Kaila is one of the English editors at Time Out Tokyo. She dreams of sample sales, uni and is always on the hunt for the best kakigori shaved ice. 

Kaila Imada

Kaila Imada

Digital Editor, Time Out Tokyo

Articles (398)

秋に旅すべき美しい紅葉スポット8選

秋に旅すべき美しい紅葉スポット8選

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』
東京、ベスト紅葉スポット14選

東京、ベスト紅葉スポット14選

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』
20 best things to do in Koenji: restaurants, cafés, coffee, shops and more

20 best things to do in Koenji: restaurants, cafés, coffee, shops and more

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
16 best indoor things to do in Tokyo this rainy season

16 best indoor things to do in Tokyo this rainy season

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
Tokyo souvenirs: 14 best products that are made in or inspired by Tokyo

Tokyo souvenirs: 14 best products that are made in or inspired by 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
The best eyewear shops in Tokyo

The best eyewear shops in Tokyo

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.
12 best Japanese skincare products you can buy from a drugstore

12 best Japanese skincare products you can buy from a drugstore

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
How to navigate your way through Don Quijote

How to navigate your way through Don Quijote

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
11 best department stores in Tokyo

11 best department stores in Tokyo

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

7 best Japanese sunscreens you can get at the drugstore

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

7 best Japanese products you need to stay cool this summer

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

7 best camera and photography shops in Tokyo

Tokyo is one photogenic city, and you’d want a proper camera to capture the best moments. Thankfully, the city is chock-full of amazing electronics and camera stores, where you can score a bargain on used equipment or splurge on the latest model. If you’re hoping to save, we highly recommend browsing the second-hand selection at many of Tokyo’s camera shops. Like most preloved items in Japan, second-hand cameras and equipment usually remain in great condition, and you can get them at a decent marked-down price.  Don’t feel intimidated when you walk into these camera stores; there are options for both casual and professional shutterbugs. Plus, your choices in Tokyo are endless as Japan is home to some of the world’s most renowned camera brands including Nikon, Canon, Fujifilm, Ricoh and Panasonic.  To help you find your ideal camera and photography accessories, here are a few of our favourite new and used camera shops.  RECOMMENDED: The best flagship stores in Tokyo

Listings and reviews (19)

Keiichi Tanaami - ‘Do Not Bomb’

Keiichi Tanaami - ‘Do Not Bomb’

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.
Noda Horo

Noda Horo

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
Smash Things

Smash Things

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. 
Tokyo Confidential

Tokyo Confidential

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
Mixology Salon

Mixology Salon

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

Terunari

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,
Kudan Otsuka

Kudan Otsuka

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.
Negima

Negima

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
Gentle Monster

Gentle Monster

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. 
Agnès b. Rue du Jour

Agnès b. Rue du Jour

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. 
Adidas Sport Performance Flagship Store

Adidas Sport Performance Flagship Store

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.

News (1307)

2 Tokyo pizzerias have made the 50 Top Pizza World list for 2026

2 Tokyo pizzerias have made the 50 Top Pizza World list for 2026

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
Long layover? Explore Narita on a free sightseeing tour

Long layover? Explore Narita on a free sightseeing tour

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
A giant Poké Ball hotel is opening in the forests of Hokkaido this September

A giant Poké Ball hotel is opening in the forests of Hokkaido this September

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
Nanzuka’s new flagship gallery is now open in Shibuya and celebrates Keiichi Tanaami with a major exhibition

Nanzuka’s new flagship gallery is now open in Shibuya and celebrates Keiichi Tanaami with a major exhibition

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’,
Tokyo’s latest must-book pizza spot just opened at The Bulgari Bar

