Kaila Imada

Every year from October to December, hordes of Tokyoites make the exodus out of town to classic autumn-leaf destinations like Kamakura, Nikko, Hakone and even Osaka.  However, if you prefer not to travel, there are still plenty of gardens and parks right here in the city to catch the brilliant autumn colours from mid-to-late November. Here are our top picks of historic retreats, lush parks and lesser-known viewing locations, all in or close to Tokyo. BEFORE YOU GO: The 2026 autumn leaves forecast for Tokyo and Japan

Tea is deeply woven into Japanese culture, enjoyed everywhere from homes and cafés to traditional tea ceremonies. And while Japan has long loved matcha, the vibrant powdered tea has taken the world by storm in recent years, finding its way into everything from lattes and desserts to cocktails. Japan is also home to some of the world’s most renowned matcha-growing regions, making it a great place to sample different varieties. You’ll find cafés serving matcha with distinct flavours and characteristics that depend on where and how the tea leaves are grown and harvested. Many also sell their matcha for you to take home, so you can recreate your favourite green tea drinks yourself. Whether you’re a matcha aficionado or simply looking to get your fix while in Tokyo, bookmark this list for your next visit. RECOMMENDED: Prefer coffee? Here are some of Tokyo's best coffee shops

Tokyo is a shopping haven for quality gifts, fashion and lifestyle items designed to last. And if you’re looking to invest in a piece of leather craftsmanship, Ganzo, one of Japan’s finest leather brands, is well worth a visit. The brand creates some of the most premium leather goods in the country, from handbags and briefcases to wallets and speciality accessories like belts and golf club covers. With stores across Tokyo, including its flagship in Omotesando and branches in Roppongi and Ginza, as well as outposts in Osaka and Nagoya, Ganzo is easy to find in Japan’s major cities. The brand also has an online store with international shipping available. If you’re curious to discover the brand for yourself, we’ve rounded up a few reasons why Ganzo deserves a spot on your Japan shopping list. And if you’re visiting from overseas, remember to bring your passport to take advantage of tax-free shopping.

タイムアウト東京 > Things to do > 東京近郊、ベスト紅葉スポット14選 毎年10月から12月にかけて、東京に住む多くの人々は鎌倉や日光、箱根といった、定番の紅葉名所を目指して都外へ足を運ぶだろう。しかし東京には、遠出をしなくても11月下旬から12月中旬にかけて鮮やかな秋の色が堪能できる庭園や公園がいくつもある。 本記事では、歴史を感じるたたずまいを見せる場所や、緑豊かな公園、そしてあまり知られていない展望スポットまで、東京や東京近郊にあるおすすめの紅葉スポットを紹介する。訪れる前に、2026年の紅葉・黄葉の見頃予想をチェックしてほしい。 関連記事『東京、秋の夜長にしかできない13のこと』

タイムアウト東京 > トラベル >秋に旅すべき美しい紅葉スポット8選 日本の秋は旅行をするのに良い季節の一つだ。日本では紅葉が人気があり、緑の葉がいつ黄や金や赤といった美しい色合いに変わるのか、ということを毎年予測する紅葉情報さえ存在する。 ありがたいことに、国内でも場所によって気温が違うため、この季節の風物詩を楽しむためには十分な時間がある。つまり9月末から12月まで、いつでも紅葉を眺められるということだ。 ここでは、タイムアウト東京英語編集部が選んだ、京都の寺院から北海道の山々など、この秋訪れてほしいスポットを紹介する。 関連記事『東京、秋の夜長にしかできない13のこと』

Aside from the ever-popular cherry blossom season, autumn in Japan is easily one of the best times to travel the country. The changing autumn colours, locally known as koyo, is highly anticipated, with annual forecasts predicting when the leaves will change from green to stunning shades of yellow, gold and red.  Thankfully, there is ample time to enjoy this seasonal spectacle as temperatures vary throughout the country. This means you’ll be able to catch the leaves anytime from the end of September through to December. From the temples of Kyoto to the mountains in Hokkaido, keep these gorgeous destinations in your list if you want to see the best of Japanese autumn. RECOMMENDED: The best times to see autumn leaves in Japan, according to official forecast

