Kaila Imada

When it comes to souvenir shopping in Tokyo, there is a lot to choose from. Whether you're on the hunt for delectable confectionery, pretty trinkets made from gorgeous kimono fabric or something bespoke and customisable, there's no way you'll leave the city empty-handed. However, if you're looking for something with a unique connection to Tokyo, here are our top picks for souvenirs that are either made in the city or inspired by our vibrant metropolis. From handmade kimono sneakers to a dreamy perfume inspired by one of Tokyo's most sacred shrines, these special gifts will have you reminiscing about Tokyo long after you've gone home. RECOMMENDED: These omamori lucky charms from Tokyo's most popular shines and temples make perfect mementos

Most shoppers look for glasses due to practical purposes, while others prefer to use a trendy pair of frames as a fashionable accessory to jazz up their look. Tokyo has more than its fair share of shops and sometimes it’s almost impossible to keep track, but we’ve squinted really hard and dug up our favourite eyewear spots in the city. Read on for where you can find an amazing pair of specs to suit your style and, of course, help you see properly.

In Japan, you’ll find plenty of quality beauty and skincare products that won't break the bank. Even better, most are widely available at any local Japanese drugstore, so you don’t have to hunt through a fancy department store for a product that works. The only hard part about beauty shopping in Japan is figuring out what to buy – products here often have creative names, even for beauty brands, which can be confusing sometimes. From foamy face wash and makeup remover to moisturising hair treatments and sunscreen that’s kinder to your skin, these are some of the best and most affordable Japanese skincare and hair products you need to try out. The prices we've listed here are from online stores, but most Japanese chemists and drugstores carry them, too – just be aware that prices may vary depending on the shop. RECOMMENDED: the best Japanese sunscreens you can get at the drugstore

Don Quijote is an institution in Tokyo and across Japan. The mega discount store is a sensory overload: from jam-packed shelves and colourful signs to that catchy jingle on loop, Donki can be a lot to process for first-time visitors and even regulars. So what will you find at Don Quijote? The store stocks almost anything you can think of: beauty and skincare, clothing, luxury goods, home appliances, groceries, electronics, snacks, souvenirs and even sex toys. There are also many variations of Don Quijote, and sometimes you have to visit a specific one to find what you need. The Mega Donki is the jumbo version of the lot. There’s also the slightly more upscale Platinum Donki, and Okashi Donki that specialises in snacks.  Conveniently, most Don Quijote stores are open until the wee hours of the morning – some even run 24 hours non-stop, making them a reliable destination for last-minute gifts or that late-night snack run. Each Donki also houses a Tax Free counter, so make sure to bring your passport if you’re an overseas tourist.To make your next visit more productive, we’ve broken down the biggest Donki of them all – the eight-floor Mega Donki in Shibuya – into a floor-by-floor handy guide. This should give you a general idea of how a Donki is organised and keep you from getting lost in the maze-like store. RECOMMENDED: The best outlet malls near Tokyo

For the ultimate one-stop shopping experience, there’s no better place to start than a department store. Known as depato, Japan's department stores are, just like anywhere else, massive mall-like buildings that provide pretty much anything you can think of, from groceries and fashion to accessories and kimono. Where these giants stand out is in the customer service department – and in that they have expansive basement floors (depachika) dedicated entirely to glorious, impeccably presented food. If you’re itching to spend some money, check out our list of Tokyo’s best department stores below and get ready to shop your day away. RECOMMENDED: Stunning flagship stores in Tokyo you need to visit 

It’s become a well-known fact that you should wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, whether rain or shine, winter or summer. But now that summer is finally here, sunscreen is one of those must-have items that we’ll be reapplying and carrying around with us all season long.  As Japan is renowned for its skincare and cosmetics, it's no surprise that the country’s makeup makers have come up with some pretty great sunblocks catering to a variety of skin types. From lightweight gel formulas that are ideal for hot weather to convenient spray-on protection, we’ve rounded up some of the most popular and affordable sunscreens you can find at your average Japanese drugstore.  RECOMMENDED: 11 essential items to survive the Tokyo summer 

When June rolls around, we officially enter summer – and start bracing ourselves for Tokyo’s hot, humid days ahead. While quick fixes like ice cream or kakigori are nice, it’s also great to have longer-lasting options that won’t melt into a puddle in our hands.  Leave it to Japan to come up with some wacky and wild inventions to help keep you cool and presentable throughout the unbearably hot and humid season. From icy-cool shirt sprays to tingly face and hair wipes, these handy products will help you survive the scorching summer heat. Plus, you can easily pick them up at your local drugstore, konbini or even at popular shops like Don Quijote. RECOMMENDED: These fun indoor activities are inside air-conditioned spaces

