Kasey Furutani

While New Year’s Day in Japan, called shogatsu, is normally a quiet holiday dedicated to family time, New Year's Eve in Tokyo is anything but. So spend Tuesday December 31 2024 like a Tokyoite by heading to a countdown party, visiting a temple or shrine for New Year prayers, and ringing the ceremonial bell to rid yourself of past year's bad luck before ushing in the new year. Here's to an amazing 2025! RECOMMENDED: 2024-25 New Year's Eve last-night and overnight train schedules across Tokyo

It’s no secret that Japan is filled with some of the most picturesque sightseeing spots in the world – we’re talking soothing bamboo forests, summer festivals and traditional villages. So many of Japan’s historic sites have been damaged or destroyed in natural disasters and wars, so the ones that still remain are considered rare and therefore special. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, or Unesco, aims to preserve global cultural, historial or natural landmarks by designating them as World Heritage Sites. Including the Okinawan islands, Japan boasts a whopping 26 World Heritage Sites, ranging from traditional villages to Shinto and Buddhist shrines and temples, and more. Thanks to preservation efforts, both tourists and residents can still visit these ancient sites and learn about the history of Japan. Here are some of Japan’s best Unesco World Heritage Sites, from the Hiroshima Peace Memorial to Kyoto’s ancient monuments.  RECOMMENDED: The most underrated prefectures in Japan

Golden Week is a big deal in Japan. Started in 1948, Golden Week is one of the longest holiday seasons in the country. During this time, the perfect spring weather usually calls for travel and outdoor fun. Spelled in katakana, the script used for English loan words, the name 'Golden Week' was coined in 1951 after the phrase ‘golden time’, which was widely used by the Japanese radio industry to refer to primetime listening hours. With so many holidays clustered together in Golden Week, a larger-than-usual number of people tuned in to the radio, attended movie theatres and spent money on leisure activities. Starting at the end of April and finishing in the first week of May, Golden Week consists of four national holidays that sometimes line up with the weekend when luck is on our side. This year, the holidays start on Monday April 29 followed by days off on Friday May 3 and Monday May 6. Golden Week is usually the busiest travel season, with many city dwellers travelling internationally and domestic tourists returning home on packed bullet trains and buses. It's also a time for countless events in Tokyo, from food festivals to art exhibitions. If you're looking to join the fun, we have the guide for you. Here are the four holidays that make up Golden Week.  RECOMMENDED: The best Golden Week events in Tokyo

With the weather warming up nicely, we’re ready to spend some sunny days in the great outdoors to soak up as much Vitamin D as possible. Tokyo might look like a concrete jungle, but the big city is also home to plenty of greenery, from traditional Japanese gardens to hidden rooftop escapes. Tokyo isn't short on spacious parks, either. These inner-city green spaces are perfect for escaping from the hustle and bustle of the busy streets, especially when the sun is out. So pack a picnic, apply the sunscreen and laze the day away in one of Tokyo’s best parks.  RECOMMENDED: The best outdoor adventure parks near Tokyo

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: 14 best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan – with dates

It’s no secret that Japan has a stunning amount of beauty. From the lavender fields of Furano in Hokkaido down to the crystal clear beaches of Okinawa, this small country is filled with gorgeous nature, contemporary museums, mountainside temples and of course, those pretty springtime cherry blossoms and colourful autumn leaves. With so much to see, it's impossible to do Japan justice with just one visit. This explains why people miss Japan more than any other country in the world. So this extraordinary island archipelago definitely calls for repeats visits – how else are you going to see all these 24 beautiful sight in Japan? Recommended: The most beautiful festivals in Japan 

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

Famously photogenic and filled with national landmarks both modern and natural, the Tokyo cityscape is not to be missed. What was originally a city of canals is now a bustling metropolis, from Tokyo Bay and the outskirts of Chiba in the east to the rolling mountains of Okutama in the west. Of course, to get the best views you need a high vantage point, and fortunately Tokyo has plenty of those. You can get incredible bird’s eye views of the city from these observation decks and viewpoints – all completely free. RECOMMENDED: The best nature escapes in Tokyo