Thanks to its old-school shopping streets and abundance of retro venues, walking around Koenji feels as if you've stepped back in time. Famed for its underground music scene and scores of hip eateries and bars, Koenji hosts Tokyo's premier Awa Odori (dance) festival in August and is undoubtedly one of Tokyo's most underrated cool 'hoods. To begin your Koenji adventure, we suggest starting your day with a stroll through Koenji's covered Pal Shotengai, which is found just outside the station. From there, you can wind your way through the streets north and south of the station. If you're up for more exploring in the Suginami area, don't miss Koenji's nearby neighbours of Asagaya, Ogikubo and Nishi-Ogikubo. RECOMMENDED: The coolest neighbourhoods in Tokyo

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

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

One of Tokyo’s premier contemporary art galleries, Nanzuka has opened its brand-new flagship space in Shibuya Axsh, marking the gallery’s return to Shibuya after a 20-year absence. The inaugural exhibition celebrates contemporary artist Keiichi Tanaami with his solo show ‘Do Not Bomb’. Spanning works from the 1960s to unreleased pieces made before the artist’s death in 2024, the exhibition explores Tanaami’s memories of war through around 60 works, including silkscreens, collages, paintings, animations, sculptures and videos. The work closest to the entrance is ‘Do Not Bomb’, created while Tanaami was preparing for a large-scale solo exhibition in 2024. Made against the backdrop of ongoing wars around the world, the piece features a goldfish at its centre, flying towards the viewer like a cannonball. The exhibition also features Tanaami’s ‘No More War’ series, which connects to ‘Do Not Bomb’. Created in 1967, the series was submitted to an anti-war poster contest hosted by American magazine Avant Garde in 1968, where it was selected as an outstanding work. Influenced by pop art, the silkscreen prints reflect Tanaami’s early interest in reaching a wider audience through reproduced imagery. The exhibition runs until October 17. Check the gallery website for more details.

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. 

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

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. 

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. 

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.

From fields of colourful tulips to a sea of blue nemophila, the sprawling Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki has something to see every season. In summer, the park starts growing kochia, or summer cypress. These fluffy little bushes look like something out of a Dr Seuss book. Slowly growing in scale over the past 20 years, there are now approximately 40,000 kochia bushes growing at the park’s Miharashi no Oka Hill area, covering roughly 2.3 hectares. Photo: Fukamiyoga/DreamstimeA stock photo of Hitachi Seaside Park in summer During summer, the bushes are in a fresh, vibrant green colour, but come autumn, they turn brilliant red.  Photo: Banky405/Dreamstime These 'fur balls' have already started to change colour. The best time to see them in their full red glory is mid-October. Later into the month, they'll start to take on a dusty golden hue. Photo: Parks and Recreation FoundationKochia bushes taken on October 1, 2026 Currently, the green bushes have just started to turn red and will be at their peak from October 10 to October 20. You can keep tabs on this year’s kochia colours forecast via Hitachi Seaside Park’s website. The kochia plants changing colour coincides with the annual Kochia Carnival, which is also showcasing vibrant yellow cosmos flowers on the lower sections of Miharashi no Oka Hill. The carnival runs until November 3. The park is roughly two hours from Tokyo Station. See the park’s website for information on how to get there. This article was published

For the last few years, Shibuya Ward has been cracking down on public gatherings in central Shibuya during Halloween. On September 30, Shibuya mayor Ken Hasebe announced that the same rules Tokyoites have become accustomed to will be back in place this year. The measures aim to prevent overcrowding, littering, noise and public disturbances around Shibuya Station and the Scramble Crossing, starting October 30, the day before Halloween. For years, Shibuya has been one of Tokyo’s go-to spots for Halloween celebrations, with hordes of revellers flocking to the streets around Shibuya Station to party and show off their costumes. Meanwhile, the ward has redoubled its efforts to move away from its reputation as the unofficial home of rowdy Halloween festivities.  Photo: KreabShibuya Halloween This year, the campaign is going by the slogan ‘Goodbye Bad Halloween’, with the ward urging visitors to avoid disruptive behaviour such as drinking and smoking on the streets, littering, making excessive noise and taking photos in ways that obstruct pedestrian flow. Further details reveal that 60 security guards will be deployed on the evening of October 30, followed by approximately 125 guards on October 31. The guards will be stationed at 10 locations around Shibuya, including Hachiko Square. Photo: Time Out TokyoShibuya Halloween campaign in 2025 Additionally, Hachiko will be enclosed with a temporary barrier from October 30 to November 1, while traffic restrictions will be in place aro

