Kaila Imada

Osaka makes history in 2025 as the first Japanese city to host the World Expo twice. It last staged the event in 1970, which holds the record as the best-attended Expo of the 20th century. With big plans in place, Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan is sure to be just as memorable. World Expos have been taking place since 1851 and now occur every five years for up to six months at a time. These large-scale events bring together innovations from around the world and are often the first places to see new technology. Over the years, the likes of elevators, electric cars and the first mobile phone have been unveiled at Expos. You can discover the innovations and culture of each participating country at its own pavilion during the event. Expo 2025 is Osaka’s second and Japan’s third World Expo, following the Aichi Expo in 2005. It takes place from April 13 to October 13 2025 on Yumeshima Island in Osaka Bay. World-renowned architect Sou Fujimoto is responsible for bringing the Expo 2025 site to life with a stunning master design. Fujimoto includes plenty of nature by incorporating green spaces throughout the site as well as ample seating and shaded rest areas. The venue’s showpiece is the 20-metre high, two-kilometre round Grand Ring. Visitors can walk inside as well as on top of this giant wooden structure, which affords breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the Expo site and Osaka Bay.

「2025年大阪・関西万博」が開催中。この記念すべきイベントで期待されること、そしてチケットの入手方法などを紹介しよう。 今回、大阪は日本で初めて万国博覧会（以降、万博）を2度開催する都市として歴史を刻む。前回の開催は1970年で、万博では20世紀最大の入場者数を記録した。2025年大阪・関西万博は、壮大な構想のもと、記憶に残る万博になるに違いない。 万博は1851年以来開催されており、現在では5年に一度、会期は最大6カ月に及ぶ。このような大規模なイベントには世界中から技術的なイノベーションが集結し、しばしば新技術を紹介する最初の舞台となる。長年にわたり、エレベーター、電気自動車、初代携帯電話などが万博で発表されてきた。会期中は、参加国それぞれのパビリオンで、その国のイノベーションと文化を堪能できる。 2025年大阪・関西万博は、2005年に愛知で開催された「愛・地球博」に次いで大阪で2回目、日本で3回目の万博。開催期間は2025年4月13日（日）から10月13日（月）まで、大阪湾に浮かぶ人工島・夢洲が会場となる。 世界的に有名な建築家である藤本壮介は、2025年大阪・関西万博の会場を見事なデザインで誕生させる。藤本は、自然をふんだんに取り入れ、敷地内の至る所に緑地を設け、座席や休憩スペースを充実させる予定だ。 目玉として、高さ約20メートル、周囲約2キロの巨大なリング状の大屋根を設置。来場者は、大阪湾の雄大な景色を眺めることができる。

What a wonderful time to be in Tokyo! After a recent spell of warm weather, Tokyo's cherry blossoms are now fully open with the Japan Meteorological Agency announcing full bloom on Sunday March 30. Although the cherry blossoms are now past their peak, many trees still retain a good number of flowers and continue to offer beautiful views. However, with petals falling more each day, they’re not expected to last much longer — so now is the time to visit if you haven’t already. To keep you up to date on how the blossoms are doing, we've done the legwork, visited different sakura spots in Tokyo, so you can check up on the blooming cycle before heading out. RECOMMENDED: Make this your best sakura season yet with our ultimate guide to cherry blossoms in Tokyo

The enduring icon of spring in Japan, cherry blossoms are practically synonymous with the country itself, attracting hordes of admirers from across the world every season. While cherry blossoms generally flower in late March, they usually last no longer than a couple of weeks. So if you missed the cherry trees at peak bloom, fret not – there are lots of other spring flowers you can find that are just as beautiful in their own way. And the best part is, there’s always something putting out its petals in Tokyo during spring, from late March right through to May. RECOMMENDED: How to enjoy Tokyo's biggest attractions in one day

The best pizza in the world is in Japan. That’s according to internationally acclaimed chef David Chang, who made the brazen declaration in his Netflix series ‘Ugly Delicious’. Not only that, six acclaimed Tokyo pizzerias recently ranked in the 50 Top Pizza Asia-Pacific list for 2025. So, the proof is in the pudding – or in this case, the crust. On a scale of zero to Naples, we’d have to agree Tokyo pizza is up there with the best. While you can find Chicago deep-dish pizza, NYC-style pizza by the slice, and Japanese-style pizza with wild toppings like lotus root and seaweed in Tokyo, we’re talking about the true test of doughy excellence: Naples-style pizza. There are minimal ingredients but many variables – from the thin base to the perfectly puffy crust and carefully chosen fresh toppings.  Tokyo’s pizza places serve up impeccable Naples-style pizzas made by chefs who can use a woodfired oven like it’s an extra limb. Here’s a selection of our favourites. Reviews by Kaila Imada, Jessica Thompson and James Hadfield RECOMMENDED: The best tonkatsu restaurants in Tokyo for golden deep-fried pork

