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Japan Times
10 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Japan Times
At Tokyo Pride's first queer art exhibition, intimacy and resistance share the wall
On the third floor of Tokyu Plaza Harajuku's Harakado space, the inaugural Queer Art Exhibition — one of the main events of Tokyo Pride 2025 — unfurls as both celebration and reflection. With 36 works by 30 LGBTQ+ and allied artists, the show presents a broad spectrum of media: painting, photography, illustration, mixed media — and an equally wide spectrum of voices. The result is less a tightly curated gallery show than a spirited, grassroots salon: uneven, but moving. The range of artistic quality is as wide as the range of mediums, and that goes for the messaging as well. While some pieces are fairly predictable — rainbow flags in various settings (one work is simply a painted flag) — others are intricate, formally sophisticated art objects. These standout pieces offer layered social commentary on what it means to live as an LGBTQ+ individual in Japan today, while also showcasing the technical and conceptual ingenuity of their creators. Organized through an open-call submission process, the exhibition is crowdsourced in the best sense, shaped by community rather than institution. That openness extends to the structure: visitors are invited to vote for the Tokyo Rainbow Pride Award, a ¥100,000 prize granted by public decision. Donations and artwork sales go directly to the artists themselves. In its structure and spirit, this is a show designed not just to exhibit queer art but to empower queer artists. 'Ordinary' by moriuo | ©TOKYO PRIDE 2025 Among the more resonant pieces is 'Ordinary' by moriuo, a painting drawing lightly on comic-book style, depicting a young male couple hand-in-hand by the ocean as a train passes in the background — perhaps in Kamakura. The image is seen through the eyes of an older gay man, who never had the freedom to express love so openly. 'I wish you could see this view ... this time that has finally come,' reads the artist's quietly devastating caption. It's a moment of tenderness across generations — a reckoning with what was once impossible. Noumra's 'In My Closet' turns introspection into visual poetry. A large, cutout panel painted in exquisite detail, it features the face of a bearded man surrounded by a wreath of flowers, foliage and a fox-like creature whispering into his ear. The face is serene. Here, the 'closet' is not a site of repression but a blooming inner landscape — a place where identity takes root. Noumra rejects outward signifiers of queerness and instead renders the closet as a space of psychological richness, where pride grows inside before reaching the surface. 'わたしたちの生活' ('Watashi-tachi no Seikatsu,' 'Our Lives') by Moe Kano | ©TOKYO PRIDE 2025 Moe Kano's photographic collage 'わたしたちの生活' ('Watashi-tachi no Seikatsu,' 'Our Lives') also echoes a commitment to pride via smaller gestures. A collection of slice-of-life, candid domestic moments shared with her partner — boxed lunches packed, rooms lived in, messes left uncleaned — it resists spectacle in favor of truth. 'We argue. We disagree. Sometimes we're broke,' she writes. 'But we're together.' The work gently insists that queer love doesn't need to be extraordinary to be valid. Then there are pieces that pierce more directly. Kazutaka Nagashima's '玫瑰少年' ('Meigui Shonan,' 'Rose Boy'), a gorgeous woodblock print, memorializes Yeh Yung-chih, a Taiwanese queer teenager who died as a result of bullying. Nagashima merges a rose tattoo motif with printmaking in an aching tribute. 'I could have ended up like him,' he confesses, reminding us survival can be political. '玫瑰少年' ('Meigui Shonan,' 'Rose Boy') by Kazutaka Nagashima | ©TOKYO PRIDE 2025 Natsuki Yoshida's trio of partially monochrome paintings — rooted in manga — traces lesbian romance with emotional clarity and quiet intensity. Through tender embraces, haunted gazes, and symbols like smoke and floating neck halos, these works capture the intimacy between young women, and also the beauty, hesitation and ache of desire in a world still learning how to hold it. Otokokokoto's '屁' ('He,' 'Fart') is a playful standout, a mixed-media depiction of a man in a public bath. Both irreverent and strangely tender, the work turns bodily humor into a bold artistic gesture. Queer art, it turns out, can embrace absurdity and the delightfully unserious. Taken together, these works form a constellation of perspectives — some polished, some raw, all urgent in their own way. And in this mix lies the true strength of the exhibition. Because it is crowdfunded and community-sourced, the show makes no claim to curatorial perfection. But it does succeed, powerfully, in reflecting a grassroots artistic community in all its heartfelt and irreducible complexity. The overall message is one of unity and inclusion: Everyone is welcome. The Queer Art Exhibition at Tokyu Plaza Harajuku's Harakado, runs through June 18. For more information, visit