Tokyo has already been ranked one of the world’s best cities for 2026, and the capital was recently named the best city for our fellow Gen Z younguns, too. Add to that the sheer number of visitors coming through Tokyo and Japan, and it’s clear that tourism here shows no signs of slowing down. And Japan’s tourism boom is part of a much bigger global, upward trend. According to the World Economic Forum’s recent Travel & Tourism Development Index, international tourist arrivals worldwide hit a record 1.5 billion in 2025, while Japan topped its ranking of the top ten countries for travel and tourism in 2026. Following Japan in this year’s index are:  No 2 United StatesNo 3 Spain No 4 AustraliaNo 5 France No 6 GermanyNo 7 United KingdomNo 8 ChinaNo 9 SwitzerlandNo 10 Italy Japan’s top spot in the ranking comes after the country welcomed a record 42.7 million international visitors last year. While the rise in tourism may seem like a great thing, there have been some downsides like overcrowding and noise pollution in popular cities like Kyoto and Tokyo. To combat this, actors such as the Japan National Tourism Organization have been working to draw travellers to regional destinations beyond the country’s major cities, distributing the impacts of tourism more equitably. A new lodging tax was also introduced in certain cities like Kyoto. Overall, Japan climbed two places from last year’s ranking, alongside Australia, showcasing strong demand for travel within the Asia-Pacific region.

It’s been a dreary time to be in Tokyo as of late. While this summer has been slightly milder than usual, that may be in part due to the extreme amount of rain we’ve experienced over the past few months. And just this week, the Japan Meteorological Agency announced that central Tokyo set a new record for its longest consecutive run of rainy days: a whopping 34-day streak, breaking the July 2019 record of 33 days. As reported by the Japan Times, the current stretch began on August 27, followed by two typhoons that brought heavy rain throughout September. The first was Typhoon Krovanh, which caused more than 150mm of rainfall between September 6 and 7, followed by Typhoon Dujuan, which brought 156mm of rain on September 21.  This week, Typhoon Surigae is drawing near and could bring more wet weather towards the weekend, potentially extending the streak through October 2. So while the rainy spell is expected to end over the next couple of days, it’s still wise to keep an umbrella handy. More from Time Out Tokyo 5 of the best gigs to catch in Tokyo this October Lady Gaga becomes a FamilyMart staff member in new Japan commercial 2 Tokyo pizzerias have made the 50 Top Pizza World list for 2026 This massive fireworks show is returning to Tokyo’s waterfront for the first time in 11 years Koenji is one of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods in 2026 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. Plus, check out

Tokyo is no stranger to the world of great pizza, to say the least. Earlier this year, several pizzerias in the capital earned spots in the 50 Top Pizza Asia-Pacific ranking, while one of the city’s hottest new pizza restaurants just opened up at the Bulgari Bar Tokyo. Now, the 2026 list of the world’s 100 best pizzerias is out, with two Tokyo favourites making the cut. The 50 Top Pizza ranking – which, despite its name, ranks 100 pizzerias – highlights the world’s best Neapolitan-style pizza, with anonymous inspectors around the globe evaluating restaurants on food quality, service, wine, décor and ambiance. Two Tokyo pizzerias made the 50 Top Pizza World 2026 list, joined by a notable Nagoya restaurant, giving Japan three spots among the world’s top 100 pizzerias.  Photo: 50 Top PizzaGiuseppe Errichiello from RistoPizza by Napoli sta’ ca Marking a new record for the restaurant and the highest ranking for a Japanese pizzeria, RistoPizza by Napoli sta’ ca has climbed from No 13 last year to seventh place. This popular pizza spot in Azabudai Hills is the sister restaurant of longtime Italian favourite Pizzeria Peppe – Napoli Sta’ Ca, a Tokyo institution for years. The star-shaped Don Salvo pizza is the must-order at both RistoPizza and Pizzeria Peppe. Photo: Mandarin Oriental TokyoPizza Bar on 38th The Pizza Bar on 38th at the Mandarin Oriental Tokyo is another familiar name on the list, moving from second place to ninth this year. The restaurant is known for its luxe pizz

