Kaila Imada

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

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

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.

タイムアウト東京 > Things To Do > 日本発「変かわ」キャラクター5選 日本のかわいいは、いわゆる「ザ・かわいい」だけではない。ちょっと変でクセのあるキャラクターも、カルチャーをより魅力的にしている。 独特すぎるビジュアルや、突き抜けたキャラ設定を持つ「変かわ」な存在は、気づいたときには心（とお財布）をがっちりつかんでいる。ここでは、そんな奇妙さとかわいさが絶妙に融合した個性派キャラクターたちの世界を、豊富なグッズとともに紹介する。

Kawaii in Japan isn’t always about the traditionally adorable. Rather, it’s often the odd and quirky sides of the culture that make it so appealing. From characters with uncanny designs to those sporting downright wacky personalities, hen-kawa (‘weird cute’) figures have a way of capturing the hearts (and wallets) of many. Here, we dive into the world of these offbeat characters, where strange and sweet come together in the most delightful ways, with plenty of fun merch to match.

Practical and beautiful, tenugui from Kamawanu can be used in countless ways. Available in a wide range of colours and designs, these versatile cloths are a testament to Japanese craftsmanship, prized for their durability and longevity. While we’ve explored different ways to use them across fashion, décor, sports and the kitchen, what better way to see their versatility than through the daily lives of three tenugui users? We meet a ramen chef, an artist and a kendo practitioner in Tokyo to see how they incorporate tenugui into their work, passions and everyday life.

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.

While spring might be the best time to enjoy iconic flowers like cherry blossoms, wisteria and tulips, summer can be an equally rewarding period for bloom-spotters. Hydrangeas are now coming into season, and you can catch their colourful blooms at parks, shrines and neighbourhoods across Tokyo. The flowers typically flourish during Japan’s rainy season, which has yet to officially begin, but this year they’ve arrived slightly ahead of schedule, with many blooms already nearing their peak. To help you catch these seasonal beauties at their best, we visited some of central Tokyo’s popular hydrangea hotspots to see how the flowers are progressing. Here’s what we saw. Photo: Kaila ImadaSumida Park Sumida Park, June 1 If you’re in Asakusa doing some sightseeing, it’s worth stopping by nearby Sumida Park for a stroll along the park’s 2km promenade, known as Ajisai (Hydrangea) Road. The route is lined with more than 7,000 hydrangea bushes spanning a variety of species, and offers lovely views of Tokyo Skytree in the background. You’ll find Ajisai Road on the Asakusa side of Sumida Park, stretching between Azumabashi Bridge and Yamaya-bori Plaza. When we visited earlier this week, the flowers were well on their way to full bloom, with many of the blue, white and purple hydrangeas already flourishing. It was a particularly hot day, so some of the blooms were beginning to wilt, but they should perk up once the rainy season arrives. Photo: Kaila ImadaHakusan Shrine Hakusan Shrine, J

