoto runs the kitchen, working under chef Akihiko Murata of Terunari’s Michelin-starred sister restaurant Suzunari. Chef Tokumoto doesn’t stress over hyper-seasonality and instead works with whatever the kitchen is given, not necessarily just with what’s in season. You can look forward to unique reinterpretations of classic Japanese dishes, such as a crisp monaka (wafer sandwich, usually sweet) filled with chicken liver pâté, and chawanmushi egg custard made more substantial with beef tendon and a hint of wasabi. The more classic kaiseki- style dishes range from sardines simmered with ume plum and ginger to tuna served with red konjac, and aji (mackerel) layered with cucumber and a savoury miso tartar which packs an umami punch. Seasonality is expressed through the details: decorations include seasonal leaves and twigs, while the colours are bright and vibrant, making them not just appetising but photogenic too. The meal ends with a shime (loosely translated as ‘coming to a close’), where you’re served Terunari’s signature rice dish, a combination of sweet pork marinated in shoyu and mirin, and steamed with a perfectly plump tomato and fresh basil inside a Japanese claypot. Once cooked, the rice is mixed up at your table and topped with a good dose of cheese, turning it into a Japanese risotto of sorts. For fans of kaiseki,

Run by a charming husband-and-wife duo for the past eight years, Kudan Otsuka is classic kaiseki at its best. The quaint space is situated across the street from Yasukuni Shrine, whose calm surrounds extend into the restaurant. To keep things fresh, the menu changes monthly, highlighting seasonal ingredients in a traditional yet original way. Expect wow-inducing dishes featuring unique ingredients you may have never seen or tried before. Our meal started with a deceivingly simple soup (or owan, which literally means bowl in Japanese). The clear broth was accented with a tender chunk of winter melon, silky smooth somen noodles, okura and junsai (watershield, whose leaves have a slimy coating). This was followed by a four- appetiser platter served on a beautiful fan-shaped plate: a sunomono salad was given a twist by replacing the conventional cucumber with figs inside a vinegar jelly; a traditional summer kaiseki coupling of daikon and octopus had been simmered in a flavourful soy broth until tender; a selection of summer vegetables fried karaage-style in an unbelievably light batter; and there was an inspired pairing of yuba (tofu skin) and raw shiro ebi (white shrimp) topped with wasabi for a light kick.

Commonly associated with sumo wrestlers looking to get a calorie-packed meal to bulk up for an upcoming match, and hungry diners seeking something warm during the cold months, nabe or Japanese-style hotpot also has a more refined side. Enter Negima, an unassuming restaurant in Kita-Ikebukuro, which specialises in Edo-style maguro (tuna) and negi (Welsh onion) nabe. Contrary to its big servings, the restaurant is tiny and only seats eight. Negima is inspired by nabe from the Edo era prior to the invention of refrigerators, when fresh produce especially fish couldn’t be kept for long. So folks back then had to use up the ingredients by dropping them all into a pot of flavourful dashi broth where everything would be cooked thoroughly. Nabe at Negima is served as a course meal. You start with an Edo-style tamagoyaki, or egg roll, which has been lightly seasoned with katsuo dashi and shoyu. Pair it with sake and you’re off to a good start. Next, you’ll be presented with a beautiful platter of nabe ingredients before they are cooked inside a light dashi broth along with wakame seaweed and fresh greens. You’ll be able to sample various cuts of tuna, including the haramo (belly) and kama toro (gill flesh); they are both equally tender and elevated to another level with just a sprinkle of hand-crushed pepper. The thick slices of negi are cooked until soft and make for a refreshing relief between mouthfuls of tuna. To finish, you get to savour all that flavourful broth that’s been si

The popular frames from the leading South Korean eyewear brand Gentle Monster have finally opened up shop in Hong Kong with their very first flagship store. Fashionistas in the SAR can now get their hands on the very sunglasses worn by Korean pop stars to sleek frame styles you won't find anywhere else. The new flagship shop in Causeway Bay is themed after a train platform giving visitors a unique shopping experience similar to Seoul's ever-changing 'Quantum Project' concept stores. 

Celebrate more than 40 years of Agnès B as they open their brand new concept store in Causeway Bay's Fashion Walk. The Rue du Jour shop is named after the very first Agnès B Femme shop, which opened in Paris back in 1975. Get your hands on your favourite items from the Sport B, Voyage and Bijoux collections along with a bite to eat at the B Cafe and a colourful bouquet from B Fleuriste. 

Step into the brand new Adidas flagship store for all your go-to sporting needs from clothing and shoes to accessories. The new shop is also home to the all-new Adidas Training Academy where you can kick yourself into gear with your new sportswear while working up a sweat at one of the free training programmes followed by a visit to the Refresh Zone to freshen up in their shower facilities and vanity areas.