After opening its Nigo-directed flagship store at Azabudai Hills this July, FamilyMart is now turning to the music world, with Lady Gaga as its latest unexpected staff member. The pop superstar stars in the convenience store chain’s new recruitment campaign, which celebrates FamilyMart’s 45th anniversary and launches nationwide on September 25. In the new commercial, Gaga transforms into a FamilyMart employee, showcasing the day-to-day work of convenience store staff through a theatrical, fashion-forward performance. Set inside a specially created FamilyMart konbini, the ad is shot in a sleek monochrome style, with Gaga wearing an outfit inspired by the chain’s new uniform and signature striped socks.  The campaign doesn’t stop at the TV commercial. FamilyMart’s in-store digital signage, FamilyMart TV, will also screen exclusive footage of Gaga discussing her approach to work and what she finds fun about FamilyMart, which you can watch when visiting stores. This will be shown over FamilyMart TV screens across approximately 11,600 stores nationwide.  The campaign is part of FamilyMart’s push to create a workplace where employees can embrace their individuality. So, keep an eye out for Gaga the next time you visit your local konbini. More from Time Out Tokyo Starbucks Japan is releasing a Pokémon drink and merch this September 2 Tokyo pizzerias have made the 50 Top Pizza World list for 2026 This massive fireworks show is returning to Tokyo’s waterfront for the first time in

From the adorable Pokémon x Polaroid collaboration to the recent Poké Ball Hotel reveal in Hokkaido, Japan is going all out with Pokémon celebrations to mark the franchise’s 30th anniversary this year. Now, Starbucks Japan is getting in on the fun with its own collaboration, featuring a fun new drink and Pokémon-themed merch. Photo: Starbucks JapanPokémon + Starbucks collaboration Available from September 30, the new Pikachu Honey Cream Latte is the result of a recent Pokémon x Starbucks Barista Battle, where more than 700 baristas from around Japan entered their drink recipe for a chance to have their creation sold nationwide. The drink channels Pikachu’s iconic yellow colour with honey and caramel flavours, topped with espresso. It’s finished with honey-flavoured whipped cream and cute heart-shaped sprinkles that mimic Pikachu’s rosy cheeks. Those who order the drink will also receive a special collaboration sticker. The drink will be available in a tall size only for ¥678 (dine in ¥690). Photo: Starbucks JapanPokémon + Starbucks collaboration Along with the new drink, 41 special items will also be available in stores and online. Photo: Starbucks JapanPokémon + Starbucks collaboration The collection features Pokémon artwork by illustrator Hikaru Ichijo across stainless steel tumblers, insulated cups, stacking mugs, heat-resistant cups, aprons, tote bags, keychains, postcards and more. For more information on the new collaboration, visit the Starbucks website. More fr