Sakura, or cherry blossoms, are synonymous with Japan. Mention spring and, chances are, you'll imagine trees bursting with delicate blooms of white and pink lining the rivers and dotting the parks everywhere in Tokyo. There's a ritual of sorts (known as hanami) that locals adhere to when enjoying this fleeting season, which lasts only for a couple of weeks at most. However, rest assured, even after the flowers have withered, you'll still find the essence of the season in the city's many food and drink offerings, from sakura-flavoured lattes to pretty desserts featuring the beautiful petals.  Here we've pulled together a guide to help you make the most of the sakura season – yes, Instagram inspiration included. Plus, we've also compiled a list of sakura facts that will make you seem like an expert in no time. ALSO SEE: The official Japan cherry blossom forecast for 2025

Cherry blossoms aren’t the only thing blooming in Tokyo this spring. Tulips are one of the many beautiful flowers popping up in and around the city between March and April. The colourful little bulbs come in hundreds of varieties and the gardens around Tokyo sure know how to show them off.  The flowers are often associated with the Netherlands, and that’s true in Japan, too. So if you’re picturing rolling fields of tulips set against a backdrop of spinning windmills, you’re in for a treat. Many of these photogenic parks aim to replicate that scene, right down to the old Dutch windmill. Read on for the best spots to see these stunning spring flowers. RECOMMENDED: The most beautiful spring flowers in Tokyo – and where to see them all

With winter now behind us, our great city is finally starting to transition into spring. In other words, the 2025 Tokyo sakura season is now upon us. According to this year's forecast, cherry blossoms are expected to start blooming on March 24 and will potentially reach full bloom by April 1.  You can find cherry blossoms in many places across Tokyo, from the city's best parks including Shinjuku Gyoen and Ueno Park, to pretty suburban streets in Nakameguro, Shibuya and Kunitachi. So with cameras at the ready, save these top places in Tokyo for the most beautiful spring blooms. RECOMMENDED: Looking to go further? Check out these amazing cherry blossom destinations across Japan

Tokyo isn’t short of brilliant cherry blossom spots, but there are also incredible sakura destinations just outside the city that are perfect for pleasant day trips. Not only are these lesser-known areas beautiful, they also tend to be less crowded than some of the cherry blossom hotspots around Tokyo. From sakura with the backdrop of Mt Fuji to traditional gardens full of pink flowers, these cherry blossom retreats are definitely worth the excursion. RECOMMENDED: The greatest cherry blossom trees of Japan and where to see them

With sakura season just around the corner, we've rounded up some of the best seasonal cherry blossom treats to indulge in while you head out to see the gorgeous pink blooms across Tokyo. These pastel pink cherry blossom-flavoured desserts and drinks also make for the perfect Instagram fodder this spring.  RECOMMENDED: the best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan – with 2025 dates

When it comes to classic Japanese street snacks, nothing is quite as ubiquitous as taiyaki – the fish-shaped cakes found on many street corners. Fact is, taiyaki is not shaped after just any good old fish; it's a representation of red sea bream or tai, which it’s so cheekily named after. This particular fish is a symbol of good luck in Japan. Taiyaki is best described as a cross between a waffle and a cake stuffed with sweet red bean paste – but you’ll also come across a variety of other fillings including custard, matcha, sweet potato and even ice cream. Some creative vendors have even reimagined this humble treat into a croissant-like hybrid with a flaky, buttery crust in place of the cake-like texture. You should definitely seek out taiyaki when visiting Tokyo. It’s a quick and cheap snack you can easily pick up and enjoy on-the-go. Here are some of the city’s best and most delicious taiyaki.  RECOMMENDED: The best street food and snacks at Tsukiji Market

The stretch of Meguro River in Nakameguro is undoubtedly one of Tokyo’s most popular cherry blossom destinations. During sakura season, the riverside is flanked with food stalls and pretty pink lanterns that light up once the sun goes down. After taking a long stroll up and down Meguro River, it’s nice to relax and marvel at the blossoms from one of the many restaurants and cafés facing the water. What’s more, some of these food and drink venues offer limited-time cherry blossom sweets and seasonal menus. RECOMMENDED: 9 best cherry blossom day trips from Tokyo

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

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

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 (¥2,180), a fresh take on the classic Old Fashioned. Got a sweet tooth? Order the Hoji Cha cocktail (¥1,870), 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.