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

Since opening in November 2025, the ReFa flagship store in Ginza has become a go-to destination for anyone looking to experience the Japanese beauty brand’s innovative products, from its iconic beauty devices to its popular hair brushes, showerheads and wellness items.  Spanning five floors, the expansive store offers plenty to explore, with exclusive services and hands-on experiences that make every visit worthwhile. Designed by Gwenael Nicolas, the multidisciplinary designer behind luxury spaces including the nearby Ginza Six shopping centre, the interiors blend contemporary design with natural elements to create a luxe yet approachable environment that reflects the ReFa brand. The first floor showcases ReFa’s core collection, including its latest products and Ginza exclusives. Head to the second floor for the brand’s haircare, bath care and fragrances, while the third floor is dedicated to ReFa’s recovery wear, linens and wellness items, including special water sourced from Mt Fuji. Thinking of stopping by? Here are a few more reasons to add ReFa’s flagship store to your Tokyo shopping itinerary.

タイムアウト東京 > レストラン&カフェ >東京、かき氷31選 日本の夏の風物詩であるかき氷は、ここ数年で大きな進化を遂げている。多くの店が個性を打ち出すべく、ティラミスやアボカド、トウモロコシやトマトなど、これまでかき氷には使用されてこなかった食材や斬新な素材の組み合わせなどを駆使した、話題を呼ぶクリエイティブな新作フレーバーが次々と生み出されている。 一年中かき氷が食べられる店が増えたとはいえ、ベストシーズンは夏。ここでは、タイムアウト東京エディターで、かき氷を愛してやまないケイラ イマダ（@kakigori_kaila）一部監修のもと、暑い日にはしごしてでも巡ってほしい店を紹介する。 関連記事『東京、ベストアイスクリームショップ18選』

タイムアウト東京 > レストラン&カフェ >この夏味わいたい、贅沢なデザート＆ドリンク4選 夏の楽しみの一つといえば、季節限定の味覚を堪能すること。爽やかなかき氷や濃厚なアイスクリーム、独創的なカクテルなど、夏ならではの特別なスイーツが揃う季節だ。 また、夏はフルーツが最も輝く時期でもある。全国のデザートショップやパティスリーでは、モモ、メロン、マンゴー、ブドウ、柑橘類など、旬の果物をふんだんに使ったスイーツが次々と登場する。 究極の夏スイーツをを求めているなら、2026年に期間限定で登場するラグジュアリーなデザート＆ドリンクをチェックしてほしい。 関連記事『東京、ベストホットドッグ10選』

Tokyo takes its desserts seriously, especially in summer when all we think about is where to cool down with the best ice cream, kakigori and other frozen treats. From coffee soft-serve and cereal-infused ice cream to guilt-free goodness and intense matcha delights, there's really something for everyone in our super-cool list of the best ice cold treats in Tokyo. RECOMMENDED: the best kakigori shaved ice in Tokyo 

Japan is renowned for its beautiful yet functional kitchenware, with enamelware among the most durable and beloved pieces, crafted to last a lifetime. Noda Horo is perhaps Japan’s most renowned enamelware manufacturer. Founded in 1934, the company continues to create some of the finest enamelware products for the home and kitchen today. Now with its own flagship store in Kiyosumi-Shirakawa, Noda Horo offers the brand’s full range of enamelware, from classic white containers and trays to beautiful tableware and kettles that deserve to be displayed rather than tucked away in kitchen cabinets. The displays throughout the store are designed to resemble real living spaces, allowing visitors to get a feel for the products and how they can be incorporated into the home. Noda Horo’s products are created by coating a steel base with a glass glaze, which is fired at approximately 850 degrees Celsius. Additional layers of coloured glaze are then applied and fired again to create the finished pieces. Each piece is crafted by skilled artisans whose techniques take years to master, resulting in products that showcase the beauty of traditional craftsmanship and attention to detail. Enamelware is a practical addition to any kitchen, as its surface does not retain odours or colours, making it ideal for storing preserved foods such as miso and pickles. It can also be used directly on heat sources, including gas stoves and induction cooktops.  Another reason to visit the flagship store is its s

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.