Tokyo’s latest must-book pizza spot just opened at The Bulgari Bar

Tokyo’s hottest new pizza spot is finally here, and you’ll find it at The Bulgari Bar at Bulgari Hotel Tokyo. Officially launched on September 5, Pizza Bar – Pier Daniele Seu is a pizza experience that has previously been offered at other Bulgari hotels, including in Rome and Dubai, and has now arrived in the capital. It features eight special pizzas developed in collaboration with acclaimed pizzaiolo Pier Daniele Seu, alongside curated cocktail pairings and wines. Photo: Bulgari Hotel TokyoPier Daniele Seu Hailing from Rome, Pier Daniele Seu is considered one of the chefs at the forefront of today’s gourmet pizza scene and has been collaborating with Bulgari Hotels & Resorts since 2020. Il Caffè at Bulgari Resort Dubai, which features a menu by Seu Pizza Illuminati, ranked 14th in the 50 Top Pizza Asia-Pacific 2025 list. Photo: Bulgari Hotel TokyoPier Daniele Seu Beyond his work with Bulgari, Seu runs his own restaurant in Rome, Seu Pizza Illuminati, and was named the world’s Best Pizza Chef in 2019 by 50 Top Pizza. The restaurant ranked second in Italy in the 50 Top Pizza Italia 2026 list and sixth globally in the 50 Top Pizza World 2025 list. Additionally, Seu’s eggplant-based pizza, Variazione di Melanzane, was named Pizza of the Year 2026 – and can now be enjoyed here in Tokyo.  Photo: Bulgari Hotel TokyoPizza Bar – Pier Daniele Seu At the heart of Seu’s pizza creations is his signature 70-percent hydration dough, made with a mix of type 0 and 1 flours and left to
McDonald's Japan is offering cute Pokémon toys in Happy Meals

McDonald's Japan is offering cute Pokémon toys in Happy Meals

Summer in Japan is a lively, exciting season filled with festivals, fireworks and traditional celebrations. McDonald’s Japan is capitalising on this special time by releasing a series of adorable, festival-themed Pokémon toys in its Happy Meals this August.  There are a total of eight toys. They will be released in three stages, with the first four toys available from August 11 to 17. Photo: McDonald's Japan The first drop of the Pokémon Natsumatsuri Happy Set offers a Pikachu taiko drum, a Poké Ball chochin lantern that can light up, as well as fishing and ring toss games. Photo: McDonald's Japan The second drop, which runs from August 18 to 24, includes a Pikachu target shooting set, a Pikachu uchiwa fan, a pinball console and a disc-fishing game. In case you miss the first two drops, you’ll have another opportunity to get any of the eight toys mentioned above in your Happy Meal from August 25.  You can check out the video above to see how to play with each of the mini Pokémon toys. For more Pokémon fun in Japan, check out the festivities happening in Yokohama this month: the Pokémon World Championships, Pokémon art events and the 2023 Pokémon Worlds Celebration. More from Time Out Tokyo 4 new Japanese shows and movies to watch on Netflix in August 2023 A massive Pokémon art event has taken over Yokohama this summer Muji opens its first Muji Base Airbnb guest house in Japan Japan to consider revising tax-free shopping rules to curb abuse Le
池尻大橋の元ガソリンスタンドがカルチャースペース「Ikejiri SS」に

池尻大橋の元ガソリンスタンドがカルチャースペース「Ikejiri SS」に

古い建物が取り壊され、新しく洗練された建物へと姿を変えていく東京。そんな中、その場所が持つ個性を残しながら、人々が集う場となっている空間に出会うと新鮮に感じる。 その一つが、池尻大橋駅近くにある「Ikejiri SS」だ。かつてガソリンスタンドだった建物を活用したこのユニークな空間は、来年秋から冬にかけて、ホテル「The (Apartment) Hotel」とデリ&バー「Provisionary」へと生まれ変わる予定。それまでの期間、渋谷から1駅という立地を生かし、9月にさまざまな催しを展開している。 Photo: Ikejiri SSIkejiri Wart Fair 最初のイベントは8月29日・30日に開催された、ワインとアート、フード、音楽を楽しめる「Ikejiri Wart Fair」。「Uguisu」「Sabasu」「coicoi」「Massif」など東京の人気店がフードやドリンクを提供した。また、原宿のアートギャラリー「Scooters For Peace」がキュレーションを手がけ、アメリカ人アーティスト、バリー・マッギー(Barry McGee)の作品を元ガソリンスタンド内に展示した。 Photo: Max HoutzagerIkejiri Wart Fair 9月5日には蓮沼執太が出演する音楽イベント、6日には映画イベントを行った。今後も、ホテルとデリ&バーの建設が始まる前に、無料イベントを予定している。 9月12日(土)は、雑貨やワイン、新鮮な野菜を販売する「Late Summer Market」を開催する。最新情報は公式Instagramで確認してほしい。 関連記事 『新設リスニングルームを完備した「Analog Market」が亀有SKACで初開催』 『SKWAT KAMEARI ART CENTREでしかできない4のこと』 『最もよく眠れた人に222万円、「マットレース by Koala」が開催』 『東京国立近代美術館で「ぬいぐるみお泊り会」が開催へ』 『ロンドン発の音楽ディスカバリープラットフォーム「ROVR」が日本初イベントを無料開催』 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
Negroni Week is returning to Tokyo this September

