Latest news with #KandaMatsuri
Japan Forward
29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Japan Forward
A Festival of Japan and America's Special Relationship
For all intents and purposes, it seems that May is the start of the summer festival season. Things start to heat up, in more ways than one! In Tokyo, Kanda Matsuri and Sanja Matsuri take place on the second and third weekends, but my favorite place to be on the third weekend of May is the Black Ships Festival in Shimoda. This celebrates the arrival of Commodore Matthew Perry and his fleet of black ships, some of which were powered by steam, in 1854. At the time, I am convinced the event was not quite so wildly celebrated, but it resulted in the first treaty between an isolated Japan and a Western nation. It triggered the opening of the country at the end of the Edo period. This historical event is celebrated annually in the Black Ships Matsuri or "Kurofune Matsuri" and this year, 2025, was the 86th festival. It is a very well-loved festival bringing people from far and wide to what is normally a sleepy fishing town at the end of the Izu Peninsula. "Edo citizens" at the festival. (©Sheila Cliffe) The celebrations last for three days and on Friday a United States Navy ship arrives from Yokosuka and moors in the bay for the duration of the festival. Fireworks celebrate the arrival of the ship. Most years are marked by sunshine and intense heat, but this year, unfortunately, the Saturday celebration parade was washed out. However, a bit of inclement weather could not dampen the spirit of the event. Although ome performances were canceled, our annual kimono fashion show was able to take place. Fashion show participants. (©Sheila Cliffe) Usually, the fashion show is on a large stage in the grounds of Ryosenji temple. This temple is of great significance as it is the location for the signing of the treaty between Japan and America. The grounds are planted with American jasmine and the sweet perfume of these purple and white flowers is what hits you first upon arrival. Because of the rain, we were permitted to perform the show inside the main temple. Band playing in Ryosenji Temple. (©Sheila Cliffe) Every seat was full and people in raincoats with umbrellas were sheltering under the eaves to catch a glimpse of the show. A fashion show is a chance to dress in something a little more gorgeous than usual. I wore a black summer furisode which is over a hundred years old but paired it with modern accessories for a stylish look. The dark sunglasses and hat lent it a couture feeling even though it was a kimono. Parents and children also participated, demonstrating that kimono is for everyone. The wide variety of styles showcased was an opportunity to be inspired and especially see that there can be variety and color in men's kimono too. Parade in progress at the festival. (©Sheila Cliffe) Fashion show over, I visited the Museum of Black Ships at Ryosenji and learned a little bit about the history. It is hard to imagine that this small cove, in a location that takes longer to get to than Kyoto, was once a gateway to the West and had some of Japan's first encounters with new technologies, goods, and lifestyles. The main route to the temple is down the straight route now called Perry Road, which goes directly to the seafront. It has buildings from the Meiji and Taisho eras on it, and the small river next to the street is lined with willow trees. Perry Road (left) and the author's outfit for the fashion show . (©Sheila Cliffe) Now there are fashionable bars, restaurants, and coffee shops there. It is a great place for picturesque photoshoots with a little red bridge and all the romance of the historical buildings and willows waving by the water. One can imagine what a stir must have been caused by groups of American sailors arriving and walking up this street to the temple. After that, we hit the streets to enjoy some of the street food sellers and the entertainment around the town that cater to the visitors. The main streets are shut off to vehicles and chairs and tables enable one to partake in the pleasure of eating and drinking outside if the weather cooperates. On this day, it really didn't, so we retired to our hotel early. In the evening there were concerts with the US Navy marching band and others in the local culture center. Okinawan band at the festival. (©Sheila Cliffe) The main events of the festival on Sunday are a re-enactment of the treaty signing, and the parade around the town by various groups who have their skills or styles showcased. There are several bands including the one from Yokosuka, and various school bands. Minyo folk music and Okinawan drums can also be heard. The elementary school students ride on their unicycles and everyone enjoys dressing up. It was almost like going back to the future with Star Wars characters (who certainly did not arrive on black ships), Jack Sparrow (who might have), rubbing shoulders with samurai, geisha, sea captains, and various miscellaneous Edo shopkeepers and a few ruffians, too. Star Wars cosplayers (©Sheila Cliffe) The kimono group brings up the rear and we wave to the locals lining the streets. Every year, I am deeply moved by how happy the crowd is. The children wave Japanese and American flags, and parents, grandparents, and whole family groups gather at the edge of the road to clap, wave, and enjoy the parade going by. Sheila Cliffe with some "ruffians" at the Black Ship Festival. (©Sheila Cliffe) The street food sellers must have been a lot happier on Sunday While not sunny, the rain held off and people were enjoying their street food and drink. We even got up and danced to a local acoustic band playing the Beatles and Jackson Browne. There was magic, monkeys, storytelling, hip-hop, balloons and popcorn. Everyone from 2 to 102 could enjoy something out on the streets of Shimoda. I chose to walk along the bay past all the yachts and small fishing boats to the start of Perry Road. There is a memorial here to Commodore Perry and next to it, a candle is lighted to celebrate the friendship between Japan and America. Monument of Matthew C Perry. (©Sheila Cliffe) Carnations were laid in front of the Perry memorial and looking at the candle it seemed very poignant to me. In this time of political uncertainty and unrest, I thought that the Black Ships Matsuri is extremely significant, demonstrating the best of Japan–US friendship, literally on a street level. Author: Sheila Cliffe Read other columns on kimono by the author .