食通の間では、東京といえば寿司やラーメン、ミシュランガイドの星付きレストランで知られている。だが、気分によっては、シンプルかつとてもおいしいハンバーガーほど満足感のあるものはない。うれしいことに、東京はそんなハンバーガーを楽しむのにぴったりの街だ。国内発のチェーンをはじめ、上質な牛肉を使ったグルメバーガーを提供する専門店も数多く揃っている。 それを裏付けるように、タイムアウトワールドワイドが発表したばかりの「世界のベストバーガー」ランキングでは、東京のハンバーガーが存在感を示している。 このリストでは、世界14都市のハンバーガーを紹介。いずれもタイムアウトの編集者たちが選んだもので、Googleレビューの星評価に基づいて順位付けされた。 Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaSmash Things 東京からランク入りし、そしてトップに輝いたのは、駒沢オリンピック公園からほど近い場所にある、小さなバーガーショップ「smash things」のスマッシュバーガーだ。 同店は、黒毛和牛を100％使用した極薄のパティで知られる。こうした上質な肉があるからこそ、日本が世界最高峰のハンバーガーを生み出す国の一つに数えられるのも納得がいく。「smash things」では、パティは高温に熱した鉄板に押し付けて焼き上げることで、表面はカリッと香ばしく、中はジューシーに仕上げられる。 シグネチャーメニューの「和牛クラシックスマッシュバーガー」の構成は、和牛のおいしさを引き立てるため、あえてシンプル。トッピングはオニオン、チーズ、オリジナルのマヨネーズベースソースのみで、バンズにはミルクと竹炭の2種類がある。 パティが薄いため、ダブルまたはトリプルでの注文がおすすめ。ベーコンチーズバーガーや、スライスオニオンをたっぷり使ったオクラホマスタイルなど、ほかの種類を選んでもいいだろう。 竹炭のバンズを使ったバーガーにも、チリチーズ、マッシュルーム、アボカドとバジルをトッピングしたものなど、さまざまなバリエーションがある。 Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaSmash Things 世界各地の絶品バーガーをもっと知りたいなら、タイムアウトが選ぶ「世界のベストバーガー」の全リストをチェックしてほしい。 関連記事 『One of the world’s best burgers is right here in Tokyo（原文）』 『This Tokyo burger has just been named the best in the world』 『東京、ニューヨークスタイルピザ5選』 『DJ・須永辰緒によるレコードバー「moderno」が駒沢大学にオープン』 『二子玉川にマッシーフやミッケラーバーガーら個性的な人気店が集結したフードコートが誕生』 『東京、ひと足先に夏を感じるかき氷5選』 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 hydrangeas already blooming across Tokyo and Pride Month underway, the city is bursting with things to see and do. June brings a jam-packed calendar of festivals, celebrations and community events, among them three traditional festivals that will take over the city streets with lively parades, ornate mikoshi (portable shrines) and plenty of local culture on display. Better yet, two of these festivals are taking place in their grandest form this year, making for a particularly rare and spectacular experience. And this is just the beginning of the season’s festivities – many more summer festivals are still to come in July and August. Here are the June festivals you should mark on your calendar:  写真提供：台東区　鳥越祭り　鳥越神社Torigoe Matsuri Torigoe Matsuri See a huge four-tonne portable shrine being shuttled through the streets near Torigoe Shrine in Asakusabashi at this traditional festival known for the intense fights that invariably break out over who gets to carry the monster mikoshi.  The main event is on Sunday June 7 from 6.50am to 9pm, when the mikoshi is carried through the streets. If you want to catch the best of the action in the glow of beautifully lit lanterns, be there at around 8.30pm to see the mikoshi make its way back to the shrine.  Meanwhile on Saturday June 6, local neighbourhood associations parade their own, much smaller portable shrines around the area. Also don’t miss the food stalls that are set up along the streets during the festival.  Photo: Chiyoda Ci

The Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi first opened in 2002 and has since become a fixture in Tokyo’s luxury hotel scene. Its location in the heart of Marunouchi, just steps from Tokyo Station, makes it an especially convenient base for exploring both the city and the rest of Japan, while glitzy Ginza is also within easy walking distance for shopping and dining. While the Four Seasons brand now operates two hotels in Tokyo – including the newer Otemachi property – the Marunouchi location officially reopened on April 29 following a nearly year-long renovation. The extensive revamp has given the hotel a fresh new look, further cementing it as a top choice for visitors to the capital. We recently stayed a few nights at the newly reopened hotel and were impressed by its beautifully redesigned rooms, excellent dining options and top-notch personalised service, all of which made for a memorable stay.  Photo: Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at MarunouchiFour Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi The property feels far more intimate than its Otemachi counterpart, with just 57 guest rooms and an expanded concierge programme that ensures guests feel well taken care of from check-in to check-out.  Photo: Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at MarunouchiFour Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi Upon arrival, you’re welcomed into a serene lobby that feels worlds away from the bustle of the city outside. Here, you can check in from the comfort of cosy lounge seating, making it feel more like entering a pri

While Tokyo is known among foodies especially for its sushi, ramen and Michelin-starred dining, sometimes nothing hits the spot quite like a really good classic burger. Fortunately the capital is a great place to indulge in one, thanks to its abundance of homegrown burger chains and speciality restaurants serving gourmet creations made with top-notch beef. To prove our point, Time Out Worldwide’s just-released roundup of the world’s best burgers has Tokyo in a prominent spot. The roundup features burgers from 14 cities worldwide, each personally selected by Time Out editors and listed according to their Google star ratings. The Tokyo restaurant to make the list is Smash Things – a tiny burger shop located in Komazawa-Daigaku, just a short distance from Komazawa Park.  Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaSmash Things Smash Things is known for its ultra-thin patties made with 100 percent Japanese black wagyu beef – the kind of premium meat that makes Japan an obvious contender for some of the world’s best burgers. The beef is smashed on a blazing-hot griddle to create a crispy crust and juicy interior, while the burgers are kept intentionally simple to let the wagyu shine, topped only with onion, cheese and original mayo-based sauce, then served on your choice of a milk or charcoal-coloured bun. Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaSmash Things Since the patties are thin, it's recommended to order a double or triple, but you can also opt for other versions like the bacon cheeseburger or the Oklahoma-styl