After earning three Michelin stars for Sézanne at Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi, chef Daniel Calvert announced earlier this year that he would leave the hotel restaurant after five years. While many wondered what his next move would be, it’s now been revealed: Calvert’s first independent restaurant, Chez Calvert, will open at Azabudai Hills on October 1. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Daniel Calvert BEM (@_danielcalvert) Hailing from the UK, Calvert honed his skills at some of the world’s best kitchens in London, New York and Paris before taking charge at Belon in Hong Kong. In 2021, he moved to Tokyo to open Sézanne, leading the restaurant to three Michelin stars within just three years, as well as the No 1 spot in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants and No 7 in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Calvert was also awarded the British Empire Medal in 2026 for his contributions to the culinary arts and UK-Japan culinary relations. So far, little has been revealed about the new restaurant, but Calvert is working closely with architectural designer John Pawson to create an elegant, minimalist interior, while the cuisine will be rooted in French tradition and showcase Japan’s exceptional seasonal ingredients. If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo this autumn and hope to dine at the restaurant, know that reservations open on August 1 via Omakase. More from Time Out Tokyo 4 indulgent desserts and drinks to try in Tokyo this summer FamilyMart’s Nigo-dire

春は桜やチューリップ、フジの花が注目される季節だが、夏になると主役の座を奪うのが「ヒマワリ」だ。東京近郊には、黄色一色に染まる広大なヒマワリ畑が数多くあり、花の中を散策したり、ヒマワリをテーマにしたグルメを味わったり、ヒマワリ迷路を巡ったりできる。見頃は7月から8月末にかけてで、遅咲きの品種なら9月まで楽しめるスポットもある。本記事では、2026年夏に訪れたいヒマワリの名所を紹介する。 Photo: Kiyose Sunflower Festival 石井ファーム（東京都清瀬市） 約10万本の鮮やかなヒマワリが咲き誇る「清瀬ひまわりフェスティバル」は、東京郊外の清瀬市で7月26日（日）まで開催されている。 約2万4000平方メートルの広大なヒマワリ畑は、毎年、農作物の肥料となる緑肥用のヒマワリを地元農家が育てているもの。背の高いヒマワリが一面に広がる壮大な景色を望めるほか、会場では地元野菜や切り花の販売も行われ、地域農業を応援しながら夏の絶景を堪能できる。 Photo: Seibu Landscape Co., Ltd. あけぼの山農業公園（千葉県柏市） 柏市にある自然豊かな「あけぼの山農業公園」では、約8万本の満開のヒマワリが観賞できる。入園料・駐車場ともに無料で、風鈴や絵本などオリジナルグッズも販売される予定。ヒマワリは7月末に刈り取られるため、見頃の時期を逃さず訪れてほしい。 Photo: Seibu Landscape Co., Ltd.Sunflowers at Yokosuka Soleil Hill, Kanagawa 長井海の手公園 ソレイユの丘（神奈川県横須賀市） 毎年美しいヒマワリ畑が広がる、横須賀にある「長井海の手公園 ソレイユの丘」。7月中旬から8月にかけて約10万本のヒマワリが咲き、晴れた日には相模湾越しに富士山も望める。8月30日（日）までは、ヒマワリを使ったフードやドリンクも登場。見頃のピークは8月上旬ごろだ。 View this post on Instagram A post shared by 【公式】成田ゆめ牧場 (@yumebokujo) 成田ゆめ牧場（千葉県成田市） 2種類のヒマワリを栽培する「成田ゆめ牧場」では、約10万本の花が咲く夏ならではの景色が楽しめる。 見頃は7月中旬から8月末まで。今年はヒマワリエリアへは無料で入れるが、牧場への入場料（1,600円、土・日曜・祝日1,800円、子ども半額）が必要だ。牧場体験やワークショップができるのもうれしい。 View this post on Instagram A post shared by @遠藤ファーム　◼️環境保全循環型農業◼️花を肥料に育てる野菜とハチミツの販売🌻ファーマーネイチャー(自然派)撮影の運営 (@endo_farm) 遠藤ファーム（埼玉県） 群馬県との県境を流れる利根川沿いに位置する「遠藤ファーム」では、美しいヒマワリ畑と養蜂の魅力に触れられる。 見頃の時期には、10カ所の畑に約100万本のヒマワリが咲き誇る。ヒマワリを使った迷路も登場し、入場は無料。帰りには、ヒマワリから採れた蜂蜜の購入もできる。 View this post on Instagram A post shared by あけのひまわりフェスティバル【公式】 (@akeno.himawari.festival) あけのひま