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Travel + Leisure
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Travel + Leisure
After Visiting Tokyo, These 16 Japan Fashion Styles Have Made a Huge Difference in My Wardrobe—From $4
As a travel content creator, I've had the privilege of visiting many beautiful countries over the past few years. One that's always been high on my bucket list is Japan, and I was finally able to visit the amazing country this past March. During my week-long journey through Tokyo and Kyoto, I became quite inspired by the culture, food, and most notably the styles I observed in the two cities. It became instantly clear that these Japanese fashion trends would make for the perfect capsule wardrobe (you know, a minimalist wardrobe pared down to a few select, basic pieces you can wear with anything, usually neutral and of high quality, so they last a long time). From your classic cool-girl sneakers to the perfect oversized blazer and leather crossbody bag, I've rounded up my favorite versatile, classic looks inspired by the local-approved looks I saw strolling through the vintage shops in Harajuku, admiring cherry blossoms in Kyoto, and getting lost in the Shibuya crossing shuffle. Travel + Leisure / Riana Singh I observed the trend time and again in Japan: an oversized button-up shirt paired with a blazer, trench coat, or even simply by itself, depending on weather conditions. And of course, a lightweight oversized button-up shirt is arguably one of the most versatile base pieces you can have in your capsule wardrobe. Whether you add layers to this piece or wear it with a pair of shorts, you'll find that this item will add a level of comfort and sophistication to your look. I love that this Madewell poplin shirt is crisp and strong, yet also delicate, which really embodies the fluidity that is present in Japanese style. When going for a more relaxed, timeless vibe, I love adding a pop of color in my bag or sneakers to tie everything together. Does anyone else remember the scene from Crazy, Stupid, Love when Ryan Gosling's character threw Steve Carell's character's New Balance sneakers away and then proceeded to take him shopping? Well, clearly Steve Carell's character was actually ahead of the time, because everyone was rocking dad sneakers in Japan. I personally love the 2002R styles, and they are super walkable shoes, which make for a perfect addition when traveling abroad. The impact-resistant cushioning will keep your feet supported all day as you're on the go in Japan, making them the perfect accompaniment for your capsule wardrobe. Travel + Leisure / Riana Singh If you have this Uniqlo bag, then you totally get the hype. As someone who has this bag in three colors, I can't emphasize enough how perfect this shoulder bag is for traveling. I found it was very common in Japan to see a variety of shoulder bags/fanny packs, and this one is especially popular given how prevalent Uniqlo is throughout Japan—it is its birthplace, after all! T he bag has convenient inner pockets with plenty of storage, and its water-repellent finish will ensure that all of your items inside stay safe during those one-off rainstorms. Given the affordability of this product, I highly recommend getting creative with a few colors that you can mix and match to your outfits while traveling. When I think of my favorite iconic Japanese looks, I instantly think of oversized linen dresses. Add a cute pair of sneakers or kitten heels, and you can basically wear a version of this look all spring and summer, making this shirtdress a perfect capsule wardrobe staple. I'd opt for a shirtdress with no prints to ensure that your linen investment pieces stand the test of time and can carry you through season after season. Onitsuka Tiger is a Japanese fashion brand that started in 1949, and since then has become known to blend Japanese heritage with a modern feel. My favorite silhouette has to be the Serrano slip-ons, which are perfect for adding a touch of Japanese style to any look. I loved observing locals rocking a wide variety of colorways, but I find the