It might seem like the grass is greener in other prefectures – think of the temple-lined hills of Kamakura or the majestic Mt Fuji – but there are plenty of hidden pockets of nature in Tokyo. The city was once a vast, sprawling landscape of trees and fields before it became a business playground filled with suited salarymen and deluxe department stores, but you can still find some quiet nature spots, even close to bustling train stations.  Here are some of the best nature escapes in Tokyo, from lush valleys to hiking trails.  RECOMMENDED: The best art day trips from Tokyo

Japan is a book lovers’ paradise. Home to internationally renowned authors such as Haruki Murakami and Banana Yoshimoto, Japan has plenty to offer both on the page and on the streets. Whether you’re in Tokyo’s book town, Jimbocho, or one of the manga cafés dotting the country, you’re never far away from some quality reading material.  But it’s not just about the words themselves – every bookworm knows the importance of having a perfect place to read and Japan knows it, too. From rural Shikoku to urban Tokyo and Osaka, these bookstores and libraries combine Japan’s love of architecture and literature. RECOMMENDED: Marvel at some of the most beautiful places in Japan

タイムアウト東京 > トラベル >東京近郊、日帰り旅行ベスト10選 東京には世界最高峰のレストランから無限のショッピングスポット、緑豊かな森まで、全てがそろっている。しかし都心だけでなく、少し離れた郊外や近隣の県にもベストな場所はたくさんある。南に出かけて神奈川県の温泉、北に出かけて栃木の神社、山梨で富士山の絶景を見るのもいいだろう。 東京はエキサイティングな場所だが、ここで紹介する日帰り旅行ではさらにいい休暇の過ごし方が見つかるかもしれない。  ※2021年9月公開記事を情報のみ確認してアップデート 関連記事『関東近郊、週末に行けるハイキングスポット10選』

What was your first introduction to Japan? Was it the kawaii culture of Hello Kitty or the ever-evolving Pokémon? For many, the wholesome films of Studio Ghibli were the magical doors inviting Totoro, Kiki and other famous figures of Japanese culture into children’s minds across the world. Chase after your childhood nostalgia in Japan, where your whole itinerary can revolve around the elusive animation studio. You’ll find bits and pieces of Ghibli’s influence all around Tokyo. You might not encounter a giant tanuki or travel in a floating castle, but Tokyo has plenty to offer for the die-hard Studio Ghibli fan – from the inspirations behind popular films like ‘Spirited Away’ and ‘My Neighbor Totoro’ to authentic souvenir shopping. Around three hours from Tokyo in Aichi prefecture, there's also the incredible Ghibli Park to visit. You can enjoy faithful recreations of famous Studio Ghibli movies scenes, interactive displays and exclusive merchandise shops. Read our ultimate guide to Ghibli Park here. RECOMMENDED: Discover these places in Japan that look like scenes from Spirited Away

Initially released ahead of the Tokyo 2020 Games, the Japan National Tourism Organisation released ten videos in English, Chinese and Korean, explaining the unwritten rules of Japanese manners and etiquette to the unaccustomed visitor. These short and sweet and entertaining videos star samurai, sumo wrestlers, ninjas and geisha to explain common travel topics like photography, tipping in a restaurant and visiting a temple or shrine.  It's now the perfect time to revisit these videos as Japan gears up to reopen to the world on Tuesday October 11. In autumn 2019, Kyoto placed a ¥10,000 fine for photography of geisha and private alleyways in the historic Gion. The World Heritage city also launched a smartphone update informing tourists of respectful behaviour. This video touches upon photography etiquette and teaches tourists to only take photos when the subject consents to it.  Bathing in an onsen or sento is a distinctly Japanese experience, but it can be intimidating for those not used to bathing in public. This video explains the basics of public bathing etiquette, such as not placing your towel in the bath (hint: place it on top of your head). Nothing is worse than feeling confused without any clothes on, so read our onsen etiquette guide for a more detailed explanation of public bathing.   Okay, we’re all guilty of letting a friend