Since opening in autumn 2022, Ghibli Park has become a haven for Studio Ghibli fans, offering the chance to step into the worlds of their favourite films. The park is located within Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park in the city of Nagakute, near Nagoya, and comprises dedicated areas such as Dondoko Forest, home to Totoro and friends; the Hill of Youth, which features the iconic house from Whisper of the Heart; Mononoke Village, inspired by the landscapes of Princess Mononoke; and the Valley of Witches, themed around Ghibli films featuring magic and witchcraft. While many of the studio’s most popular films are well represented throughout the park, one notable title has been missing – until now. With Ghibli Park’s latest expansion announcement, it looks like Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind could finally be getting its own dedicated area. Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaGhibli's Grand Warehouse   Aichi prefecture has not given a specific timeline for the new area, but it will reportedly be located at the park’s West Gate Plaza, across the large body of water from Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse. Interestingly, it will also be the park’s second indoor area after the warehouse – a welcome reprieve from Japan’s summer heat and rainy season.  Photo: Studio GhibliNausicaä of the Valley of the Wind No other details have been shared at this time, but fans of the film can probably expect recreations of its detailed settings, and perhaps even appearances from iconic characters such as the massive

Although we are already more than halfway through August, Tokyo’s summer festival season is still going strong, with plenty of lively celebrations taking place across the city. If you happen to be in Tokyo this weekend, you’re in luck, as it’s shaping up to be an exciting one, with everything from traditional Bon Odori and Awa Odori dance festivals to Latin music and dancing. Here are five festivals to check out from Friday August 21 to Sunday August 23.  画像提供：森ビル株式会社 | 「六本木ヒルズ盆踊り」 Roppongi Hills Bon Odori August 21-23 One of the largest in all of Tokyo, this lively Roppongi Hills festival features traditional Bon Odori dance by yukata-clad performers in the shopping centre’s central event arena.  Traditional Japanese lanterns add to the festive atmosphere while the surrounding food stalls cater to hungry crowds. You can expect a varied gourmet selection prepared by popular restaurants in the area, including Roppongi Barbacoa, Shinanoya, Rigoletto Bar and Grill, Grand Hyatt Tokyo, Gelateria Raffinato and more. There will also be plenty of activities like yo-yo fishing, ring tossing and a face mask stall for children and adults to enjoy.  While there's no Bon Odori dancing on Friday, you’ll get to watch a modern interpretation of Gigaku (masked drama performance) and Dengaku (traditional Japanese dance) instead. The show is put on by Roppongi Raku, the venue’s performing arts group that consists of about 150 people, starting at 7pm.  Bon Odori dancing takes place on Saturday

Tokyo is full of unexpected art spaces, but sometimes the best places to get your art fix are the city’s reliable and renowned museums and galleries. One of the biggest names in the scene is Nanzuka, a contemporary art space that’s been a fixture in Tokyo’s art world since 2005. The gallery is now gearing up to open a brand-new flagship space in the Shibuya Axsh building on Saturday September 12. © Keiichi Tanaami. Courtesy of NANZUKA田名網敬一が生前に手がけた、新しいロゴ The new gallery will revolve around the concept of ‘social friendship’, with the aim of creating an open, welcoming space accessible to everyone who wishes to enjoy art. The gallery’s key visual is designed by iconic Japanese contemporary artist Keiichi Tanaami, who also happens to be the featured artist in the gallery’s inaugural exhibition.  ©Keiichi Tanaami Courtesy of NANZUKA田名網敬一 Keiichi Tanaami 身体感覚 Bodily Sensation 2024 Pigmented ink, acrylic silkscreen medium, crashed glass, glitter, acrylic paint on canvas H200 x W200 x D4 cm The solo exhibition, titled ‘Do Not Bomb’, will showcase works exploring Tanaami’s memories of war through early pieces from the 1960s to previously unreleased artworks created shortly before his death in 2024.  ©Keiichi Tanaami Courtesy of NANZUKA田名網敬一 Keiichi Tanaami Frederik Ruysh - 臓器の劇場 Frederik Ruysh - Theater of Internal Organs 1987 Acrylic on canvas H145.5 x W145.5 x D 3.5 cm Tanaami’s artwork often draws on his personal memories while also reflecting the collective memories of post

