Youka Nagase

The new year is here! If, like us, you're feeling very done with 2023, then kickstart 2024 with some of the best events happening in Tokyo. If you feel like doing something energetic, head to one of Tokyo's many ice-skating rinks, and then take in the twinkly festive illuminations around town. Whatever you do, don't let the Tokyo winter beat you.

Getting home on New Year's Eve in Tokyo could be tricky. The good news is, some train lines in Greater Tokyo usually add extra late-night services to their timetables in order to accommodate the hordes of revellers out in the metropolis. The bad news is, you'll have to be prepared to wait longer and to squeeze into over-crowded carriages. Now that you know, it's time to plan your 2024-25 New Year's Eve. Whether you're looking to visit shrines for the traditional new year prayers or take part in a spiritual bell-ringing ritual at a temple, here's how to get home safely.

If you're staying in Tokyo this Christmas and find yourself craving a traditional Christmas dinner, you're in luck. Christmas in Tokyo isn't all about KFC buckets – you can treat yourself to a special sit-down meal at some of Tokyo's most luxurious hotels and restaurants. With menus featuring premium steak, lobster, caviar and more, these sumptuous meals are a perfect Christmas present from you to you. Here are some of the places in Tokyo where you can enjoy an indulgent Christmas dinner. RECOMMENDED: The most beautiful Christmas trees in Tokyo 

We know Tokyo has some of the most spectacular illuminations, from the ever-popular Keyakizaka Illumination to the OTT illumination display at Yomiuri Land. But the rest of Japan is full of similarly bright ideas worth catching the shinkansen for. Ashikaga Flower Park in Tochigi displays five million lights shaped like flowers, while Mie prefecture boasts one of the largest illuminations in Japan. Read on for a list of the best illuminations in Japan. RECOMMENDED: Prefer to stay in the city? Explore these illuminations and light displays in Tokyo

Japan is home to some of the best theme parks in the world, a few of which are close enough to central Tokyo that you can make a day trip out of it. Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are popular among Tokyoites as it takes barely an hour to get there from the city centre. Even the amusement parks in neighbouring prefectures like Fuji-Q Highland are easy to get to, with multiple public transport options on offer. However, if you’re looking for something a little closer to home, there are several amusement parks just a few train stops away. Here are four within Tokyo that have everything from classic merry-go-rounds and Ferris wheels to thrilling roller coasters and haunted houses. Looking for something fun to do while hiding from the rain? These are Tokyo's top indoor theme parks.

Japan embraces Halloween like nowhere else, turning October into a month-long opportunity to feast on pumpkin treats and dress up like your favourite characters. Costume parties, parades and Halloween-themed afternoon teas are just some of the great ways to celebrate this holiday. You could also visit theme parks around Japan, most of which are putting on special decorations and events befitting the season of ghosts, ghouls and zombies. From Disneyland and Sanrio Puroland in Tokyo to Osaka’s Universal Studios Japan, here are the theme parks where you can get into the spooky spirit with Halloween-inspired treats, attractions and events this autumn. RECOMMENDED: 12 most beautiful autumn destinations in Japan

With everything you could ever want and more, it’s no wonder Shibuya is one of Tokyo’s busiest neighbourhoods. From trendy fashion boutiques and shopping malls to restaurants, cafés and bars, there’s something for everyone here in one of the city’s most visited tourist destinations. However, many of us often end up at the world-famous Shibuya Crossing with no particular place in mind when it comes to eating out.  Granted, the food and drink selection in Shibuya is overwhelming, with options covering a wide range of cuisines and even price points. Feeling lost? Don’t worry; we’ve done the legwork to find you the best cafés and restaurants in Shibuya, all within a 15-minute walk from Shibuya Scramble Crossing. Whether you’re craving burger, curry, ramen, sushi or teishoku meal, we’ve got you covered. RECOMMENDED: 12 best restaurants near Shinjuku Station