Negroni Week is returning to Tokyo this September

Get ready to drink for a good cause as Negroni Week returns to Tokyo over Silver Week, running from September 21 to 27. The global event, brought together by Campari and Imbibe magazine, connects around 14,000 bars and restaurants around the world through this classic cocktail. Participating venues will serve up their own unique versions of the Negroni, with a portion of the proceeds going towards initiatives that aim to create a fairer, more sustainable and diverse food and drink industry. In Tokyo, Campari is teaming up with shochu brand Iichiko Saiten, giving the Italian concoction a distinctly Japanese twist. Photo: Campari JapanNegroni Week 2026 Ahead of Negroni Week, a special pop-up event will be held at Bar Tram in Ebisu from September 7 to 9, bringing together renowned bartenders from across Japan for three nights of Negroni creations.  On September 7, the line-up will feature Yuya Takahashi from The Kahala Hotel & Resort and Hiroyuki Yamada from Bee’s Knees in Kyoto. September 8 will see Shinya Koba of Kumamoto’s Yakoboku and Campari brand ambassador Naoto Ogawa behind the bar, while the final night on September 9 will feature Ruka Hattori from The SG Club and Makiko Ohtsu from Bar Sebek in Fukuoka. Photo: Campari JapanRosso Blu Each day will feature original cocktails from the guest bartenders, drinks from Bar Trench, and special Negronis including last year’s popular Koji Negroni shaken up with Iichiko Saiten’s Barley Shochu, and Rosso Blu, a low-ABV cocktail
A Mexican pop-up restaurant has landed at Bees Bar by Narisawa

A Mexican pop-up restaurant has landed at Bees Bar by Narisawa

Tokyo is home to some pretty great Mexican restaurants, but we’re always happy to see something new arrive in the capital. From now through the end of October, Bees Bar by Narisawa in Aoyama has transformed into an authentic Mexican cantina as part of a collaboration with restaurateur Edo López of Edo Kobayashi Hospitality. Through this exciting pop-up, guests can experience Chef Yoshihiro Narisawa’s casual bar space while enjoying authentic Mexican fare and bar culture, alongside original cocktails crafted with spirits from Mexico. Photo: The FoundryChef Yoshihiro Narisawa (left), Edo López (right) Chef Narisawa has long been fascinated by Latin American bar culture, drawing inspiration from the hospitality and craftsmanship he encountered during his travels. His love for tequila led him to build one of Japan’s largest private collections, which helped inspire Bees Bar. This autumn pop-up is a collaboration with Edo Kobayashi Hospitality, a group connecting Japanese and Mexican cultures through its restaurants, bars and hotels on three continents. Created under the supervision of Chef Narisawa, the menu showcases premium seasonal ingredients sourced from producers across Japan. It features Mexican classics including tacos, tostadas and ceviche, made with high-quality seafood, meat and fresh vegetables. Photo: The FoundryResidencia Mexicana en Tokio Highlights include tostadas topped with akami tuna from Yamayuki and guacamole, tacos filled with tender Kobe beef, and main
Here's the first official 2026 forecast for autumn leaves in Japan