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.

Get your daily jolt of caffeine with one of the blends from the experts at % Arabica. This coffee roaster takes pride in using beans from its own coffee farm in Hawaii, as well as sourcing high-grade speciality beans from around the world. The shop is also a global distributor of, and uses, a high-tech Japanese roasting machine – the Tornado King – that prepares the beans to precision at the touch of a button. With a flagship shop in Discovery Bay North Plaza, plus a couple of other outlets in Hong Kong, you can pick up your fresh beans with relative ease.

The folks at Barista HK are true java heads. From the moment the beans start sprouting on the tree to when the time comes to perfect each and every brew in-store, the team at Barista HK are experts in all things coffee and are keen to share its knowledge with other avid drinkers. The staff physically sift through the raw coffee beans by hand before roasting them on-site, so every bean is as perfect as can be. For those interested in learning the basic steps towards creating a great cup of coffee, there are also workshops on how to best discern your morning brew.

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 28 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, 2pm-8pm 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. 

A lot of exciting things are unfolding across Japan to coincide with the momentous World Expo now happening in Osaka. One such project is the absolutely adorable Hello Kitty-themed airport down in Kyushu – which is actually a rebranding of the existing Oita Airport, located in Kunisaki, Oita prefecture. Photo: Sanrio Entertainment Co., Ltd. As of April 13, the airport has officially renamed itself Oita Hello Kitty Airport, and it will stay that way until October 13 – the end date of Expo 2025. To commemorate the event, an official ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on the first day with appearances by Hello Kitty, My Melody and Kuromi.  Photo: Sanrio Entertainment Co., Ltd. The Hello Kitty revamp includes new interior and exterior decorations featuring all your favourite Sanrio characters, from the outdoor signage to the international arrivals area.  Photo: Sanrio Entertainment Co., Ltd. As Oita is renowned for its hot springs, the airport has also set up a kawaii photo spot where you can snap a picture of yourself inside a massive bathing bucket along with Hello Kitty, Pompompurin, Cinnamoroll, Kuromi and My Melody. Photo: Sanrio Entertainment Co., Ltd. As if that wasn’t enough, those travelling from the airport will receive Sanrio-themed luggage tags, and you’ll also be able to pick up fun Oita Hello Kitty Airport official merch from the onsite souvenir shop.  Photo: Sanrio Entertainment Co., Ltd. Some of the fun items available in the souvenir store include keychai

Fashion label Loewe has finally brought ‘Crafted World’ – its acclaimed large-scale travelling exhibition – to Tokyo. Having debuted in Shanghai last year, the free exhibition celebrates the Spanish fashion house’s rich history and heritage, offering an immersive behind-the-scenes look at the iconic designs, creative collaborations, and craftsmanship that have propelled Loewe to cult status in the fashion world. 画像提供：LVMHファッション・グループ・ジャパン合同会社 ロエベ ジャパン The exhibition was designed in collaboration with renowned architectural firm OMA, known for creating some of today's most stunning buildings and structures – from the Taipei Performing Art Centre to the Design Museum in London. Its interactive rooms are divided into specific themes where you can experience Loewe's evolution, from its founding in Madrid back in 1846 as a leather workshop atelier to its massive presence in today’s fashion industry.  画像提供：LVMHファッション・グループ・ジャパン合同会社 ロエベ ジャパン「手から生まれたもの」 Highlights include the 'Made by Hand' room, where you can see some of the brand's early bespoke leather pieces as well as works created by Pablo Picasso.  画像提供：LVMHファッション・グループ・ジャパン合同会社 ロエベ ジャパン「城の部屋」 In recent years, Loewe's collections have become extremely coveted thanks to its fun collaborations with Kyoto-based ceramics studio Suna Fujita and Studio Ghibli. To learn more about these collections, you can explore rooms like the 'Castle Room' featuring a 2m-tall reinterpretation of 'Howl's Moving Castle' as a Loewe bag.  画像提供：LV