classic black and white to be the perfect addition to your shoe rotation. Travel + Leisure / Riana Singh I've tried to adopt the ethos of balancing simplicity with practicality, which is a common theme I picked up from Japanese style. One piece in a capsule wardrobe, in particular, that I believe should follow this same spirit is a really solid pair of sunglasses. One that balances a unique vibe with good UV protection. I love Ganni, the Danish contemporary ready-to-wear fashion brand, but you can get this solid lookalike for a more affordable price at Amazon. Overall, I love the boldness of this shape, and given its strong rectangular base, these sunglasses are the only pair you'll need. It wasn't until I was sitting on the Tokyo metro and I snapped a picture of a guy wearing really cool New Balance shoes with ribbed socks that I realized how important it is to have a great pair of socks to elevate any shoefie (a shoe selfie). I found this pair from Uniqlo, and I have now purchased them in so many colors because they truly are the perfect pair of socks. The fit is comfortable without being too tight, ensuring that they don't slip, while also providing a nice length for cropped pants where you don't want your leg visible during colder months. I'd recommend bulk buying in a few different colors to coordinate with any outfit. A basic T-shirt is the foundational building block of every travel wardrobe, and this coveted street-ready style is from Japanese brand Comme des Garçons. The classic silhouette ensures you can layer this with your other capsule wardrobe classics, and the red heart gives a hint of personality. If you like the brand, you'll definitely want to check out their Comme des Garçons Converse, too. Travel + Leisure / Riana Singh I purchased my first JW Pei bag last summer, and I was pleasantly surprised at how great the quality is, especially for the price point. While the goal of building a capsule wardrobe is to ensure you're buying fewer products that last a really long time, my experience with JW Pei is that it's totally worth the price point, and the bag serves as a durable piece to add to your rotation. I love a classic vegan leather black crossbody, and the fact that you can wear this during the day and night is perfect when traveling and ensuring that one product gets as much use as possible. I loved spotting locals in Japan wearing both fitted and oversized vests with their looks for a touch of a preppy vibe in an otherwise more minimal, masculine look. To achieve that look, make sure your capsule wardrobe has a solid, multifunctional layer like the Madewell crochet vest tank that can be worn on top of a cute boxy T-shirt, and also by itself. A classic vest like this is a perfect quality piece because it adds a touch of sophistication that can make the most basic outfit look put together. When traveling to Japan, I convinced myself that there was a need for only one pair of jeans, and this barrel style from Everlane was that perfect pair. These jeans have a relaxed fit and are mid-rise, which is perfect for my gals who want something to sit right in the middle waist. I also love the darker color, because it can be dressed up for nighttime occasions with a black blazer and chic blouse. I noticed a common theme in Japan is to embrace darker colors and baggier silhouettes, and I'm a huge fan of the quality, cut, and color of these Everlane jeans. You can't go wrong with investing in a classic box-cut tee. I love that this silhouette sits right around the hip, making it perfect for both tucking in and wearing solo. The classic crewneck and pocket detail of this 100 percent organic cotton tee from Everlane is a great lightweight basic to include as a wardrobe staple. I personally love how Japanese style can really dress up something as simple as a white tee, and by throwing on top any of the jackets or layers mentioned above, you can take this basic staple into a stylish and effortless Japanese-inspired look. During my morning commute to get coffee, I noticed many women (of all ages) on their way to work rocking a variety of kitten heels. When you're bopping around a city as busy as Tokyo, you have to ensure that your heels will keep you on the go all day. I am obsessed with a cute but functional, slingback pump, and this heel comes in at just under 2.5 inches, making for a perfect accessory. When packing light and sticking with a capsule wardrobe, you want to ensure that you get as much use as possible from your items, and I love that these Sam Edelman Bianka Slingback Pumps can be dressed down or dressed