Here's the first official 2026 forecast for autumn leaves in Japan

It may still be warm and humid in Tokyo, but autumn is already on the horizon. In just a few months, Japan will be transformed into a sea of fiery red maples and golden-yellow ginkgo trees – making koyo one of the most spectacular times of year to explore the country.  If you’re hoping to plan your trip around the season, you’re in luck. On September 2, the Japan Meteorological Corporation released its first official forecast detailing expected dates for two of the most popular types of koyo: red momiji maple and yellow ginkgo leaves. Here’s a closer look at this year’s forecast. Photo: Japan Meteorological Corporation2026 autumn leaves forecast Red momiji leaves forecast According to this year’s forecast, Hokkaido will be the first to see the brilliant momiji leaves, with Sapporo projected to turn red around November 7 – about 11 days later than the seasonal average. Further south, Kanazawa is expected to see its leaves turn red by November 30, Nagano by November 21, and Nagoya by December 2.  In Tokyo, the leaves are expected to turn by November 29, right on track with the seasonal average. In Osaka, the leaves are forecast to turn by December 4, followed by Kyoto on December 11. For Fukuoka, leaves are expected to turn by December 7, Hiroshima by November 28 and Kagoshima by December 10. Photo: Japan Meteorological Corporation2026 autumn leaves forecast Yellow ginkgo leaves forecast Ginkgo trees tend to be more sensitive to temperatures and often reach their peak befor
This hotel just south of Tokyo is offering a special stay in Marilyn Monroe’s room for its 90th anniversary

This hotel just south of Tokyo is offering a special stay in Marilyn Monroe’s room for its 90th anniversary

To commemorate its 90th anniversary and the 100th anniversary of Marilyn Monroe’s birth, Kawana Hotel in Ito, Shizuoka prefecture, is offering a special accommodation plan, the ‘Marilyn Monroe Tribute Stay: A Kawana Holiday Following in Marilyn’s Footsteps’, until March 31 2028.  画像提供:株式会社西武・プリンスホテルズワールドワイドジョー・ディマジオとマリリン・モンロー夫妻 This is your chance to relive a little of the Hollywood star’s time in Japan, following in her footsteps from her 1954 honeymoon at the hotel with MLB star Joe DiMaggio. You’ll stay in Room 316 of the main building – the exact same room where the couple stayed – which has been given a few new touches, including Marilyn Monroe-themed paintings, books about the actress, and a record player with a selection of records. The room retains its elegant atmosphere while offering gorgeous views over the nearby sea. 画像提供:株式会社西武・プリンスホテルズワールドワイドディナーコース During the stay, guests will be treated to a multicourse dinner featuring the omelette rice that Marilyn reportedly ordered through late-night room service two nights in a row during her stay. 画像提供:株式会社西武・プリンスホテルズワールドワイドマリリンが愛したシャンパン「PIPER-HEIDSIECK」のマリリン生誕100周年記念数量限定モデル If you opt for the premium plan, you’ll also receive a limited-edition bottle of Piper-Heidsieck, one of the champagnes favoured by the actress, along with a limited-edition Marilyn Monroe mug, available while supplies last. 画像提供:株式会社西武・プリンスホテルズワールドワイド「マリリン・モンロー トリビュートステイ~マリリンの足跡をたどる川奈の休日~」 Rates start from ¥66,400 per person for the standard
This former gas station in Ikejiri-Ohashi is now a hub for art, food and music

This former gas station in Ikejiri-Ohashi is now a hub for art, food and music

As so many of Tokyo’s old buildings are torn down to make way for something new and shiny, it’s refreshing to come across a space that embraces its character while bringing the community together. One such unique spot is Ikejiri SS, which occupies a former gas station just outside Ikejiri-Ohashi Station. Set to soon evolve into a hotel, deli and bar, it’s currently making the most of its prime location in this trendy neighbourhood, just one stop from Shibuya, with a series of events throughout September. Photo: Max HoutzagerIkejiri Wart Fair The first round of events took place over the August 29-30 weekend, with the Ikejiri Wart Fair – an exciting celebration of wine and art, alongside great food and music. Food and drinks were provided by popular Tokyo hotspots including Uguisu, Sabasu, Coicoi and Massif, while artwork by American artist Barry McGee was curated inside the former gas station by Harajuku art gallery Scooters For Peace. Photo: Max HoutzagerIkejiri Wart Fair The community space will host free events over the next two weekends before construction begins on the upcoming SS hotel and Provisionary deli and bar, which is slated to open next autumn or winter. Highlights include a music night on September 5 featuring Shuta Hasunuma (6pm-7pm), followed by a film night on September 6 (6pm-10pm). Throughout the weekend, a coffee truck from Overview Coffee will also be serving up brews, snacks, ice cream and more.  Lastly, the space will host a Late Summer Market on S