Tokyo is often recognised for having some of the world’s cleanest airports, but its two major international hubs also earn high praise for their exceptional dining options. In a recent study conducted by SEO for Restaurants, the digital marketing agency analysed data from airport websites and Google Maps to compare the prices, variety and quality of food and dining options at airports around the world. Both Tokyo’s Haneda Airport and Narita International Airport made the top five, coming in third and fourth place respectively. They trail only behind the top-ranked Singapore Changi Airport and Zurich Airport in second place. Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaJapan Loves Curry at Haneda Airport Garden We couldn’t agree more with this ranking, as both Haneda and Narita offer great dining options for whatever you may be craving. Both airports are home to outposts of some of the city's most popular eateries, including the wide variety of options at Narita’s Airport Terminal 2 Japan Food Hall. If you're looking to keep yourself busy while waiting for your flight, the Haneda Airport Garden is another great option packed with plenty of dining (and shopping) options. Here’s the top ten airports listed in the ranking:  Singapore Changi Airport  Zurich Airport  Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport)  Narita International Airport  Hamad International Airport  Munich Airport  Seoul Incheon International Airport  Dubai International Airport  Istanbul Airport  Charles de Gaulle Airport More f

アジアで最も素晴らしいレストランを決定する「アジアのベストレストラン50」の2025年版が、2025年3月25日に韓国・ソウルで発表された。今回のランキングには、東京のレストラン9軒が選出。そのほか、大阪と福岡のレストランが1軒ずつランクインしている。 トップに輝いたのは、バンコクの「ガガン（Gaggan）」。同店は、過去4度にわたって「アジアのベストレストラン賞」を獲得している。リストに載ったレストラン数が最も多い都市としては、東京とバンコクがそれぞれ9軒で並んだ。 2位は香港の「ザ チェアマン（The Chairman）、3位には同じく香港から「ウィング（WING）」、4位に東京の「セザン（Sézanne）」、5位にソウルの「ミングルス（mingles）」がランクイン。セザンは残念ながら首位からランクを落としたが、引き続き国内トップレベルのレストランであることは間違いない。 Photo: Keisuke Tanigawaフロリレージュ 2013年以降選出され続けている「ナリサワ」（12位）、「フロリレージュ（Florilège）」（17位）、「傳」（22位）は、ランキングの常連店。今回、新たに加わったのは、モダンフレンチの「クローニー（Crony）」（30位）、ペルー料理と和食を融合させた「マス（Maz）」（43位）、新進の日本料理店「明寂」（45位）という3店だ。 トップ50に入った日本のレストランは以下の通り。 4位 セザン／東京 8位 ラシーム（La Cime）／大阪 12位 ナリサワ／東京 17位 フロリレージュ／東京 22位 傳／東京 30位 クローニー／東京 33位 鮨さいとう／東京 34位 茶禅華／東京 36位 ゴウ（Goh）／福岡 43位 マス（Maz）／東京 45位 明寂／東京 全リストの詳細は、アジアのベストレストラン50の公式ウェブサイトから確認してほしい。 関連記事 『新宿三丁目ベストカフェ7選』 『タイムアウトが「世界のベストピザ 19」ランキングを発表』 『2025年「アジアのトップピザ50」に東京の6店がランクイン』 『東京、2024年オープンのベストレストラン10』 『世界で最も食事がおいしい都市ランキング トップ20』 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 

In 2022, teamLab became part of Osaka’s expansive Nagai Botanical Garden in Higashisumiyoshi, a lush urban oasis featuring a skatepark, eateries and the captivating teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka, which is home to a stunning collection of immersive digital art installations. Just in time for spring, teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka is bringing back its mesmerising floral installation ‘Life is Flickering Light Floating in the Dark - Nemophila’. This exhibition features a vast field of tiny nemophila flowers – also known as baby blue eyes – lit up at night. Photo: teamLab Like all immersive teamLab installations, this one changes when you interact with it. When people stand close to the flowers, they will end up shining brighter while producing a different tone. The light then radiates out, spreading across to nearby nemophila until all the flowers resonate with the same hue. When this light approaches from the opposite direction, it signals the presence of others, enhancing visitors’ awareness of both themselves and those around them. Photo: teamLab You can catch ‘Life is Flickering Light Floating in the Dark - Nemophila’ at teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka from April 10 to May 18.  In addition to the nemophila light up, the park also highlights the season’s cherry blossoms with the artwork ‘Floating Resonating Lamps on the Large Pond - Ambiguous Cherry Blossoms’. This is on display until April 13. For more information, visit teamLab’s website. More from Time Out Osaka