up depending on your vibe. Travel + Leisure / Riana Singh Can you really build a capsule wardrobe without having a trench coat? I'd argue that the answer is no. I was absolutely blown away to see that what felt like every third person in Tokyo was wearing a trench coat, and the styles and colors really did run the gamut. While I am biased toward a classic khaki trench coat, I did notice a wide variety of colors in Japan. Having visited in March, I loved that I could wear my trench coat from day to night, but it's so genius because it's great for any season, even summer, since you can dress it up or down. Can we all agree that a solid oversized blazer has to be the MVP of a capsule wardrobe? Whether you're wearing it in the office or strolling through Shibuya City, this boxy yet structured blazer is perfect for dressing up any casual jeans and sneakers outfit combo. Once you get a blazer you love, you'll be sure to have this piece included weekly in your outfit rotation! Plus, it nails that slightly businessy look that is so prevalent in Tokyo street style. If you want to build a chic and versatile capsule wardrobe, with hints of inspiration from Japanese street style, a classic bomber jacket will enable you to embody that edgy Tokyo Drift vibe. I love how lightweight this Zeagoo Bomber Jacket is; it won't feel overwhelmingly bulky when you're packing it in your suitcase. The combo of the neutral color with the satin finish makes for a perfect streetwear look. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
Japan Times
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Japan Times
The persistence of Pride: LGBTQ+ events in Tokyo and beyond
The centerpiece parade and festival of Tokyo Rainbow Pride may be over, but there's still ample opportunity to celebrate diversity and show your solidarity with the queer community. The following programs and events showcase the creativity and resilience of queer people and platforms in a range of creative and professional domains. Queer Art Exhibition (until June 18): Stop by Harajuku for a group show at Baby the Coffee Brew Club, featuring 30 queer artists from around the world working in mediums from wood engraving and photography to illustration. Admission is free. Some of the artwork is for sale and there will be a tip box for contributions to the artists. You can also vote for your favorite artist in the show, with the winner receiving the Tokyo Rainbow Pride Award of ¥100,000. Instagram: @ (until June 18): Stop by Harajuku for a group show at Baby the Coffee Brew Club, featuring 30 queer artists from around the world working in mediums from wood engraving and photography to illustration. Admission is free. Some of the artwork is for sale and there will be a tip box for contributions to the artists. You can also vote for your favorite artist in the show, with the winner receiving the Tokyo Rainbow Pride Award of ¥100,000. Instagram: @ Events at Loneliness Books (June 20-22, 27-29): The queer bookstore in Higashinakano will host a number of programs on the final two weekends of June, including a book launch for Naoki Ota's essay collection 'Gray and Life,' a cinema club discussion and a release party for the latest issue of magazine Kaguya Planet. Instagram: @lonelinessbooks (June 20-22, 27-29): The queer bookstore in Higashinakano will host a number of programs on the final two weekends of June, including a book launch for Naoki Ota's essay collection 'Gray and Life,' a cinema club discussion and a release party for the latest issue of magazine Kaguya Planet. Instagram: @lonelinessbooks Rainbow Reel Tokyo (June 21-22; July 12-13): The 32nd Tokyo International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival will be held at two different venues in Shibuya, EuroLive and Tokyo Women's Plaza Hall. Five feature films and five shorts will be screened, representing productions from Belgium, France, India, the U.K. and the U.S., many of which are premiering in Japan for the first time. Instagram: @rainbowreeltokyo (June 21-22; July 12-13): The 32nd Tokyo International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival will be held at two different venues in Shibuya, EuroLive and Tokyo Women's Plaza Hall. Five feature films and five shorts will be screened, representing productions from Belgium, France, India, the U.K. and the U.S., many of which are premiering in Japan for the first time. Instagram: @rainbowreeltokyo Human Rights Conference (June 22): At Shiseido Hanatsubaki Hall in Ginza, LGTBQ+ activists, academics and professionals will convene to discuss