Over the past year, the cost of living and travelling in Japan has been steadily creeping up, from higher taxi fares to increased visa fees for foreign nationals. Now, amusement parks across Japan are also set to raise admission fees, citing rising operating and electricity costs, as well as hopes of easing peak-season crowds. As reported by the Japan Times, amusement parks including Tokyo Disney Resort, Universal Studios Japan and Sanrio Puroland are all set to raise their admission fees in the coming months. And they’re not the only major parks raising prices. As of July, 32 of the 101 amusement parks surveyed across Japan had announced plans to increase their fees this year. Most of these parks are introducing dynamic pricing, meaning ticket prices will vary depending on the season or day of the week you choose to visit. For instance, Tokyo Disney Resort – including both Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea – will be changing its one-day admission fee from ¥10,900 to ¥11,900 for those visiting the parks on October 10, and then ¥12,400 starting October 11. For Sanrio Puroland, the price has already increased by ¥1,000 as of August first to ¥6,900. Entry fees aren’t the only prices changing, either. Tokyo Disney Resort will expand the number of attractions covered by its paid Disney Premier Access service, which allows visitors to book time slots for select attractions and reserve viewing areas for parades. Some parade viewing areas will also see price increases. Additionall

One of the many joys of visiting Japan is using up your spare change to roll for fun and quirky gachapon toys. Now, Starbucks cafés in Tokyo are getting in on the fun, offering adorable plush capsule toys of their iconic food and drink items to celebrate the anniversary of the brand’s arrival in Japan. Photo: Starbucks Coffee Japan Co., Ltd.Starbucks gacha toys The palm-sized items are the first-ever capsule toys created by Starbucks. They can be clipped onto your bag, or you can even connect multiple charms together to create one longer one.  Photo: Starbucks Coffee Japan Co., Ltd.Starbucks gacha toys The capsule toys will be available through traditional gacha machines at select stores, while others will have them available for purchase over the counter. Each toy costs ¥880 and comes in an opaque capsule, so whatever you receive will be a complete surprise.  Photo: Starbucks Coffee Japan Co., Ltd.Starbucks gacha toys Designs include the classic takeaway double tall latte, caramel macchiato, Tokyo Roast bean bag, matcha cream Frappuccino and sugar doughnut. Photo: Starbucks Coffee Japan Co., Ltd.Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo gacha collection In addition to this collection, Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo will also have an exclusive line-up of four capsule toys, priced at ¥1,100 each. Designs include a takeaway caffe Americano, caffe latte, Tokyo Roastery Microblend bean bag and cornetti crema pastry. The gacha toys are available at 19 Starbucks locations across T

It’s hard to believe that two years have already gone by, but Four Seasons Hotel Osaka is now celebrating its second anniversary. To mark the occasion, the hotel recently hosted a three-day collaboration dinner from July 31 to August 2 at its signature Chinese restaurant, Jiang Nan Chun. Photo: Four Seasons Hotel OsakaChefs Alan Chan and Raymond Wong The collaboration brought together two of Four Seasons’ Jiang-Nan Chun restaurants, with Executive Chinese Chef Alan Chan from Four Seasons Hotel Singapore joining Osaka’s resident Executive Chinese Chef Raymond Wong Wai Man. Singapore’s Jiang-Nan Chun is one of the city’s most celebrated restaurants, earning a Michelin recommendation for its authentic Cantonese cuisine with a modern twist. Photo: Four Seasons Hotel OsakaJiang-Nan Chun Osaka The dinner offered a rare opportunity to experience dishes from both distinguished chefs, each of whom has put their own stamp on Jiang-Nan Chun. The eight-course menu featured signature Cantonese dishes from both restaurants, showcasing the chefs’ focus on seasonality, craftsmanship and creativity. Photo: Four Seasons Hotel OsakaDouble-boiled chicken soup with velvet mushrooms and sea whelk Highlights from the Singapore restaurant included a double-boiled chicken soup with velvet mushrooms and sea whelk, as well as a tender Cantonese-style braised beef cheek that had been cooked for more than ten hours.  Photo: Four Seasons Hotel OsakaTossed noodles with shredded duck, scallion and go