Spring is one of the most beautiful times of year in Japan with colourful flowers blooming everywhere you look. Even in Greater Tokyo, you can find some of the season's most stunning showstoppers such as pretty wisteria, colourful tulips and a sea of nemophila. For one of the best shows of wisteria in this region, you'll have a make a day trip to Ashikaga Flower Park in Tochigi prefecture. The annual, ever popular Fujinohana Monogatari Ofuji Festival runs from April 12 to May 18, with the evening light-up set for April 19 to May 18.  Photo: Ashikaga Flower Park The park is one of Japan’s top destinations for wisteria, boasting 350 trees that bloom from mid-April to mid-May. The stunning flowers, which dangle from wooden trellises, come in a riot of colours including violet, blue, pink, white and yellow blossoms. Each colour tends to bloom at different times: pink first, followed by purple, white and then yellow wisteria. Photo: Ashikaga Flower Park A must-see is the park’s magnificent 150-year-old wisteria tree, which is lit up in the evenings and surrounded by still water that reflects the colourful flowers. This ofuji, or Great Wisteria Tree, has a canopy covering about 1,000sqm and features a jaw-dropping 80,000 individual purple blossoms. Photo: Ashikaga Flower Park The park is also home to a dreamy 80m-long wisteria walk, featuring white blooms drooping over you from the trellis above. Photo: Ashikaga Flower P

Tokyo’s status as a global culinary powerhouse has never been in doubt, and the latest Asia's 50 Best Restaurants 2025 list only reinforces the capital’s delicious reputation. This year’s edition of the prestigious ranking, announced at a ceremony in Seoul, South Korea on March 25, includes nine Tokyo restaurants. In addition to the capital’s representatives, one restaurant in Osaka and another in Fukuoka were also included in the ranking. In terms of cities with the most restaurants on the list, Tokyo and Bangkok tied with nine each. Taking the top spot this year is Gaggan in Bangkok, followed by The Chairman (Hong Kong, No 2), Wing (Hong Kong, No 3), Sézanne (Tokyo, No 4), and Mingles (Seoul, No 5). Sézanne was bumped down a few spots from first place last year, but remains the highest-ranking restaurant in Japan on the list. Photo: Keisuke Tanigawa Tokyo’s Narisawa (No 12), Florilège (No 17) and Den (No 22) all make a reappearance on the list, having been featured regularly in the ranking since 2013.  In addition to these stalwarts, a few other Tokyo hotspots made the list for the first time. The newcomers include modern French restaurant Crony (No 30), Peruvian-Japanese eatery Maz (No 43), and French omakase specialist Myoujyaku (No 45). Here are all the restaurants in Japan that made it onto the 2025 list of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants: No 4 Sézanne, Tokyo No 8 La Cime, Osaka No 12 Narisawa, Tokyo No 17 Florilège, Tokyo No 22 Den, Tokyo No 30 Crony, Tokyo No 33 Sushi Sa

Finally – the most anticipated season of the year has arrived! Following an unusually warm weekend in the capital, the Japan Meteorological Agency has officially announced that the 2025 cherry blossom season has begun in Tokyo. Just this afternoon, the agency observed that six cherry blossom buds have opened up on Tokyo's official sakura sample tree at Yasukuni Shrine. This long-standing somei-yoshino cherry blossom tree serves as the official marker for forecasting and declaring the start of Tokyo’s sakura season each year. You can find more details on this methodology through the Japan Meteorological Agency (in Japanese only). View this post on Instagram A post shared by 靖国神社 (@yasukuni.official) This year’s cherry blossom season began five days earlier than last year, with last year’s bloom having been delayed due to cooler temperatures. According to the agency, the somei-yoshino blossoms are expected to reach full bloom across the capital in about a week.  Looking to make the most of the 2025 cherry blossom season in Tokyo? We have all the guides you’ll need right here:  17 best places to see sakura in Tokyo  14 spectacular cherry blossom illuminations in Tokyo  19 best cherry blossom festivals and events in Tokyo More from Time Out Tokyo Mt Fuji has increased ticket prices for the 2025 climbing season Time Out Market Osaka sneak peek: 17 kitchens and two bars featuring the city’s best chefs and restaurants 6 Tokyo pizzerias ranked in the 50 Top