Japan is known for its kawaii culture, which is often associated with the country's countless cute characters and mascots, most notably Sanrio’s beloved Hello Kitty. Everyone is familiar with this adorable feline, known for her signature red bow on the left ear. You can find shops nationwide selling tote bags, stationery, homeware and cosmetics plastered with illustrations of Kitty. You can even enjoy Hello Kitty-shaped desserts and meals, too. There are also plenty of attractions around Japan where you can revel in all things Hello Kitty, including theme parks, resorts and hotel rooms decorated with colourful Kitty motifs. This year in 2024, as Hello Kitty is celebrating her 50th anniversary, there are a host of events, pop-ups and collaborations going on to commemorate the grand occasion.  Here are some places you can visit around Japan to enjoy a cutesy vacation with Japan’s favourite cat-girl. RECOMMENDED: Are you a Ghibli fan instead? Check out our Ghibli lover’s guide to Tokyo

With craft beer culture flourishing in Tokyo, there's never been a better time to acquaint yourself with domestic brews. Although excellent bottles from a wide range of breweries are readily available at specialist shops and even well-stocked supermarkets across town, artisanal beer is still best enjoyed straight from the keg and out in the open. On a warm, sunny day, there's nothing better than a cold pint with a view. So we've compiled this list of beer bars that boast excellent outdoor terraces for you to enjoy the warm weather along with your beer. Looking for more options? Check out the 32 best bars in Tokyo for cocktails, beer, gin, whiskies and more

As you can buy almost anything your heart desires online these days, shoppers often need an extra incentive to seek out a brick and mortar store to satisfy their shopping needs. That’s where concept stores come into play.  In a basic sense, these shops enhance the retail experience by adding a dash of culture, making them comprehensive spaces with their own flair and personality. Showcasing fascinating interiors and special features like in-house cafés, they’re a joy to browse and make your shopping experience all the more fun. Here we’ve rounded up some of the most distinctive conceptual stores in Tokyo offering special themes or lifestyles and a curated selection of products all entwined with the store’s core approach. RECOMMENDED: 20 stunning flagship stores in Tokyo

Shopping is definitely an exciting experience, especially when it doesn't bore a hole in your wallet. For that, all you need to do is make an easy day trip out to these outlet malls and discount stores near Tokyo – namely in Chiba, Saitama and Kanagawa. To help you out, we've collected the best outlet malls and shops where you can get the most bang for your buck. From discounted designer fashion – think of luxury brands such as Armani, Burberry, Coach, Gucci, Loewe and Seiko – to high-quality tableware and home décor, these shopping destinations have everything you're looking for with a price tag your bank account will thank you for. RECOMMENDED: 11 best department stores in Tokyo

Fireworks are an essential part of the summer festivities in Tokyo. All across the city, you can enjoy spectacular displays that light up Tokyo's warm summer nights, and that's not counting the other fireworks happening in nearby prefectures. In 2024, you can look forward to a particularly vibrant summer, as many of Tokyo's top fireworks festivals are confirmed to take place again this year. This includes the highly anticipated Sumida River Fireworks Festival (July 27) and the sensational Edogawa Fireworks Festival (August 24). As mentioned, there are more equally impressive fireworks just outside Tokyo in Chiba, Shizuoka and Yamanashi. So dust off your yukata, arrive early to secure the best viewing spot, and enjoy the colourful fireworks while snacking on some tasty festival grub. RECOMMENDED: Best observation decks in Tokyo for incredible views of the city skyline

With a total of ten ramen restaurants in Tokyo and a Michelin-starred outpost in San Francisco, ramen master Tomoharu Shono opened his newest location in the basement of Shibuya Parco. This modern ramen eatery doesn’t have a paper menu or ticket vending machine; instead, orders are placed through a tablet found at each seat.  The most popular dish may be the shoyu ramen, sporting a generous slab of beef and a perfect soft-boiled egg, but we can’t go past the dandan noodles. The creamy sesame broth is mixed with sansho pepper, giving the dish a numbing, spicy kick. Jikasei Mensho also offers a vegan version which is almost impossible to tell from the original. The noodles are made from quinoa, making them lower in carbohydrates and gluten while maintaining the signature chewy consistency.   All dishes are served in gigantic translucent cups which were made specially for serving Jisakei Mensho’s ramen. Roughly the size of a tall drinking glass, they fit perfectly in one hand, so you can easily finish every last drop of broth.