東京がピッツァの街であることは、もはや言うまでもない。今年初めには、都内の複数のピッツェリアが「50 TOP PIZZA ASIA PACIFIC 2026」ランキングに選出されたほか、「ブルガリ ホテル 東京」の最上階にある「ブルガリ バー」では新メニュー「ピッツァ バー ピエール・ダニエーレ・セウ」も登場した。そんな中、世界のピッツェリア100軒を選ぶ2026年のランキングが発表され、東京からはおなじみの2軒がランクインした。 「50 TOP PIZZA WORLD 2026」は、その名に反して世界のピッツェリア100軒をランキングする企画で、ナポリスタイルのピッツァに焦点を当てている。世界各地の匿名の審査員が、料理のクオリティー・サービス・ワイン・内装・雰囲気などを基準に各店を評価。2026年は東京から2軒のほか、名古屋の1軒と合わせて、日本から計3軒が世界トップ100入りを果たした。 Photo: 50 Top PizzaGiuseppe Errichiello from RistoPizza by Napoli sta’ ca 「麻布台ヒルズ」の人気店「リストピッツァ バイ ナポリスタカ（RistoPizza by Napoli sta’ ca）」は、前年の13位から7位へと順位を上げ、過去最高位を記録。日本勢ではトップとなった。同店は、長年東京で親しまれてきた「ナポリスタカ 駒沢店」の姉妹店。星形の「ドン・サルヴォ」は、両店で味わえる看板メニューだ。 Photo: Mandarin Oriental TokyoPizza Bar on 38th 「ピッツァバー on 38th」も9位に入った。前年の2位から順位を下げたものの、「マンダリン オリエンタル 東京」にある店内では、ピッツァ職人の手仕事を目の前で楽しめる全8席のカウンターで、ピッツァのおまかせコースを提供している。 50 TOP PIZZA WORLD 2026名古屋の「Pizzeria Braceria CESARI!!」 日本からのもう1軒は、名古屋の「Pizzeria Braceria CESARI!!（ピッツェリア ブラチェリア チェザリ!!）」。昨年の66位から45位へと上昇し、トップ50入りを果たした。 また、4位に入ったローマの「Seu Pizza Illuminati」にも注目したい。同店を率いるのは、著名なピッツァ職人のピエール・ダニエーレ・セウ（Pier Daniele Seu）。東京のブルガリ バーで提供されているピッツァメニューも、彼が手がけている。 世界のランキング全100店は、「50 TOP PIZZA WORLD 2026」の公式ウェブサイトで確認できる。 関連記事 『高円寺が「世界で最もクールな街」ランキングで第8位に選出』 『東京の路地裏で出合う一夜限りの「北欧」、NORDIC NIGHTが開催』 『東京のレストラン7軒がメキシコ政府から「本格的なメキシコ料理」として認定』 『「世界のベストホテル2026」51～100位を発表、日本から7軒がランクイン』 『『深夜食堂』と『かもめ食堂』の食を巡る展覧会が渋谷PARCOで開催』 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

To celebrate the brilliant autumn moon, Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo is now showcasing a mesmerising Sea of Clouds installation at its lush garden. Japan’s mountainous regions are renowned for their beautiful cloud formations known as unkai or ‘sea of clouds’. This natural phenomenon often appears in the early morning in spring and autumn.  The good news is, you don’t need to venture out of the city to catch this spectacular sight, as the hotel is recreating this natural occurrence at its traditional Japanese garden. With the Sea of Clouds installation, which is ongoing until November 9, the handsome garden is looking even more breathtaking, as a full moon is projected onto the mist.  Photo: Fujita Kanko Co., Ltd.Scene from a previously held event in 2025 Measuring about three metres in diameter, the moon projection is huge, and can be seen every evening at 6.40pm, 8.40pm and 9.40pm for about seven minutes per session. Starting this year, you can enjoy scenic ‘Sea of Clouds – Yakumo’ cloudscapes alongside the moon viewings, creating a dreamy atmosphere as the moon appears to float amid layers of clouds. The moon itself is also rendered in higher definition, making its surface details more vivid than ever. Photo: Fujita Kanko Co., Ltd. While you don't have to be staying at the hotel to enjoy the event, the garden is reserved for guests making use of the hotel facilities. This means you can still visit the garden and installation if you are dining at one of the hotel's many resta