Hurray, now that spring is finally here – this year’s cherry blossom season is off to a good start. If you prefer a leisurely cherry blossom experience with more elbow room, this list is for you. We’ve rounded up a few of the more spacious and less crowded (only relatively, to be honest) cherry blossom sites around Tokyo for you to enjoy. Photo: Picture Cells/PixtaKanda River cherry blossoms Kanda River The Kanda River is one of the lesser-known sakura spots in Tokyo. It has similar views to the Meguro River in Nakameguro, but minus the crowds. While several stations are within walking distance from the river, a good access point is Edogawabashi Station, whose Exit 1A leads you directly to the start of the sakura stretch. Double your blossom viewing with a stop by the pristine and scenic Higo-Hosokawa Garden, which is also along the Kanda River.  Photo: Lim Chee Wah Aoyama Cemetery Located in the upscale neighbourhood of Aoyama, this cemetery has been around since 1874. It’s where many of Tokyo’s most significant personalities were laid to rest. The site also has a lot of sakura trees, and it’s especially beautiful in spring. Since this is a cemetery, it sees less crowds and has a more quiet and subdued atmosphere.  Photo: Lim Chee WahKoishikawa Botanical Gardens Koishikawa Botanical Garden Run by the University of Tokyo, this botanical garden is out of the way and hence sees less tourist traffic. However, it has a huge sakura section, with some of the tallest and bigg

Now that we're nearing the end of March, this year’s cherry blossom season is just a few days away. The Japan Meteorological Corporation recently released its ninth 2025 sakura forecast update, giving us a good picture of when to schedule cherry blossom outings this year.  Photo: Japan Meteorological Corporation According to this updated forecast from March 21, it seems that in most places across Japan, the cherry blossoms will bloom generally around the same time as they have in the past few years, with fluctuations only by a couple of days. It's also important to note that the weather could still have a massive impact on when this year’s blossoms open up. Take last year for example, when cooler temperatures in early spring eventually resulted in the flowers blooming a few weeks later than usual. So far for Tokyo, the cherry blossoms are predicted to start flowering a couple days earlier than the last forecast with the flowering date set for March 24 and potential full bloom by March 30.  Photo: Sean Pavone/DreamstimePhilosopher's Path Kyoto In Kyoto, the blossoms are expected to open up on March 28 with full bloom by April 6. Nearby, Osaka is also looking at March 29 for its initial flowering date and full bloom arriving by April 5.  Taking a look further north, Sapporo will be the last to see the cherry blossoms open up, with the expected flowering date on April 26 and full bloom by April 30. We'll continue to keep you posted as the forecast changes. The next update fr

Looking forward to checking out Time Out Market Osaka? Well, we’ve gotten a sneak peek at the new space and can say there’s no other dining hall or market quite like this one anywhere else in Japan. To build excitement ahead of the grand opening on Friday March 21, Time Out Market Osaka hosted a special pre-opening celebration, giving locals a first look – and taste – of the vibrant new space.Here are some photos from the lively event on Tuesday March 18. For a closer look at all the food and drink options at Time Out Market Osaka, check out our market roundup. Photo: Kisa Toyoshima Photo: Kisa Toyoshima DJ YonYon spinning beats throughout the evening. Photo: Kisa Toyoshima Photo: Kisa Toyoshima Hiroshi Mizohata, President of the Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau takes the stage. Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaDJのFPM Tomoyuki Tanaka of Fantastic Plastic Machine. Photo: Kisa Toyoshima Photo: Kisa Toyoshima Photo: Kisa Toyoshima A warm reception for radio DJ Takuto Onuki. Photo: Kisa Toyoshima Photo: Kisa Toyoshima More from Time Out Tokyo Mt Fuji has increased ticket prices for the 2025 climbing season Time Out Market Osaka sneak peek: 17 kitchens and two bars featuring the city’s best chefs and restaurants Here's the official Japan cherry blossom forecast for 2025 See 4,000 cherry blossoms light up at Niigata's Takada Castle this spring Shinjuku’s Mylord department store has closed for good Want to be the first to know what’s cool in Tokyo? Sign up to our newslette