Summer is in full swing, which means Tokyo is packed with lively festivals, traditional bon odori dances and dazzling fireworks displays nearly every week. This August 8 to 9 weekend is particularly eventful, with some of Tokyo’s major Tanabata celebrations and other traditional matsuri taking place across the city. From colourful decorations and dynamic dances to neighbourhood festivities and one of Tokyo’s biggest fireworks shows, here are the events you won’t want to miss. 画像提供：阿佐谷パールセンターAsagaya Tanabata Matsuri Asagaya Tanabata Matsuri August 7-11 Asagaya has been holding its own distinctive Tanabata festival for 70 years now – complete with extravagant kusudama ornaments and a colourful curtain of wind-swept streamers, but the event has moved with the times. In recent years, the papier-mâché decorations dangling from the ceiling of the Pearl Center shopping arcade have included modern characters like Godzilla, Chiikawa, Buzz Lightyear and even Donald Trump.  The decorations are there to be seen all day long, but many people wait until dusk to go and enjoy them. That's when the shopping street comes alive with a host of food and drink stalls offering Japanese festive fare. Photo: Fussa City HallFussa Tanabata Festival Fussa Tanabata Festival August 7-9 You'll find one of Tokyo's longest-running Tanabata celebrations in the western town of Fussa. While other such festivals tend to be fairly low-key affairs, this one (now in its 76th year) is packed with events, includi

アジアの優れたバーを選出する「Asia's 50 Best Bars 2026」が今年も発表された。7月28日にマカオで開催された授賞式では、東京から実力派バー3店舗がトップ50にランクイン。2026年版のランキングには、アジア22都市のバーが選ばれ、14店舗が新たにトップ50入りを果たした。 第1位に輝いたのは、中国・広州の「Hope & Sesame」。中国の進化するカクテルシーンを牽引（けんいん）する存在として高く評価された。続いて韓国・ソウルの「Zest」が2位、香港の「Bar Leone」が3位となった。 Photo: Hideyuki SaitoPunch Room Tokyo 東京勢で最も高い順位となったのは、「東京エディション銀座」内の「Punch Room Tokyo」で、23位を獲得。洗練された空間で、複数人でシェアして楽しむパンチボウルスタイルのカクテルで注目を集めている。 Photo: Four SeasonsVirtù at the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi 続く26位には、「フォーシーズンズホテル東京大手町」内の「VIRTÙ（ヴェルテュ）」が選ばれた。これまで「Asia’s 50 Best Bars」や「The World’s 50 Best Bars」にも名を連ねてきたバーで、東京の街並みを一望できるロケーションと、フランスのアペリティフやリキュール、日本のウイスキーや焼酎を取り入れたカクテルが魅力だ。 Photo: Keisuke TanigawaBar Libre 39位には池袋の「Bar Libre」がランクイン。クラシックカクテルから旬のフルーツを使った一杯、オリジナルカクテルまで幅広く展開し、好みのスピリッツを伝えるだけでバーテンダーがオリジナルの一杯を仕立てるスタイルでも支持を集めている。 なお、ランキングの全一覧は公式ウェブサイトで確認できる。 関連記事 『タイムアウト東京podcast番組『Being Tokyo』がスタート、渋谷のリアルな飲み屋事情を聞こう』 『横浜の文化財建築に「スターバックス コーヒー 横浜海の公園店」がオープン』 『原宿で、カワラボのアイドルキャラクターらが彩る没入型ナイトマーケットが初開催』 『米国外初のグーグル直営店「Google Store 表参道」がオープン』 『加賀美健デザインのクレーンゲーム限定ブランド「TORENAI」が誕生』 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

It’s that time of year again – Asia’s 50 Best Bars has just released its 2026 list, featuring a number of Tokyo stalwarts that continue to impress. This year, three Tokyo bars made the prestigious list, which was revealed at a ceremony in Macau on July 28. The top 50 featured bars from 22 cities, with 14 new entries joining the list this year. The top bar for 2026 was Hope & Sesame in Guangzhou, which has been at the forefront of China’s fast-evolving cocktail scene. It was followed by Seoul’s Zest and Hong Kong’s Bar Leone, rounding out the top three. Photo: Hideyuki SaitoPunch Room Tokyo The highest ranking Tokyo bar was Punch Room Tokyo at The Tokyo Edition Ginza, which claimed No 23. Known for its elegant atmosphere, the bar specialises in cocktails served in beautifully crafted punch bowls designed for sharing. Photo: Four SeasonsVirtù at the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi Following Punch Room Tokyo is Virtù at The Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi, which ranked in at No 26. The stunning cocktail lounge is no stranger to the 50 Best rankings, having previously appeared on both Asia’s 50 Best Bars and the World’s 50 Best Bars lists. Virtù offers incredible views of the city skyline and a menu featuring French aperitifs and liqueurs alongside Japanese whisky and shochu. Photo: Keisuke TanigawaBar Libre Last but not least, Bar Libre in Ikebukuro came in at No 39. The bar has been making waves in Tokyo’s cocktail scene with its diverse menu, featuring everythi