There have been plenty of transportation deals for Japan residents over the last couple years, including discounts on bullet train rides across the country. If you’re thinking of sticking close to Tokyo, the great-value JR Tokyo Wide Pass gives you unlimited rides on shinkansen and limited express trains in the Kanto region, so you could go as far as Nikko, Mt Fuji or even Izu.   Available to those with a foreign (ie, non-Japanese) passport – including tourists and foreign residents – this pass lets you ride bullet trains and limited expresses as much as you want over three consecutive days.  Here are the train lines covered by the pass: JR East lines Tokyo Monorail Izu Kyuko Line Fujikyu Railway Lines ​​Joshin Dentetsu Line Saitama New Urban Transit (Ōmiya - the Railway Museum)​ ​ Tokyo Waterfront Area Rapid Transit Line (Rinkai Line)​ ​ Nikko, Kinugawa, and SPACIA Kinugawa trains (only between JR East and Tobu Railway lines) Tobu Railway lines between Shimo-imaichi and Tōbu-Nikkō / Kinugawa-onsen (ordinary and rapid trains). However, between Kurihashi and Shimo-imaichi, you can only use Tobu Railway express trains.See the website for the full list as well as the terms and conditions. Need some trip inspo? If you’re heading north, hit up the picturesque Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki, go for a dip in an onsen in Nikko or taste some juicy gyoza in dumpling-loving Utsunomiya. For something a bit more iconic, head inland to the resort town of Karuizawa or to Yamanshi’s Lake

It’s been a while since international tourists were allowed entry into Japan. We know it's a long and frustrating wait, so we hope to satiate your wanderlust temporarily with this relaxing aerial video of spectacular scenery across Japan. For the time being, enjoy some armchair travel and keeping researching your dream trips. This 8K video from Armadas is the perfect tour through Japan from your living room. The one-hour video was filmed from 2018 to 2019, back when domestic and international tourists were still allowed to travel in Japan. Photo: Armadas/YouTubeIzu, Shizuoka The video starts off in the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka prefecture, south of Tokyo. Izu is known for its bluffside hikes, abundant Kawazuzakura cherry blossoms in Minami-Izu, and the Izu-Misaki lighthouse. Next, we jet off to Yakushima, a small island off the coast of Kagoshima (1:12). A hiker’s paradise, Yakushima is filled with cedar trees, moss and waterfalls – a complete natural respite. You can even spot the Nagata Lighthouse at the 6:57 mark. Photo: Armadas/YouTubeKyoto Shortly after that, it’s on to Kyoto, which is arguably its most beautiful in autumn. The video shows one of the city’s serene temples surrounded by vermillion maple trees. After that, we travel north to Hakodate, in Hokkaido (11:35), known for Mt Hakodate and the curious star-shaped fort.  Photo: Armadas/YouTubeTokyo Skytree The next aerial view features our favourite city, Tokyo, readily identif

Japan has plenty of theme parks and roller coasters, from the new Super Nintendo World to the oddly-named Sagamiko Resort Pleasure Forest. However, the scariest park is still Fuji-Q Highland in Yamanashi. Known for its record-breaking, terrifying roller coasters, Fuji-Q makes for a great day trip from Tokyo, especially in winter when you’ll have clear views of a snow-capped Mt Fuji. Photo: Fujikyu Co. Ltd If you’re looking to get the views without the adrenaline rush, you’re in luck. As of last summer, Fuji-Q now has a 55m-tall observation deck right beside the theme park's scariest roller coaster. Because it's as tall as the rollercoaster's tallest point, the observation deck boasts the same grand view of Mt Fuji that you'd probably miss while screaming on the ride.  Photo: Fujikyu Highland Alongside its observation deck, the tower was unveiled with another attraction called the Fujiyama Walk: a course where you can traverse in a harness midair. Soon, however, the tower will be offering yet another feature in the form of a giant spiral slide. The mouth of the giant slide is built near the 55m mark and visitors will be able to slide on a tube all the way down to the bottom of the tower. The Fujiyama Slider is set to open sometime this summer, with details of prices and admission hours to be announced at a later date.  Photo: Fuji Kyuko Both Fujiyama Sky Deck and Fujiyama Walk cost ¥1,000 to ¥1,400 each, depending on the season. However, a one-day pass (¥6,200) will get