While spending the festive season at Christmas markets and illuminations is the go-to choice for most holiday revellers in Tokyo, Sanrio Puroland offers an alternative way to celebrate with a lengthy line-up of exclusive events and activities. © 2024 SANRIO CO., LTD. TOKYO, JAPAN The theme park turns into an illumination extravaganza until December 25. You’ll be feeling the holiday spirit immediately at the entrance, which is decorated with sparkling champagne gold illuminations and yellow poinsettias for the season. © 2024 SANRIO CO., LTD. TOKYO, JAPAN There’s also a designated photo spot featuring Hello Kitty and friends riding shooting stars. © 2024 SANRIO CO., LTD. TOKYO, JAPAN The main Christmas event is the 20-minute long 'Starry Starry Christmas Party' parade at Puro Village. Little Twin Stars Kiki and Lala, Hello Kitty, Cinnamoroll and the rest of the Puro friends will be dressed in star costumes and dancing along to festive music under synchronised illuminations. © 2024 SANRIO CO., LTD. TOKYO, JAPAN For an additional ¥1,300, you can immerse yourself in the world of Little Twin Stars Kiki and Lala at the 'Little Twin Stars Shooting Star Experience - Dream Nebula'. As the name suggests, the virtual reality immersive experience takes you on a journey to the stars with Kiki and Lala. Make sure you make a reservation in advance via Lawson Ticket (each session is limited to two guests). © 2024 SANRIO CO., LTD. TOKYO, JAPAN When holiday hunger strikes, head over t

Halloween festivities may have ended just a month ago at Tokyo Disney Resort, but the two theme parks in Tokyo are now fully immersed in the holiday spirit, which is happening now until December 25.  Photo: ©Disney Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea will have a 15 metre-tall Christmas tree each, all decked out with colourful ornaments and golden garlands. Along with the main tree at DisneySea which is set up at the American Waterfront area, you'll find another tree decorated with ornaments of Duffy and friends at Cape Cod. Photo: ©Disney Disneyland will run two parades as usual, one during the day and another after dark. The daytime Disney Christmas Stories parade will feature Christmas-themed floats carrying Mickey Mouse and his friends in cosy winter outfits. The evening Electrical Parade Dream Lights, on the other hand, will feature illuminations as well as a special Christmas medley. Photo: ©Disney At DisneySea, you can catch the Disney Christmas Greeting at the Mediterranean Harbor. Photo: ©Disney Don’t forget to enjoy all the Christmas meals and treats while you’re there. Until Christmas Day, you can try an omurice (omelette over rice) served with deep-fried shrimp and tomato cream sauce at Grandma Sara’s Kitchen, gratin bacon cheese hot dog at the Refreshment Corner, and a hot apple ginger drink at The Gazebo. Photo: ©Disney Keep an eye out for exclusive Christmas merchandise, which is now available online and in stores. You’ll find greeting cards, wreaths,

There are plenty of incredible illuminations and light displays in Tokyo during winter, a time of year when the city shines much brighter to compensate for the cold, short days and long nights. This year, Shibuya Sky is joining in the year-end trend with its own Christmas illuminations until December 25. Photo: Shibuya Scramble Square Co., Ltd. The Shibuya Sky observatory deck at Shibuya Scramble Square is celebrating the holiday season with its Sparkling View event. One of the most eye-catching elements is the Sparkling Balloon Corridor. An entire walkway at the Sky Gallery on the 46th floor is decked out with ‘mirror balloons’ of all sizes. This will surely add some extra sparkle to the spectacular views of the city.  Photo: Shibuya Scramble Square Go up to the rooftop Sky Stage and you’ll find a unique and rather surreal Christmas tree. Shibuya Sky’s 'holographic' tree is made up of light beams shining brightly into the night sky. Stick around for the special light and sound performance with bubbles. It comes on every 30 minutes from 7pm to 10pm. Photo: Shibuya Scramble Square Co., Ltd. Make sure you drop by the Paradise Lounge on the 46th floor for some festive drinks and desserts, available until Christmas Day. There’s a snow-inspired sparkling white wine (¥900), a Christmas parfait (¥1,200) and a marshmallow hot chocolate (¥880). Photo: Shibuya Scramble Square Co., Ltd. Entry to Shibuya Sky is ¥2,500 at the door (¥2,000 for high school and middle school student