It’s hard to believe August is almost here. The first weekend of the month is shaping up to be an exciting one in Tokyo, with numerous fireworks festivals and other summer festivities happening across the capital. If you’ve got time to squeeze in even more fun, there are also a number of traditional Bon Odori festivals taking place, with some celebrations starting earlier in the week. These lively summer gatherings are the perfect opportunity to join in the dancing, practice the traditional Bon Odori moves, and dress up in a yukata for the full festival experience. Photo: Tsukiji HongwanjiTsukiji Hongwanji Bon Odori Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple Noryo Bon Odori Festival July 29-August 1 Summer in Tokyo is defined by festivals, and one of the most spectacular is Bon Odori, a traditional dance celebration held in neighbourhoods across the city. Originally a way to honour the spirits of the dead, Bon Odori has evolved into a lively, family-friendly event.  The celebration at Tsukiji Hongwanji from July 29 to August 1 is one of Tokyo’s most popular Bon Odori festivals. Don a yukata and join the crowds dancing around the yagura stage from 7pm to 9pm (6pm to 8.30pm on Saturday).  Not to worry if you don’t know the steps – just mimic the dance moves of the locals next to you. The festival is also famous for its delectable food selection from nearby Tsukiji Market, so go early and dance up an appetite for a feast.  Photo: Nakano Bon Odori Festival「中野駅前大盆踊り大会」 Nakano Bon Odori Festival

Tokyo’s summer festival season is in full swing, and this week – especially this weekend – brings some of the biggest fireworks displays of the year. From a spectacular show along the banks of the Edo River to dazzling festivals in nearby Enoshima and Ome, there are plenty of opportunities to see the night sky light up. So dust off your yukata, arrive early to secure a good viewing spot – even if you don’t have a paid seat, you can still catch the fireworks from nearby vantage points – and enjoy an evening of colourful displays, festival food and summer celebrations. 画像提供：葛飾区「葛飾納涼花火大会」 Katsushika Noryo Fireworks Festival July 28 Held every year for more than half a century along the Edogawa River, Katsushika's popular fireworks festival, taking place on July 28, is known for the unusually short distance between the launch site and the spectator area. This allows visitors to watch, hear and feel the impact of the around 20,000 fireworks up close. It also features the spectacular 'Niagara Falls' and 'Digital Star Mine' crackers, both supposedly representing the latest in firework technology. On your way to the river, take a stroll along the picturesque street leading from Taishakuten Temple for a glimpse of what summer in Edo – the former name of Tokyo – might have felt like. 江戸川区江戸川区 Edogawa Fireworks Festival August 1 The Edogawa Fireworks Festival has been lighting up Tokyo’s eastern skies for more than five decades, making it one of the city’s most established firework

In just a few years, Tokyo Confidential has established itself as one of Tokyo’s standout cocktail bars, thanks to its lively, welcoming atmosphere and creative drink list, which is refreshed every year. From a baseball-themed menu to one inspired by maneki-neko lucky cats, you never really know what to expect – and that’s all part of the excitement. The bar’s latest menu may be its most creative yet, as it transforms all your favourite konbini treats into inventive cocktails. Appropriately titled Konbini Confidential, the new menu takes inspiration from classic convenience store staples, from cup noodles and onigiri rice balls to melon pan bread and your favourite gummy candies. Each cocktail is delightfully unexpected, offering a playful new way to experience these familiar faves in liquid form. Photo: Millie TangConfidential Noodle Taking a closer look at the menu, there’s the Confidential Noodle, a Cup Noodle-inspired highball shaken up with bourbon, awamori, mango, corn and a house-made noodle spice blend. It’s even served in a cheeky custom 3D-printed mug modelled after the iconic instant noodle cup.  Photo: Millie TangOnigiritini If you enjoy a savoury cocktail, the Onigiritini is a must-order. This unique martini pulls from the key ingredients of an onigiri – rice, salt and seaweed – and is translated into drink form through a sake base with a touch of rice shochu, along with hints of seaweed and soy sauce to recreate that iconic onigiri flavour. It’s served with