Umami is one of the most ubiquitous tastes in Japanese cuisine. You might not notice it at first, but after eating a lot of Japanese food, you’ll begin to taste the moreish, savory goodness. Dashi, a clear broth made from dried kombu and katsuobushi (fermented skipjack tuna) flakes, is the umami base for most Japanese meals, including miso soup, noodle dishes like ramen or udon and tamagoyaki.  Eric Wolfinger, a food photographer known for his work with the San Francisco bakery Tartine, introduces the world to dashi in the short film, ‘Dashi Journey’. The 15-minute documentary follows Shinobu Namae, head chef at the Michelin-starred French restaurant L'effervescence in Tokyo, as he searches for the origins of dashi. L’effervescence is known for its Japanese twist on classic French food, including the use of dashi in place of traditional French veal broth.  The surprisingly heartwarming film takes us to Rebun Island in Hokkaido for kombu, where we see how kelp is dried, and Makurazaki in Kagoshima, where we meet a family-run katsuobushi business. Dashi is a deceptively complex broth: using ingredients from the sea, it brings a distinctly Japanese taste to every meal it touches. Along with Namae, we are introduced to the people behind the umami-rich dashi, and the old-school practices still used today. The film, with English subtitles, is available to watch for free from anywhere on Vimeo or via the official website. In the mood for more mouth-watering films? Check out

Getting a little antsy from staying at home all day? Theme parks, including Yomiuriland, Tokyo Dome City and Yokohama’s Hakkeijima Sea Paradise, have uploaded free videos of their attractions – including bungee jumping, VR games and of course, roller coasters – so you can get your adrenaline rush from the comfort of your couch.  Here are some of the best, and scariest, rides.  Thunder Dolphin at Tokyo Dome City The adorably-named Thunder Dolphin is not for the faint of heart. The steel roller coaster starts with an 80-degree incline, where you’ll be rewarded with a gorgeous view of Tokyo, before the roller coaster reaches speeds of 130kmph, whipping through Tokyo Dome’s famous Big O. Roller Coaster at Hanayashiki  Located in Asakusa, Hanayashiki is Tokyo’s oldest amusement park, dating back to 1853. It is also home to Tokyo’s oldest roller coaster, which opened in 1953. The aptly named Roller Coaster might not be the most thrilling ride as it only reaches speeds up to 42kmph. But, if you crank up the sound, you’ll notice some scary creaking noises coming from the nearly 70-year-old coaster.  Bandit at Yomiuriland  Bandit, Yomiuriland’s classic roller coaster, is surprisingly long – the three-minute ride will whip you through the forests of western Tokyo, reaching speeds of 110kmph. Surf Coaster Leviathan at Hakkeijima Sea Paradise  Yokohama’s Surf Coaster Leviathan (at Hakkeijima Sea Paradise) is Japan’s only roller coaster that travels o

It seems like teamLab is everywhere these days, bringing some much-needed light and fun in the midst of this glum pandemic. The world-conquering art collective has all sorts of ongoing projects like this installation in a soy sauce storehouse, not to mention the digital art ramen restaurant inside Tokyo's teamLab Planets. For an outdoor option, the 500,000sqm Mifuneyama Rakuen Park in Kyushu’s Taeko Onsen town is hosting teamLab’s annual summer-autumn installation, ‘A Forest Where Gods Live’. The pieces of indoor and outdoor art meld Kyushu’s lush forest with teamLab’s signature lighting and projections.  Photo: Graffiti Nature - Living in the Ruins of a Bathhouse, Red List Nature and spirituality are a huge part of ‘A Forest Where Gods Live’, and the art respects and reflects humanity’s connection to the land. The 3,000-year-old Okusu tree sits on the grounds of Takeo Shrine on the edge of the park, while Mifuneyama Rakuen Hotel is on the other side, separated by the forest and teamLab art. ‘Life is Continuous Light - Azalea Valley’ and ‘Resonating Mt Mifuneyama’ bring the two sites to life with illuminations that shine and fade, highlighting the natural beauty of the forest.  Photo: teamLab Megaliths in the Bath House Ruins ‘Megaliths in Bath House Ruins’ is inspired by Mifuneyama Rakuen’s ancient boulders and bath houses. Digital projections of flowers or water move between slanted monolithic pillars, lighting up the abandoned b