Metropolis Japan
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Metropolis Japan
Anime Pop-Up Shops Tokyo 2025
Whether you're into vintage mecha models, steamy sento collabs or photo-worthy theme cafes, Tokyo continues to be the go-to city for limited-run anime events. If you've been searching for the best anime pop-up Tokyo has to offer this season, you're in luck. Summer 2025 brings everything from Gundam figure exhibitions to character-themed cafés, shrine collabs and manga-inspired treasure hunts. Here's your guide to the must-visit anime pop-up shops happening in Tokyo 2025 Gundam fans, it's time to suit up. At Akihabara's Tamashii Store, visitors can view every collector's figure ever released from the legendary Gundam franchise. From early series to the newest releases, admire the mechanical precision and detail of Mobile Suits from across the decades. Whether you're a longtime Gundam enthusiast or just curious about the origins of Japanese mecha anime, this free exhibition is a rare chance to see over 40 years of design evolution up close. Tamashii Store Tokyo, 1-1 Kanda Hanaoka-cho, Chiyoda-ku11am – 8pmFree Akihabara welcomes back the classic anime Mashin Hero Wataru with a retro-meets-modern pop-up. Featuring characters from both the original 80s series and the new 2025 installment, the store sells nostalgic merchandise like vintage-style T-shirts and illustrations. Perfect for parents introducing their childhood favorites to a new generation. Atre Akihabara 2F, 1-17-6 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku10am – 9pmFree At Kanda Shrine, illustrations from The Apothecary Diaries —drawn by manga artist Shino Toko—adorn the grounds in celebration of Kanda Matsuri. Characters wear shrine-inspired outfits in a setting that fits perfectly with the anime's spiritual themes. Don't miss the exclusive on-site merch. Kanda Shrine, 2-16-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku Times and prices vary; see the Kanda Matsuri official site for more information Celebrate the theatrical release of Jujutsu Kaisen 's omnibus edition with a limited-time cafe collaboration. Expect character-themed drinks and desserts, limited-edition coasters and new visuals featuring Gojo, Geto and the rest of the crew. Animate Cafe Gratte locations across TokyoTimes varyPrices vary Yurakucho Marui hosts this brief but moody pop-up for the anime Apocalypse Hotel . Stop by to enter a lottery-based prize draw and pick up exclusive items like illustration cards and a collectible canvas board. Limited to just one week, so plan ahead. Yurakucho Marui 8F, 2-7-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku11am – 7pmFree What if your favorite Blue Lock characters joined you at an open-air bath? This second collaboration with hot spring chain Gokurakuyu brings new illustrations, themed menu items and limited merch to 16 stores nationwide. Tokyo's closest venue is Gokurakuyu Tama Center. Multiple locations nationwideGokurakuyu Tama Center, 1-39 Ochiai, Tama-shiPrices vary May 22 – June 17 A second collaboration for The Apothecary Diaries also arrives at Gokurakuyu and RAKU SPA locations. With medicinal-themed baths, themed meals and original goods, it's a natural fit for this courtly crime-solving anime. Tokyo's closest venue is Raku Spa Station Fuchu. Multiple locations nationwideRaku Spa Station Fuchu, 1-5-1 Miyanishicho, Fuchu-shiPrices vary At this Omotesando, Tokyo pop-up cafe, popular anime characters from Oshi no Ko don tea house uniforms and serve up photo-ready meals and sweets. The cafe offers themed drinks, limited-time dishes and exclusive merch. Reservation recommended. Natslive Cafe Omotesando, 3-11-7 Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku11am – 8pmPrices vary Relive your digital pet days at this adorable Tamagotchi theme cafe. The characters from Puchi Puchi Omisetchi are running the show, dishing out themed food and managing shops inside Capcom Cafe in Ikebukuro. Capcom Cafe, Grandscape Ikebukuro 3F, 1-30-3 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku10am – 10pmPrices vary Magician Hisoka takes center stage in the third Hunter × Hunter theme cafe at Animate Cafe. Head to Ikebukuro for specialty drinks, food inspired by the series and Hisoka-only visuals. Animate Cafe Ikebukuro 3rd Store, 1-20-6 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima City11:30am – 7pmPrices vary The laid-back assassin Sakamoto gets a cafe all to himself. Featuring menu items, exclusive merch and life-size panels of the main characters, this Dish Up collaboration brings Sakamoto Days to life in