We can't wait to visit some of Japan’s most beautiful autumn destinations this season and Kyoto is always high on our travel list. While the historical city is beautiful at any time of year, some of Kyoto’s temples will be lit up in the evening this autumn to add an extra touch of magic to the scenery. The illuminations take place at different times and dates for each venue. Here are all the participating temples and shrines, along with a rundown on what to expect at each spot. Photo: Narongsak Nagadhana/DreamstimeKyoto's Kiyomizudera temple in autumn Kiyomizu-dera Temple From November 18 to November 30, Kyoto's Kiyomizu-dera Temple will be hosting special nighttime visits, where the temple’s structures and surrounding foliage are illuminated for a mesmerising display. While Kiyomizu-dera usually closes at 6pm, it will extend its hours until 9.30pm (last entry 9pm). General admission is ¥500 for adults and ¥200 for junior high and elementary school students. Photo: Central Japan Railway CompanyToji Temple Toji Temple From October 26 to December 8, you can see the autumn leaves around Toji Temple lit up between 6pm and 9.30pm (last entry 9pm). Entry costs ¥1,000 (¥500 for middle school students and under). Photo: Central Japan Railway Company Byodoin Temple Byodoin Temple in Uji will be lit up from 6pm to 8.30pm for six days only: November 16, 17, 23, 24 and 30 as well as December 1. Entry costs ¥1,500 (high school students and under ¥1,000) and it’s limited to 1,500 peo

The first ever Pokémon manhole covers were installed in Kagoshima prefecture in 2018, and the project has now expanded to 37 prefectures (and counting) across Japan. These Pokemon manhole covers, also known as Poké Lids, are location specific, meaning each area has a unique set of Pokemon featured on the covers. While most of these Poke Lids were installed outside Tokyo, you can still find some in the city and nearby in Yokohama. Here’s where you can spot them all. Photo: Youka Nagase The only Poké Lids you’ll find in central Tokyo are at Ueno Park. There’s one with Wynaut and Tyrunt in front of The National Museum of Nature and Science, near the massive whale statue. Photo: Youka Nagase Walk towards the Tokyo National Museum and you’ll see another one with Baltoy and Bronzor. Photo: Youka Nagase The Pokémon manhole covers at Yokohama are dedicated to Pikachu, like this one outside Sakuragicho Station. You’ll see the yellow electric mouse featured together with his friends across Yokohama. Photo: Youka Nagase Just a five-minute walk away, Nippon Maru Memorial Park is home to a Poké Lid with Psyduck and Machop. Photo: Youka Nagase This one with Victini and Munchlax is at Yokohama Pukarisanbashi Pier. Photo: Youka Nagase There’s one with Pikachu and Raichu near the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse. Photo: Youka Nagase The one at the entrance of Yokohama Marine Tower features Pelipper. Photo: Youka Nagase Machida may seem a little too far for those in central Tokyo,

Living in Tokyo, we're lucky to have access to many beaches just outside the city, and there’s no better way to spend a summer weekend than basking in the sun by the sea. And in Japan, the best way to hit the beach in style is at an umi no ie (beach house). These often temporary surf-side hangouts are a highlight of the summer season, providing all the essentials you need to enjoy a day on the beach. You can get meals and cocktails, as well as rent your own deck chairs and parasols to upgrade your experience. Some beach houses are even equipped with luxurious lounges while others offer water activities. Here are our four picks of the best beach houses near Tokyo this summer. View this post on Instagram A post shared by SeasideLivingzushi (@seasidelivingzushi) Seaside Living Zushi This relaxing beach house in Zushi has a swanky bar serving refreshing cocktails all day long. Seaside Living’s menu is created by Cafe and Dining Sakae, which prides itself on using local produce sourced from Zushi and surrounding areas.  The Cuban sandwich (from ¥1,200) with smoked chicken and cheese is the most popular item to just grab and go, but the Hawaiian dishes like loco moco (¥1,500) and spam avocado bowl (¥1,300) are commendable, too. Pair your food with an ice-cold Zushi craft beer (¥900) or a housemade lemonade (¥700) and you’ll be happy as a clam.  If you’re here with a group of friends, it’s worth booking a barbecue set (from ¥3,900; for groups of at least four