One of the many joys of summer is indulging in seasonal treats, from refreshing kakigori and luscious ice cream to innovative cocktails. It’s also the perfect time to enjoy Japan’s exceptional fruit, with dessert and pastry shops across the country serving up sweets showcasing the best produce of the season, including peaches, melons, mangoes, grapes, citrus and more. If you’re looking for the ultimate summer treat, don’t miss these luxurious seasonal desserts and drinks, available for a limited time only. Bon appétit! Photo: Trunk HotelTrunk Kitchen x Asako Iwayanagi Parfait Bijou® Pêche Trunk Kitchen x Asako Iwayanagi Parfait Bijou® Pêche Patisserie Asako Iwayanagi is one of Tokyo’s most celebrated pastry shops, earning owner-chef Asako Iwayanagi a place on the city’s must-visit dessert map thanks to her heavenly parfaits that look more like works of art than edible treats. This summer, the pastry shop has teamed up with Trunk Kitchen at Trunk Hotel Cat Street for the seasonal Parfait Bijou® Pêche (¥5,000), available at the restaurant from July 18 to August 31. This luxurious parfait showcases seasonal peaches, complemented by gelato made with rare Tsuyuhikari green tea from Shizuoka prefecture, coconut meringue, elderflower jelly streusel, hojicha crèmeux, hibiscus agar jelly, zunda bean paste, and marinated peaches with shiso and myoga. The parfait comes with a tea pairing, or you can opt for an alcoholic pairing for an additional ¥800. A smaller version of the parfait

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 100,000 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 late July to late August, with peak blooms expected in early August this year. 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 is also a special food menu available until August 30. The sunflower-inspired treats on offer include doughnuts shaped as the bright yellow flower, a sunflower mango shake, sunflower mango lassi, sunflower-shaped pizza 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 16 2026. More from Time Out Tokyo 7 best places to s

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, though they’re blooming slightly earlier than usual this year, with some fields already reaching their peak. Late-blooming varieties will still be around in September. Here are our top sunflower spots to check out this summer.   Photo: Kiyose Sunflower Festival Ishii Farm Kiyose, Tokyo Featuring 100,000 bright yellow himawari, the Kiyose Sunflower Festival takes place from July 18 to July 26 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 towering sunflowers while supporting local farmers by purchasing fresh local vegetables and cut flowers sold at the venue. Photo: Seibu Landscape Co., Ltd. Akebonoyama Agricultural Park, Chiba This gorgeous agricultural park in Kashiwa city is home to approximately 80,000 sunflowers, which bloom from mid- to late July. The park is hosting a summer festival on July 18 and 19, so stop by and enjoy the flowers in full bloom. Admission and parking a

世界最大規模となる「オニツカタイガー」のグローバル旗艦店が、2026年7月10日、新宿にオープンした。約1837平方メートルの広さを誇る店舗は、4フロアと、ゲームやエンターテインメントを楽しめるメザニンフロアで構成。日本とイタリアのデザインを融合させた空間で、両国のクラフツマンシップとクリエーティビティーを表現している。 店内は、ブランドのアーカイブを現代的に再解釈した「Heritage（Onitsuka Tiger）」、「ミラノ・ファッションウィーク」　で発表される「Contemporary（ONITSUKA TIGER）」、フォーマルシューズを展開する「Formality（THE ONITSUKA）」など、オニツカタイガーの幅広いコレクションを取り扱う。 Photo: Onitsuka TigerOnitsuka Tiger Shinjuku Global Flagship 1階は黒を基調とした床にブランドカラーのタイガーイエローを取り入れたデザインで、アパレルやバッグ、サングラスなどのアクセサリーが並ぶ。『鉄腕アトム』とのコラボレーションアイテムも展示されている。 Photo: Onitsuka TigerOnitsuka Tiger Shinjuku Global Flagship Photo: Onitsuka TigerOnitsuka Tiger Shinjuku Global Flagship 2階には、1970年代のイタリアンデザインに着想を得た家具を配置し、細部まで日本製にこだわった「NIPPON MADE」を中心に展開。3階はギャラリーのような空間で、スニーカーをゆったりと選べるフロアとなっている。 Photo: Onitsuka TigerOnitsuka Tiger Shinjuku Global Flagship 中でも注目は、ゲームセンターの大手「GiGO」とのコラボレーションによるブランド初のアミューズメントエリアだ。バスケットボールゲームやドライビングシミュレーター、巨大なカプセルトイマシンやフォトブースなどを備え、ショッピングだけでなく体験も楽しめる。 営業時間は11～20時。買い物だけでなく、ゲームや体験を通して「オニツカタイガー」の世界観に触れられる新たな拠点となるだろう。 関連記事 『麻布台にNIGO・片山正通らが手がけたクリエーターコンビニが登場』 『「野田琺瑯」の製品がフルナインアップ、清澄白河に初の直営店がオープン』 『完全会員制のエンターテインメント居酒屋「ももまる」に突撃してきた』 『けやき坂の名店「Lauderdale」が麻布台ヒルズで生まれ変わる』 『学芸大学の「Bababa - 333」が一新、アジアのビンテージと新世代デザインが集う』 東京の最新情報をタイムアウト東京のメールマガジンでチェックしよう。登録はこちら