While it’s common to fly in or out of Narita Airport, the city of Narita and its surroundings are often overlooked by tourists. If you’ve got a long layover or some time to kill, why not explore one of the lesser-known areas near Tokyo, away from the crowds? Narita Airport Transit & Stay Program has relaunched its free tours after a six-year hiatus, bringing back guided tours and festival experiences for travellers looking to explore the Narita area. Six free tours will officially resume from October 1, all led by English-speaking volunteer guides. Each tour has a suggested minimum budget to cover additional costs such as transport, meals and admission fees. Paid tours are also available for those looking to delve deeper into Narita. Photo: Narita International Airport CorporationNarita Airport Transit & Stay Program Tour 1 explores Narita city, taking you to popular spots like Naritasan Shinshoji Temple and Omotesando Street, lined with traditional shops. You can also add optional paid activities, including Buddhist sutra copying and dressing up in kimono or yukata. Photo: Narita International Airport CorporationNarita Airport Transit & Stay Program Tour 2 takes you through scenic Katori, including a visit to the riverside town of Sawara, which has retained its charming Edo-period atmosphere. Optional activities for this tour include a scenic boat ride down the Ono River and a visit to the Suigo Sawara Float Museum. Photo: Narita International Airport CorporationNarita

We’ve been seeing a lot of Pokémon lately, with the franchise celebrating its 30th anniversary with events in Yokohama and adorable hotel rooms at Grand Hyatt Tokyo. But this one might just take the cake. Photo: Not A HotelPoké Ball Hotel Starting this September, hotel group Not A Hotel is teaming up with sleep-tracking game Pokémon Sleep to create the ultimate Pokémon experience: a massive Poké Ball-shaped hotel in the heart of Hokkaido’s forests. 2026年9月、「#泊まれるモンスターボール」開始。 北海道の森に、極上の睡眠のためのホテルが登場します。 光の入り方。 音の静けさ。 空気の流れ。 寝具の選定。最高の睡眠体験を、 モンスターボール型ホテルの中でお過ごし下さい。 https://t.co/3OE10nypCG#ポケモンスリープ pic.twitter.com/KnTJne0838 — 『Pokémon Sleep（ポケモンスリープ）』公式 (@PokemonSleepApp) September 2, 2026 Known simply as the Poké Ball Hotel, this unique accommodation will be available through a special lottery, giving lucky winners the chance to spend the night inside. Lottery applications for stays are open from now until September 30. To apply, follow the official Pokémon Sleep account on X, then post using #StayAtMonsterBall and @PokemonSleepApp. Ten pairs (20 people) will be selected by lottery to win a one-night, two-day stay at a Monster Ball-shaped hotel. Plus, all applicants will receive a serial code for in-game items usable in Pokémon Sleep. Photo: Not A HotelPoké Ball Hotel Keep tabs on the official website for more information. More from Time Out Tokyo Here’s everything you need to know about the Suica penguin’s impending graduation One of these three characters

After much anticipation, Nanzuka – one of Tokyo’s premier contemporary art galleries – has opened its brand-new flagship space in Shibuya Axsh, marking the gallery’s return to Shibuya after a 20-year absence. Officially opened on September 12, the new gallery aims to make contemporary art more accessible through its concept of ‘social friendship’, bringing people together through art. Its open design features a doorless entrance and minimal walls, creating a welcoming space that naturally draws visitors into the exhibitions. © Keiichi Tanaami. Courtesy of NANZUKA展示風景 The inaugural exhibition celebrates contemporary Japanese artist Keiichi Tanaami with his solo show ‘Do Not Bomb’. Spanning works from the 1960s to unreleased pieces made before his death in 2024, the exhibition explores his memories of war through around 60 works, including silkscreens, collages, paintings, animations, sculptures and videos.  © Keiichi Tanaami. Courtesy of NANZUKA展覧会会場 Tanaami’s artwork also features in the gallery’s new logo. © Keiichi Tanaami. Courtesy of NANZUKA展示風景 Drawing on childhood memories, Tanaami incorporated elements of post-war popular culture, from American comics and advertising to films and manga, into his work. The exhibition traces around 60 years of his artistic career, focusing on the ‘memories of war’ he continued to depict until shortly before his death. © Keiichi Tanaami. Courtesy of NANZUKA‘Do Not Bomb’ at Nanzuka The work closest to the entrance is ‘Do Not Bomb’,