There's no shortage of festivals to enjoy throughout the year in Japan. Summer is famous for its traditional festivals and fireworks displays, the cooler months are brought to life through colourful illuminations, while excellent art exhibitions take place year-round. One of the best places to get a taste of all these events is Osaka, where you can enjoy vibrant traditional festivals, incredible light-ups and many other unforgettable experiences. Here are some festivals you shouldn't miss while you're in Osaka this year.  Photo: Aizendo Shoman-in Temple Aizen Festival When: June 30-July 2, 2024Where: Aizen-do Shoman-in Temple The main highlight of Aizen-do Shoman-in’s namesake summer festival occurs on the first day, where eight women dressed in yukata are carried in their respective hoekago (literally means ‘treasure basket’) for a parade along Tanimachisugi street. These women, also known as Aizen Musume, were traditionally geisha back in the Edo period (1603-1867). Today, they consist of women selected by the organisers, and occasionally include local celebrities.  Photo: Osaka Tenmangu Shrine Tenjin Festival When: July 24-25, 2024Where: Temmangu Shrine This traditional festival is one of the biggest in Japan, dating back over 1,000 years. It takes place annually in July over two days, with the main events happening on the second day. The festivities culminate with a vibrant parade of mikoshi (portable shrines) carried by devotees in elaborate costumes. The procession

夏がもうじきということは、花火大会の季節はすぐそこ。人気の「隅田川花火大会」や「熱海海上花火大会」に加え、2024年は東京駅から電車と徒歩で約90分、千葉県佐倉市で開催される花火も楽しみだ。　 Photo: Sakura City 市制70周年を記念した「佐倉花火フェスタ」が2024年8月3日（土）、印旛沼湖畔で開催。「佐倉ふるさと広場」に隣接する印旛沼の夜空に約2万発もの花火が打ち上げられる。19時から手筒花火（有料観覧S会場のみ）、19時20分から20時30分まで、打ち上げを開始する。 Photo: Sakura City 近隣から無料で花火を見ることもできるが、絶景を眺めるなら有料席の購入を勧める。チケットは現在発売中で、5人までのマス席（1人4,000円、以下全て税込み、5枚単位で販売）と指定席（2,000円）のみ残っている。気になる人は早めに購入しよう。 会場の佐倉ふるさと広場付近は、京成臼井駅から徒歩30分ほど。東京駅から京成臼井駅までは、JR総武線で船橋まで行き、京成本線に乗り換えて約1時間だ。イベントの詳細は公式ウェブサイトをチェックしてほしい。圧巻の花火を見に行こう。 関連記事 『梅雨を彩る和傘とアジサイの特別演出が「アートアクアリウム銀座」で開催』 『和歌や「源氏物語」「竹取物語」など古典の名作を描いたやまと絵の世界を六本木で』 『人生を「書」に捧げる石川九楊、待望の大規模個展がいよいよ開幕』 『世界の豪華列車「オリエント急行」を貸し切ったディナープランが箱根で開催』 『横浜のぷかりさん橋に海風や波の音を感じるレコードカフェ＆バーが登場』 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

Summer is fast approaching, which means it’s nearly fireworks festival season. In addition to the ever-popular Sumida River and Atami seaside resort displays, this year we can also look forward to a spectacular fireworks show in Sakura, Chiba prefecture, just 90 minutes from Tokyo. Photo: Sakura City The Sakura Citizen Fireworks Festival takes place once again this summer at Lake Inba-numa on Saturday August 3, marking the 70th anniversary of the city's founding. You'll be able to see a staggering 20,000 shells of fireworks launched into the night sky above the lake next to Sakura Furusato Square. The event starts at 7pm with handheld tezutsu hanabi sparklers before the main fireworks show kicks off at 7.20pm and runs until 8.30pm. Photo: Sakura City It’s possible to watch the fireworks for free from nearby areas, but we recommend buying tickets to get the best views. Reserved seating up close is ¥2,000 per person. Table seating for two people starts from ¥12,000, and there are also box seats that can fit up to four people from ¥20,000. Ticket sales is now open.  The event will be held near Sakura Furusato Square, which is around a 30-minute walk from Keisei-Usui Station. It takes about one hour to reach Keisei-Usui Station from Tokyo Station: take the JR Sobu line to Funabashi and then switch to the Keisei Main line. Visit the Sakura city website for more information. This article was published on May 19 2023 and updated on June 6 2024. More from Time Out Tokyo Kyoto no