In somewhat surprising news, the Hands Shibuya flagship store has announced that it will permanently close this November due to the expiration of its lease agreement. The long-standing store has been a staple shopping destination in Shibuya for nearly 48 years, supplying locals and tourists alike with everything from knick-knacks and craft supplies to kitchenware, souvenirs and everyday accessories. Spanning seven floors and approximately 5,500 square metres, the massive retail space has long been a local landmark as well as a go-to shopping spot in the neighbourhood. In 2023, the store underwent a major rebrand, changing its name from Tokyu Hands to simply Hands following the company’s acquisition by home improvement group Cainz Corporation. The rebrand also introduced a new logo design. The store’s final day of business has yet to be announced, but we’ll update this story once more details are revealed. More from Time Out Tokyo Tokyo's life-size Unicorn Gundam statue in Odaiba will be retired this AugustGuitar legend Masayoshi Takanaka’s new Japan tour kicks off this summerA new sushi restaurant from the team behind Udatsu Sushi opens in OmotesandoA brand new digital art space is coming to Ariake this JuneReview: Is the new Sailor Moon Shining Theater show in Tokyo worth the hype? 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.

It seems summer is arriving earlier and earlier each year, with Tokyo and several other parts of Japan already experiencing warmer-than-usual temperatures in mid-May.  This past weekend was particularly toasty, with the capital getting its first day of summer-like temperatures: the city recorded a high of 30.2 degrees Celsius on Sunday May 17. According to Weather News, that’s roughly equivalent to the average maximum temperature seen in mid-July, going by data for the past 30 years. Sunday also marked Tokyo’s earliest 30-degree day in the past five years, arriving three days earlier than it did in 2025. The current sunny conditions are being caused by a high-pressure system covering Japan, resulting in temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius across parts of Tohoku and Kyushu, too. According to the weather network, this heat spell is expected to continue through Tuesday May 19, with officials advising people to take precautions against heatstroke. To keep up-to-date on the latest weather conditions, check the Weather News website. More from Time Out Tokyo A new sushi restaurant from the team behind Udatsu Sushi opens in Omotesando A brand new digital art space is coming to Ariake this June Satisfy your guilty cravings with these unhealthy yet gratifying convenience store treatsReview: Is the new Sailor Moon Shining Theater show in Tokyo worth the hype?Try playing the taiko in the heart of Tokyo with this beginner-friendly class Want to be the first to know what’s cool in Tokyo

A few years ago, Udatsu Sushi became one of Tokyo’s most talked-about omakase spots after earning Michelin stars in 2023 and 2024 for its inventive approach to sushi, including vegetarian-friendly omakase courses. Since then, Udatsu has expanded with outposts in Hong Kong and Los Angeles, and is now taking things a step further with a brand new restaurant in Tokyo. Hisashi Sushi opened its doors on April 15 in the heart of Omotesando. Supervised by chef Hisashi Udatsu, the new hotspot reimagines traditional Edomae sushi through a more casual, contemporary dining experience. 画像提供：HISASHI SUSHI The restaurant has room for 22 guests – 19 seated at the counter and three standing – and centres on a striking sushi counter made from Aso lava stone, framed by a U-shaped dining counter crafted from fragrant Kiso cypress. 画像提供：HISASHI SUSHI Built around the concept of ‘Tokyo code. Edomae wisdom’, the restaurant presents sushi as an art form, channelling the city’s urban energy while encouraging guests to enjoy Edomae sushi in an approachable setting. 画像提供：HISASHI SUSHI Prix fixe meals and à la carte options are available, with lunch ranging from ¥2,420 to ¥6,050, while dinner starts at ¥12,100. À la carte highlights include dishes like minced tuna cutlet (¥880) and steamed abalone with liver sauce (¥1,650). 画像提供：HISASHI SUSHI Like the original Udatsu, Hisashi Sushi places great emphasis on detail. The organic sushi rice is sourced from Kumamoto, where it’s grown using naturally

You’ll be on cloud nine at the Unkai Terrace in Hokkaido – literally. An extension of Hoshino Resorts Tomamu, the Unkai Terrace is centred around the concept of enjoying unkai (sea of clouds) from a high altitude. The outdoor attraction is usually closed from autumn through late spring, but is reopening for the green season on May 13 and is will welcome visitors through October 13 2026.  Photo: Hoshino ResortsCloud Walk The facility features seven unique vantage points, which can be accessed by taking a gondola from the bottom of Mt Tomamu and riding to an elevation of 1,088 metres. The main observation deck got an extended deck in 2021 and now protrudes even farther from the mountain. From here, you’ll get an ethereal view of the seasonal phenomenon where soft white clouds appear to form an ocean with the peaks of surrounding mountains poking out like islands.  Photo: Hoshino ResortsCloud Bed The other lookout points aren’t your typical viewing platforms, either. There’s the Cloud Walk, which is shaped like a cloud and structured like a suspension bridge to provide a 210-degree view, as well as the Cloud Bed, made of elastic cushions for people to lie down or lean back on as they look up at the sky above. Photo: Hoshino ResortsCloud Pool The mesh Cloud Pool looks a bit like a hammock, and a relaxing one at that, as you can look over the side of it or lounge on it as the cloud formations shift around you. There’s also the 117m-long Contour Bench, perfect for lounging, a