contemporary social issues connected to this year's Tokyo Rainbow Pride theme of 'Same Life, Same Rights.' Three panels and a keynote speech will cover topics such as marriage equality, media misinformation and combating discrimination. Admission is free, but registration is required. (June 22): At Shiseido Hanatsubaki Hall in Ginza, LGTBQ+ activists, academics and professionals will convene to discuss contemporary social issues connected to this year's Tokyo Rainbow Pride theme of 'Same Life, Same Rights.' Three panels and a keynote speech will cover topics such as marriage equality, media misinformation and combating discrimination. Admission is free, but registration is required. Aomori Rainbow Parade (June 28): The coastal city of Hachinohe will host a parade on the final Saturday of the month, beginning from the plaza in front of city hall. X: @RainbowAomori (June 28): The coastal city of Hachinohe will host a parade on the final Saturday of the month, beginning from the plaza in front of city hall. X: @RainbowAomori Seisho Queer Pride (June 29): Manazuru, Kanagawa Prefecture, will celebrate Pride with a parade and party. Original merchandise will be on sale to support the local community. The parade departs from Manazuru Station at 11 a.m. Instagram: @seisho_queer_pride Looking past the summer and beyond the capital, a slew of regional Pride events — some launching for the very first time — are scheduled throughout the fall. Most of these programs have only the dates and venues locked in, and other details are yet to be announced. Make sure to check their websites for the latest information about how to attend or get involved.
Japan Times
27-05-2025
- Business
- Japan Times
Luxury Tokyo penthouse sold for over $65 million in new record
A Tokyo penthouse developed by Swedish buyout firm EQT has sold for about ¥9.5 billion ($67 million), shedding light on the cost of buying into the city's booming high-end property market. The four-bedroom apartment at Marq Omotesando One, a luxury low-rise development near the bustling shopping district of Harajuku, went for more than ¥50 million per tsubo, the highest on record in Japan by that measure, EQT said in a statement. A tsubo is a Japanese unit of measurement that equates to 3.3 square meters, amounting to a sale price of about ¥9.5 billion for the 625-plus square-meter property. The Marq One penthouse stretches across the entire fourth floor of the property, with a spa room, three terraces and a private rooftop and pool. The condo is accessible via a private elevator from the garage, and amenities include a 24-hour concierge service with a valet. While the buyer wasn't disclosed, the price is a peek into the opaque world of luxury real estate sales in Japan. High-end properties in Tokyo have become more prevalent in recent years, as developers seek to tap rising demand from local and foreign buyers for higher returns. Sales are often limited to certain clients, with pricing kept under wraps. Home prices in Tokyo have been on a broad upward trend, driven by rising construction costs and a limited supply of new buildings. Sales of luxury properties in popular developments like Azabudai Hills' Aman Residences and Mita Garden Hills have also skewed average prices higher. EQT developed and finished building the 14-unit property in 2021, before selling the apartments in phases. One unit is still available for sale. The per-tsubo price exceeds the ¥44 million that a penthouse at the Aman in Azabudai Hills reportedly went for last year. That apartment is still the most expensive sold in Japan at a reported ¥30 billion. Prices of prime properties — defined as in the top 5% of the market — jumped more than 50% in Tokyo in the five years to June 2024, a time when values fell in Hong Kong, New York and London, according to real estate consultancy Knight Frank. Tokyo still offers a relative bargain for high-end property, with $1 million buying more than twice the amount of luxury living space than Hong Kong did in 2024, Knight Frank data shows.
Bloomberg
26-05-2025
- Business
- Bloomberg
Luxury Tokyo Penthouse Sold for Over $65 Million in Booming Market
A Tokyo penthouse developed by Swedish buyout firm EQT AB has sold for about ¥9.5 billion ($67 million), shedding light on the cost of buying into the city's booming high-end property market. The four-bedroom apartment at Marq Omotesando One, a luxury low-rise development near the bustling shopping district of Harajuku, went for more than ¥50 million per tsubo, the highest on record in Japan by that measure, EQT said in a statement.