Hot springs are popular year-round in Japan and you’ll find locals travelling to various onsen destinations across the country for a spot of holistic pampering while escaping the hectic city life. One of Hokkaido’s three major hot spring hubs, Yunokawa hot springs in Hakodate has a new hotel with an infinity onsen on the rooftop overlooking the Tsugaru Straits. Feast your eyes on the view. Photo: Hewitt Resort Hakodate Hewitt Resort, a popular hotel in Okinawa known for its infinity pool with panoramic views, opened a second location in southern Hokkaido in 2021. Instead of a pool, Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen Umi to Akari has an infinity onsen on the 12th floor facing Honshu, Japan’s biggest island, where you can enjoy different scenery depending on the time of day. As these pictures show, it's stunning at all hours, but we think the view is most spectacular come nighttime, with the tiny lights from fishing boats and the moon reflected on the water. Photo: Hewitt Resort Hakodate For the freezing winter months, the resort also has an indoor onsen with tatami floors. Photo: Hewitt Resort Hakodate There are 221 guest rooms that can each accommodate up to four people. Guests also have access to the Japanese garden, which is lit with a bonfire in the evening, where you can snack on complimentary amazake and dango. Photo: Hewitt Resort Hakodate The buffet restaurant on the second floor, Tsukifune, is worth visiting for its sumptuous dinner serving 150 dishes championing loca

Children’s Day on May 5 is the final public holiday that make up Japan’s Golden Week. Usually, the celebration is marked by setting up colourful koinobori (carp streamers) outdoors, but KFC Japan is honouring the national holiday a little differently – by dressing its Colonel Sanders statues in handmade armour. This annual tradition has been going on since 1984 and the employees at each store come up with their own design, making them from scratch using paper craft.  Photo: Japan Kentucky Fried Chicken Co., Ltd. 2024 also marks the 40th anniversary of this special KFC tradition. In celebration, 892 KFC outlets in Japan will each doll up a Samurai Sanders this year – the most outlets ever to participate in this annual tradition. Judging from what we saw in previous years, the designs will be impressive. The KFC Samurai Sanders are on display only until May 6. If you happen to spot one and post a photo on X (Twitter) between May 1 and May 5, you'll be eligible to win one of 40 KFC gift cards worth ¥4,000. Just make sure you're also following the official KFC Japan account. A total of 128 KFC outlets in Tokyo are participating this year. They includes the stores in Ebisu Ekimae, Shinjuku West Exit, Takadanobaba, Omotesando/Kita-Aoyama, Ikebukuro West Exit, Nakano Ekimae, Kichijoji South Exit and Ginza INZ.  For more information, visit the website. This article was published on April 28 2021 and updated on May 1 2024. More from Time Out Tokyo Kawaguchiko is blocking the Mt Fu

There is just so much to do in Tokyo, especially if you're interested in the city's vibrant arts and culture scene. To help you make the most of your time and budget in this great city, Tokyo now has a money-saving pass that gets you unlimited rides on the Tokyo Metro for two whole days, plus access to all the best museums and galleries in Tokyo. Photo: Tokyo Metro The Metro and Grutto pass by Tokyo Metro includes two 24-hour unlimited metro passes, plus a Grutto ticket (available as a QR-code e-ticket or physical card) for discounted – and sometimes free – admission to over 100 museums, galleries and attractions within Tokyo. That means you’ll have two whole days to explore the city and visit venues including the National Museum of Nature and Science, The National Art Center, Tokyo Sea Life Park, Tokyo City View, Sumida Hokusai Museum and Rikugien with minimal, if any, additional cost. Do note that while the offer is available for sale until January 31 2025, the Grutto Pass is only valid for two months after activation. Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaThe National Art Center, Tokyo The deal, priced at ¥3,130, saves you ¥570 compared to buying the two metro passes and the Grutto ticket individually. The Metro and Grutto pass is available together as a set at Tokyo Metro ticket offices and the Tokyo Metro Museum. Be sure to get in quick, though – there are only 7,000 of these passes available.  Photo: Kuremo/DreamstimeRikugien Garden Alternatively, you can purchase the Grutto pass