Omotesando. Dish Up, Shinjuku Marui Annex 8F, 3-1-26 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku11am – 9pmPrices vary Sip stylish non-alcoholic cocktails in a sleek Ginza lounge themed after Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba . Entry is by lottery, so check the site in advance to secure a spot. Ufotable Mocktail Bar GinzaReservation-only Celebrate the new Detective Conan film with themed cafes in Shibuya, Ikebukuro and Solamachi. Expect mystery-themed meals, goods featuring characters in butler outfits, and photogenic cafe interiors. Multiple Tokyo locations: Ikebukuro: BOX cafe&space Grandscape (Apr 4 – Jul 27) Shibuya: BOX cafe&space GEMS (Apr 18 – Jun 29) Solamachi: BOX cafe&space (Apr 11 – Jun 8) Check out our other anime related content: LGBTQ+ Anime That Strive To Get It Right Seven 80s Anime Movies You'll Adore Tokyo Cafés Featured in Anime
Metropolis Japan
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Metropolis Japan
Anime Pop-Up Shops Tokyo 2025 Metropolis Japan
Whether you're into vintage mecha models, steamy sento collabs or photo-worthy theme cafes, Tokyo continues to be the go-to city for limited-run anime events. If you've been searching for the best anime pop-up Tokyo has to offer this season, you're in luck. Summer 2025 brings everything from Gundam figure exhibitions to character-themed cafés, shrine collabs and manga-inspired treasure hunts. Here's your guide to the must-visit anime pop-up shops happening in Tokyo 2025 Gundam fans, it's time to suit up. At Akihabara's Tamashii Store, visitors can view every collector's figure ever released from the legendary Gundam franchise. From early series to the newest releases, admire the mechanical precision and detail of Mobile Suits from across the decades. Whether you're a longtime Gundam enthusiast or just curious about the origins of Japanese mecha anime, this free exhibition is a rare chance to see over 40 years of design evolution up close. Tamashii Store Tokyo, 1-1 Kanda Hanaoka-cho, Chiyoda-ku11am – 8pmFree Akihabara welcomes back the classic anime Mashin Hero Wataru with a retro-meets-modern pop-up. Featuring characters from both the original 80s series and the new 2025 installment, the store sells nostalgic merchandise like vintage-style T-shirts and illustrations. Perfect for parents introducing their childhood favorites to a new generation. Atre Akihabara 2F, 1-17-6 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku10am – 9pmFree At Kanda Shrine, illustrations from The Apothecary Diaries —drawn by manga artist Shino Toko—adorn the grounds in celebration of Kanda Matsuri. Characters wear shrine-inspired outfits in a setting that fits perfectly with the anime's spiritual themes. Don't miss the exclusive on-site merch. Kanda Shrine, 2-16-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku Times and prices vary; see the Kanda Matsuri official site for more information Celebrate the theatrical release of Jujutsu Kaisen 's omnibus edition with a limited-time cafe collaboration. Expect character-themed drinks and desserts, limited-edition coasters and new visuals featuring Gojo, Geto and the rest of the crew. Animate Cafe Gratte locations across TokyoTimes varyPrices vary Yurakucho Marui hosts this brief but moody pop-up for the anime Apocalypse Hotel . Stop by to enter a lottery-based prize draw and pick up exclusive items like illustration cards and a collectible canvas board. Limited to just one week, so plan ahead. Yurakucho Marui 8F, 2-7-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku11am – 7pmFree What if your favorite Blue Lock characters joined you at an open-air bath? This second collaboration with hot spring chain Gokurakuyu brings new illustrations, themed menu items and limited merch to 16 stores nationwide. Tokyo's closest venue is Gokurakuyu Tama Center. Multiple locations nationwideGokurakuyu Tama Center, 1-39 Ochiai, Tama-shiPrices vary May 22 – June 17 A second collaboration for The Apothecary Diaries also arrives at Gokurakuyu and RAKU SPA locations. With medicinal-themed baths, themed meals and original goods, it's a natural fit for this courtly crime-solving anime. Tokyo's closest venue is Raku Spa Station Fuchu. Multiple locations nationwideRaku Spa Station Fuchu, 1-5-1 Miyanishicho, Fuchu-shiPrices vary At this Omotesando, Tokyo pop-up cafe, popular anime characters from Oshi no Ko don tea house uniforms and serve up photo-ready meals and sweets. The cafe offers themed drinks, limited-time dishes and exclusive merch. Reservation recommended. Natslive Cafe Omotesando, 3-11-7 Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku11am – 8pmPrices vary Relive your digital pet days at this adorable Tamagotchi theme cafe. The characters from Puchi Puchi Omisetchi are running the show, dishing out themed food and managing shops inside Capcom Cafe in Ikebukuro. Capcom Cafe, Grandscape Ikebukuro 3F, 1-30-3 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku10am – 10pmPrices vary Magician Hisoka takes center stage in the third Hunter × Hunter theme cafe at Animate Cafe. Head to Ikebukuro for specialty drinks, food inspired by the series and Hisoka-only visuals. Animate Cafe Ikebukuro 3rd Store, 1-20-6 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima City11:30am – 7pmPrices vary The laid-back assassin Sakamoto gets a cafe all to himself. Featuring menu items, exclusive merch and life-size panels of the main characters, this Dish Up collaboration brings Sakamoto Days to life in Omotesando. Dish Up, Shinjuku Marui Annex 8F, 3-1-26 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku11am – 9pmPrices vary Sip stylish non-alcoholic cocktails in a sleek Ginza lounge themed after Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba . Entry is by lottery, so check the site in advance to secure a spot. Ufotable Mocktail Bar GinzaReservation-only Celebrate the new Detective Conan film with themed cafes in Shibuya, Ikebukuro and Solamachi. Expect mystery-themed meals, goods featuring characters in butler outfits, and photogenic cafe interiors. Multiple Tokyo locations: Ikebukuro: BOX cafe&space Grandscape (Apr 4 – Jul 27) Shibuya: BOX cafe&space GEMS (Apr 18 – Jun 29) Solamachi: BOX cafe&space (Apr 11 – Jun 8) Check out our other anime related content: LGBTQ+ Anime That Strive To Get It Right Seven 80s Anime Movies You'll Adore Tokyo Cafés Featured in Anime
Yahoo
14-04-2025
- Yahoo
Your essential guide to visiting Tokyo, Japan
One of the world's most populous cities, Tokyo brings together many of the elements that make Japan so popular with travelers. Visit youthful Shibuya and upscale Ginza to experience the modern side of Tokyo, then seek out moments of tradition at Meiji Jingu shrine, Senso-ji temple and Rikugi-en garden. Hike Mt. Takao for a taste of Japan's great outdoors. Depending on when you come, you could time your visit for cherry blossom season or any number of traditional festivals. And don't forget the food. From sublime sushi to comforting ramen, Tokyo is a culinary powerhouse. Spring: Around late March to mid-April, there's nothing more Japanese than picnicking in the pink shade of Tokyo's cherry blossoms – whether that's with thousands of others in Ueno Park or in more peaceful spots like Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. In mid-May, check out the traditional procession of floats and portable shrines that define the Kanda Matsuri. Summer: In early summer, grab your rainbow colors for Tokyo Pride, the country's largest event for the LGBTQ+ community and allies. It includes a Pride festival and parade on the first weekend in June, as well as a Youth Pride event the following weekend. During the midsummer heat and humidity, take in the Sumida River Fireworks display in late July and the Awa-Odori dance festival in August in Koenji. Fall: As Tokyo contemplates cooling down, the second half of September sees Japan's best (and biggest) sumo take part in 15 days of grueling bouts at the Kokugikan arena in Ryogoku. From mid-November to early December, the fall foliage then reaches its fiery-red and golden-yellow peak on Mount Takao in western Tokyo, while a week or so later is usually the best time to see the maples at Rikugi-en, an 18th-century landscaped garden in the city center. Winter: Soak up the winter vibes at the Tokyo Midtown complex in Roppongi, where from mid-November through December there's an ice skating rink, Christmas market, and the grounds are decorated with hundreds of thousands of bubble lights. In mid-December, pick up antiques, crafts and bargains at Setagaya's annual Boro-ichi flea market, which dates to the late 1500s. Winter is also a great time to head out of the city for winter sports. The slopes of Gala Yuzawa in Niigata Prefecture are only 75 minutes away by high-speed bullet train. (Related: 10 not-to-be-missed things to do in Tokyo.) Eastern Tokyo: Start in Asakusa with the towering gateways and pagoda of Senso-ji temple. Nearby, you could take a cruise down the Sumida River or walk 15 minutes west for Kappabashi, a street dedicated to serving the city's culinary trade. It's the ideal place to pick up a handcrafted Japanese knife, chopsticks, or even the plastic replicas of