Art collective teamLab has always got something exciting up its sleeve, whether it’s an immersive exhibition in the heart of a forest or a digital art vegan ramen restaurant. This Tokyo pop-up, teamLab Reconnect, is yet another brilliant example of how teamLab works to incorporate digital art into everyday life with a visually stunning sauna experience. The exhibition consists of three areas designed to invigorate your senses: the sauna area, a cold bathing area for cooling off and the art submersion area for resting. The artworks are all based around the theme of supernatural phenomena and are designed to combine different mental and physical sensations into a single unified experience. Photo: teamLab'Levitation' Installations that you’ll come across include ‘Levitation’, which uses teamLab’s signature style of art that responds to the viewer’s physical presence. When approached or touched, the glowing ball will fall and move around, but when left alone, it will rise back into its original position. Photo: teamLab'Ephemeral Solidified Light' Meanwhile, ‘Proliferating Immense Life - A Whole Year per Year’ (pictured top) is a grove of digital flowers blooming and growing before your eyes. When approached, the flowers will wilt and die, beginning a cycle of constant renewal. This installation changes with the seasons and is set to feature autumn-inspired visuals from October 18. Photo: teamLab'Step into the Light Circle' In the cold bathing area, you can ste

Off the coast of Niigata lies Sado Island, one of the best off-the-beaten-path destinations in Japan. The island is locally famous for its distinctive taraibune tub boats, dramatic coastlines and its annual festival, Earth Celebration. Held every summer, Earth Celebration is a taiko drumming music festival that attracts domestic and international tourists to the island. Although Covid-19 has cancelled festivals throughout Tokyo and Japan, Earth Celebration has decided to take a different approach, streaming the festival online for everyone to watch. Hosted by the taiko group Kodo, the two-day online festival will feature taiko drumming performances highlighting Sado Island’s distinctive culture. The first show will take place on August 21 at 4pm JST and will begin with a pre-concert talk and introduction to Earth Celebration and Kodo's activities. The Harbour Concert will then start at 5pm followed up by a post-concert interview with three taiko drumming stars. The second concert will take place on August 22 at 4pm JST and will also begin with a pre-concert talk before the Kodo all-star special performance. The concert will be followed up by more interviews as well as a pre-recorded farewell video.  Photo: Earth Celebration Committee Live-stream tickets are ¥2,500 for one concert, but you can also purchase a ticket for both concerts for ¥4,000. If you miss the performance, don't worry. The archived recordings will be available immediately after the live-strea