With the recent heat, it finally feels like summer is officially here to stay. And with the city packed with festivals and fireworks, there’s plenty to look forward to throughout the warmer months. This coming long weekend includes Sea Day, making it the perfect excuse to head to one of the many beaches near Tokyo – or stay in the city and experience one of its lively traditional festivals. From joyous Bon Odori dances to atmospheric lantern light-ups, here are the festivals you shouldn’t miss. Photo: Shota NagaoSendagaya Bon Odori Festival Sendagaya Bon Odori Festival July 17-18 Hatonomori Hachiman Shrine is celebrating a Bon Odori festival on the evenings of July 17 and 18. You can expect food stalls set up by local businesses, as well as games and activities for children. Plus, of course, the requisite communal dancing.  Come at 4pm to learn the choreography, and you can join in one of the Bon Odori dances happening at 5.30pm, 7pm or 7.50pm (5.30pm, 6.45pm and 8pm on Saturday).  画像提供：大盆踊り会実行委員会Daibon Daibon July 18 Get ready to get your groove on at Daibon on Saturday July 18, a modern rendition of the traditional Bon Odori festival held at Hachiman Shrine in Yamatocho. Here, the festivities include a line-up of DJs and contemporary artists, merging the timeless customs with the energetic pulse of new-wave beats.  Watch as the festival comes alive with live DJ sets, which have in the past featured eclectic talents like Chinbantei Goraku Shisho and the invigorating perf

In a city with so many incredible places to shop, it’s no surprise that many global brands have chosen Tokyo for their flagship stores. More than just retail spaces, these destinations let you experience everything a brand has to offer through unique concepts that take your shopping excursion to the next level. The latest on our radar is the brand new Onitsuka Tiger global flagship store in Shinjuku, which officially opened its doors on July 10. Blending Japanese and Italian design influences, the space celebrates the craftsmanship and creativity of both countries in the heart of Tokyo. The massive store is now the brand’s largest flagship in the world, spanning 1,837sqm across four floors, including an entire mezzanine level dedicated to entertainment and games. You can shop Onitsuka Tiger’s full range of merchandise, including the ‘Heritage’ line, which reinterprets archive pieces; the ‘Contemporary’ collection, presented at Milan Fashion Week; and the ‘Formality’ line, which highlights the brand’s formal footwear.  Photo: Onitsuka TigerOnitsuka Tiger Shinjuku Global Flagship Each floor has its own distinct look, with the first featuring striking black flooring, bright yellow display cases and Giallo Siena marble to create a bold welcome. Here, you can browse clothing as well as accessories like handbags and sunglasses. There's also display cases dedicated to Onitsuka Tiger's special Astro Boy collaboration. Photo: Onitsuka TigerOnitsuka Tiger Shinjuku Global Flagship T

If you love scouring the shelves of Japanese convenience stores, there’s a new konbini in Tokyo that you will want to check out. Located next to Azabudai Hills, the brand new Famima Park Azabudai is FamilyMart’s first flagship store, directed by fashion designer and entrepreneur Nigo®. Opened on July 10, the stylish store offers a fresh take on the konbini experience, with exclusive flagship merchandise and the brand’s full Convenience Wear collection.  Photo: Kisa Toyoshima外観 It’s the perfect place to stop for a quick break, grab a snack or pick up souvenirs. What’s more, the store caters to international visitors, with staff who can communicate in five languages. Despite its elevated concept, it’s still a fully functioning convenience store, open 24 hours a day and stocked with all the usual staples, from onigiri rice balls and bottled tea to Famichiki fried chicken. Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaFAMIMA PARK AZABUDAI While Nigo took care of the direction, the architecture and retail space were designed by Masamichi Katayama of Wonderwall. The building features a curved façade made with Moktex, a plaster-finish decorative concrete, and a glass-walled interior that gives the space an open, modern feel.  Photo: Kisa Toyoshimaコンビニウェア売り場 One of the store’s highlights is its full Convenience Wear collection, developed in collaboration with fashion designer Hiromichi Ochiai and displayed in a way that makes you feel like you’re browsing a fashion boutique rather than a convenience st