After much speculation, The Weeknd has finally announced the final dates for his After Hours Til Dawn tour – and it all begins here in Tokyo. The 2026 Asia leg of the hugely popular tour kicks off on Sunday September 20 at Belluna Dome in Saitama before heading to Jakarta, Singapore, Seoul, Bangkok, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Abel (@theweeknd) Accompanying the Grammy Award-winning artist is Japanese hip-hop duo Creepy Nuts, who will perform at most dates on the tour, alongside another local fave, DJ Yousuke Yukimatsu, who is set to appear at select shows across Asia. The tour – which has been ongoing since 2022 – has grossed more than US$1 billion across 153 shows, following recent dates in the UK, Europe and Latin America, cementing The Weeknd as the highest-grossing solo male touring artist ever. As the newly announced Asia dates mark the final chapter of the world tour, this may be your last chance to see The Weeknd live. Presale begins on May 18, and fans can sign up for updates via The Weeknd’s official tour website until May 15. Presale times will vary by city and be sent directly to registered fans by email. General sales for the Tokyo shows have yet to be announced, so keep an eye on the website for updates. More from Time Out Tokyo The official Hatsune Miku store is now open in Harajuku Satisfy your guilty cravings with these unhealthy yet gratifying convenience store treatsReview: Is the new Sailor M

Elusive and hugely influential, Martin Margiela has long been known as fashion’s ‘anonymous designer’, his mystery only deepening the intrigue around his work. Now, for the first time in Japan, the Belgian is presenting a major solo exhibition titled ‘Martin Margiela at Kudan House’, which is running until April 29. Since stepping away from his namesake brand in 2008, Margiela has focused his talents on visual art, making this a rare chance to experience his world beyond fashion.  Photo: Kisa Toyoshima『Bus Stop』（2020年） The exhibition takes place at Kudan House, a 1927 Spanish-style residence designated as an Important Cultural Property. Its warm, understated interiors provide a striking backdrop for Margiela’s work, which transforms the ordinary into something unexpected.  Photo: Kisa Toyoshima『Torso III（Black）』（2018〜2021年） Born in Genk in 1957, Margiela studied at Antwerp’s Royal Academy of Fine Arts before debuting in the fashion industry in 1988. From masked models to his now iconic tabi-style shoes inspired by traditional Japanese footwear, his designs challenged conventional ideas of high fashion and luxury.  Photo: Kisa Toyoshima『Interior Steps』 Since transitioning to fine art, Margiela has showcased his creations around the world, challenging viewers to question how they see and experience objects. For this exhibition, he has covered the venue’s floor and walls with plastic sheeting, giving the impression that the exhibition is still in the process of being set u

The Shibuya Sky observation deck has become one of the hottest attractions in Tokyo since it opened on the rooftop of Shibuya Scramble Square. This open-air observation deck boasts 360-degree views of the city from a jaw-dropping 230 metres above ground, and you can see all of Tokyo’s major landmarks including Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree and even Mt Fuji on a clear day. What's more, the observation deck boasts a stunning rooftop bar that's only open for about eight months a year. 画像提供：渋谷スクランブルスクエア株式会社バーカウンター The good news is, the rooftop bar and lounge, known simply as The Roof, will be open for a limited time from April 29 to December 25. You can order snacks and drinks such as beer, wine, cocktails and mocktails. The bar operates from 4pm until 10pm every evening (from 5pm in August, 3pm-9pm in November and December), giving you a chance to catch the sunset as well as Tokyo’s stunning skyline at night.  Photo: Shibuya Scramble Square It’s a good idea to purchase tickets in advance (tickets are sold up to two weeks in advance) to secure one of the cosy couches overlooking the city. You'll be limited to a 50-minute time slot for each couch reservation, which is available as part of a champagne or standard drink set (from ¥7,000 per person). Do note that a minimum of two guests must be present to secure a couch seat. In case of bad weather, The Roof will be closed. Photo: Shibuya Scramble Square For more details and to book a reservation at The Roof, visit the website.