日本屈指のグルメで知られている北海道。新鮮な魚介類、濃厚なアイスクリーム、そしてラーメンは地元の人たちにも観光客にも人気のフードだ。そんな北海道のラーメンファンのために誕生した、ユニークなホテル客室が第2弾のコラボレーション企画を始めた。 Photo: Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel   札幌のナイトライフエリア、すすきの中心部に位置する札幌東急REIホテルでは、ラーメンをテーマにした特別な客室『山岡家部屋』に期間限定で泊まることができる。 この客室は、札幌をルーツとするとんこつベースのラーメンで有名なチェーン、ラーメン山岡家とのコラボレーションによって生まれた。ベッドサイドや壁にはメニューの看板やのれんがあり、まるでラーメン屋で眠ってしまったかのような錯覚を覚えるだろう。 Photo: Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel 宿泊の際には、ラーメン山岡家、極煮干し本舗、味噌ラーメン山岡家で使える「ラーメン一杯無料券」のほか、乾麺5種類セットが入った「山岡家　乾麺コンプリートボックス」や「山岡家オリジナル冷感マスク」「オリジナル宿泊証明書」が付いてくる。 月〜木曜の宿泊者には限定で「山岡家こだわりの海苔」のプレゼントも。「山岡家　乾麺コンプリートボックス」の箱は、組み立てると山岡家店舗を再現したペーパークラフトになっていて、子どもと工作するのも楽しそうだ。 予約と宿泊期間は、2021年9月13日（月）まで。1人利用は6,000円、2人利用の場合は1人当たり5,000円から泊まることができる。今すぐの遠出が難しい人は、阿寒湖の注目イベントや知床のサウナ情報をチェックしておこう。 『山岡家部屋』の詳細はこちら 関連記事 『アイヌ文化とモーメントファクトリーのコラボ、カムイルミナが北海道で開催』 『世界自然遺産の流氷を見渡すサウナが知床にリニューアルオープン』 『東京、昆布水つけ麺 15選』 『お台場の大江戸温泉物語で閉館前の夏イベントが開催中』 『都心から1時間半、湯河原に湯と本と食のリトリート施設が誕生』 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  

Hokkaido is known for its beautiful landscapes and incredible culinary scene. Both locals and tourists can indulge in Hokkaido’s fresh seafood, rich ice cream and, of course, piping hot bowls of ramen anytime of year. Now, noodle lovers can make sure their whole trip to Sapporo revolves around the humble soup noodle at these special ramen-themed rooms at Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel, located in the heart of Susukino, Sapporo’s main nightlife district. Photo: Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel A collaboration with Ramen Yamaokaya, a chain famous for its pork-based miso ramen with roots in Sapporo, these limited-time rooms are decked out with all the ramen necessities. The rooms are much more comfortable than falling asleep drunk in a ramen restaurant at 2am – although the detailed decor may have you thinking that’s what you’ve done when you first wake up. In the room there’s a photo of the restaurant counter next to the bed, in addition to Ramen Yamaokaya’s signature red sign and curtains, ready to spark some sodium-filled dreams. Plus, your room will smell like the restaurant, too, upon arrival with the complimentary ramen soup you’ll receive.   Photo: Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel All this ramen paraphernalia will definitely have you craving some salty noods. Fret not: Ramen Yamaokaya will provide plenty of goodies to satisfy your porky midnight cravings. The hotel stay comes with a variety pack of Yamaokaya ramen in shio, shoyu, classic miso, special miso and spicy miso flavours, as well as

There’s plenty of teamLab to go around. Whether you’re travelling to Okayama or just chilling at home, you have lots of ways to interact with the art collective's inimitable works. Last July, teamLab Planets Tokyo in Toyosu debuted their monolith-like sculpture showcasing a digital waterfall. Titled ‘Universe of Water Particles Falling from the Sky’, the sculpture is right outside the museum and free for anyone to see. Photo: teamLab, 'Universe of Fire Particles Falling from the Sky' © teamLab On April 7 this year, the sculpture was transformed into the artwork ‘Universe of Fire Particles Falling from the Sky’, quite the opposite of the refreshing waterfall. Instead of cascading water, the monolith now features bright red and orange flames tumbling down, similar to volcanic eruption. Like other teamLab artworks, it is also influenced by human presence. When a person steps onto the floor panel, the shape of the flames changes to create a ‘black absolute presence’ behind the person's feet. The monolith is a permanent installation and even visitors without tickets to teamLab Planets can see it for free at the museum entrance.   Photo: teamLab, 'Universe of Fire Particles' © teamLab For those with a ticket, there are more fire to be found inside the museum as well. ‘Universe of Fire Particles’ is a new moving artwork – the brushstroke-like digital art looks similar to a phoenix being born, or a scene from the gates of hell, take your pick.  ‘Universe of Fir