日本の「カワイイ」文化を体現する愛らしいぬいぐるみ作品で知られる作家、片岡メリヤス。『Time Out Japan Magazine』の特別号として、4月に発行された「The New Kawaii」特集で紹介され、同特集の表紙を飾った木の作品も話題となった。今回、新たなコラボレーションとして、片岡が手がけるイラストを使った限定プリントが、ファミリーマートの「ファミマプリント」で販売されている。 ラインアップには、2026年後半用のカレンダーをはじめ、サンキューカード、メモ帳、迷路など、日常で使えるさまざまなペーパーアイテムを用意。日本のコンビニエンスストアでしか手に入らない、ユニークな土産としても楽しめる。 Photo: Time Out TokyoPostcard print outs プリントサイズはポストカードとB5からA3まで対応し、料金は200～300円。全ラインアップは「ファミマプリント」の公式ウェブサイトで紹介されている。 販売期間は2026年12月31日（木）まで。全国のファミリーマート店舗に設置されているマルチコピー機から印刷できる。 関連記事 『東京、夏の夜にしか楽しめないイベント10選』 『東京、7月にリバイバル上映される映画』 『サンタモニカの夕景を横浜で体感、「Red Brick Sunset 2026」が開催』 『54年の歴史に幕を閉じる岩波神保町ビルで、イマーシブ公演「僕たちの映画館」が開催』 『遊び心は、時代を超える「ピカソ meets ポール・スミス」鑑賞レポート』 東京の最新情報をタイムアウト東京のメールマガジンでチェックしよう。登録はこちら

If you read our New Kawaii issue a few months ago, you may already be familiar with Meriyasu Kataoka, the soft-toy artist whose adorable tree graced our double cover. If you can’t get enough of her plush creations, you’ll want to check out this exciting collaboration with FamilyMart. Famima Print is now offering a collection of printable paper goods featuring Kataoka’s artwork, including a calendar page for the second half of 2026, a maze, thank you card and lined note pages. They make fun, unique souvenirs that you can only get in Japan. View this post on Instagram A post shared by 片岡メリヤス (@kataokameriyasu) The designs are available until December 31 and can be printed out at the copy machines in FamilyMart stores nationwide. While the machine instructions are all in Japanese, we've broken down the process so you can easily print them yourself in store.  Photo: Time Out TokyoStart by pressing the 'copy' button on the bottom right Firstly, you'll want to tap the ‘コピー’ (copy) button on the very bottom right of the machine screen. Photo: Time Out TokyoPress the 'Famima Print' button Then you'll click 'Famima Print' and the '同意する’ (agree to the terms of use) button on the bottom right. Photo: Time Out TokyoPress 'enter print number' From there, hit 'プリント番号入力’ (enter print number) and type in the specific code of the print you want. The codes are all listed under each print design by the size of paper you wish to print out. You can also scan the rel

While Tokyo is home to many outstanding bars, there’s one that, until now, you could only experience in Kyoto. The ancient capital’s renowned Ki No Bi House has teamed up with the JW Marriott Hotel Tokyo to launch the Ki No Bi Room, a limited-time pop-up within the hotel’s hidden drinking den, 4-0-3. Here, you can savour the artisanal gin producer’s signature cocktails from now through October. Photo: JW Marriott Hotel TokyoJW Marriott Hotel Tokyo – Ki No Bi Room (4-0-3) Featuring stunning views of Tokyo’s skyline and a relaxing interior reminiscent of Kyoto, the 4-0-3 space is the ideal setting to recreate the atmosphere of Ki No Bi House in the heart of the capital. The bar offers exclusive seasonal cocktails made with Japanese botanicals, with the menu changing every two months.  Photo: JW Marriott Hotel TokyoSeasonal cocktails at Ki No Bi Room For July and August, the bar is serving a unique cocktail and sweets pairing experience, featuring three cocktails crafted with Ki No Bi gin alongside elegant chocolates created by JW Marriott Hotel Tokyo’s executive pastry chef, Shigeru Nojima. Photo: JW Marriott Hotel TokyoShe Thought See Saw Paradise The summer cocktail line-up includes ‘She Thought See Saw Paradise’, a refreshing and easy-drinking twist on the classic Paradise cocktail made with Ki No Bi Kyoto Dry Gin, Darjeeling tea, blood orange juice, apricot brandy, red shiso juice and mint. It is paired with a bitter chocolate tart featuring a Jardin Bleu tea ganache