dishes found in restaurant window displays. A little further east is Ueno, best known for the bustling Ameya Yokocho street market and the many attractions of Ueno Park. Central Tokyo: The heart of Tokyo is packed with things to see and do: Ginza for glitzy stores and Michelin-starred restaurants, Shibuya for youthful fashions and nightlife, and Roppongi for sleek urban complexes and contemporary art. In Shinjuku, you can chill in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, hit numerous department stores, and attempt to navigate the world's busiest train station. Western Tokyo: Moving west, Tokyo becomes more suburban and eventually rural. Off the tourist trail, Chofu is home to 8th-century Jindai-ji, one of the oldest temples in Tokyo, which you could combine with a visit to the neighboring Jindai Botanical Gardens. Mount Takao offers hiking trails, views across to Mount Fuji, and a mountainside temple complex, called Yakuo-in, that holds a fire-walking festival in March. Turn up and you are more than welcome to tread the coals. (Related: A family-friendly guide to plan a trip to Tokyo with your kids.) Chanko nabe: packed with meat, seafood, tofu and vegetables, this is the hotpot sumo wrestlers use to bulk. You'll find many chanko specialists near the main sumo arena in Ryogoku, including the 40-year-old Chanko Tomoegata. Ramen: You'll find most of Japan's ramen variations in Tokyo, from soy-based broths to miso or pork-bone broths. In recent years, the consommé-like soup at Ginza Hachigou and spicy tantanmen ramen at Nakiryu have created a buzz, but any ramen-ya with a queue of locals outside will deliver a bowl of comforting noodles. For a selection of ramen styles under one roof, head to Tokyo Ramen Street at Tokyo Station. Sushi: Like ramen, sushi isn't a singular experience. For a splurge, there are 20 intimate sushi-ya in Tokyo with Michelin stars – including the three-starred Harutaka in Ginza. At the other end of the spectrum are low-cost, family-friendly chains like Sushiro and Uobei, where the sushi is delivered via conveyor belts. (Related: A culinary guide to Japan.) Janu Tokyo: Opened in the swanky Azubudai Hills complex in 2024, Aman's first Janu hotel in Japan isn't just five-star luxury, it also offers access to exclusive cultural experiences, such as bonsai workshops. Yuen Shinjuku: Most of Tokyo's central hotels are Western-style and modern, but Yuen offers the opportunity to stay in a contemporary take on a ryokan inn in the city center, complete with tatami mat rooms and hot-spring bathing. (Related: Some of the nicest gardens in Tokyo are hidden behind hotels.) By air: Both Haneda and Narita airports have international flights to multiple parts of the US. Haneda is in the south of Tokyo, while Narita is 40 miles east of Tokyo in Chiba Prefecture. Frequent rail and bus services connect both airports to the city center. By rail and subway: By far the best way to get around Tokyo is the efficient rail and subway network, which has dozens of lines crisscrossing the city. Get a contactless Suica or Pasmo transport card, so you don't have to think about buying a ticket each time you travel or transfer lines. By bicycle: When the weather is nice, do as many Tokyoites do: cycle. A handy option is to use a bike share service, such as Docomo, although you can also find bike rental stores. Just be sure to check out the before setting off. Manners: Overtourism is a growing issue in Tokyo, with local coverage often focusing on traveler behavior: think tourists vandalizing sacred shrines and trespassing on private property. In terms of basic manners, avoid talking loudly in public spaces, don't litter, and look out for etiquette posters on trains, temples and tourist attractions – they detail key manners. LGBTQ+: Shinjuku Ni-chome, near Shinjuku Station, is the largest LGBTQ+ neighborhood in Japan, with hundreds of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Japan has no laws against same-sex relationships. (Related: Why this Buddhist monk has become an LGBTQ+ role model in Tokyo.) Sushi's 4-S rule: Seafood that's small, silver, seasonal, or shellfish tends to have a lower environmental impact. Also consider avoiding bluefin tuna and freshwater eel, as both are suffering from overfishing. Secondhand souvenirs: Skip the souvenir stores in favor of Tokyo's antique and flea markets. Oedo Antiques Market on the first and third Sundays of each month is a good hunting ground for traditional arts and crafts, such as ceramics and ukiyo-e prints. The Koenji and Shimokitazawa neighborhoods are known for their vintage fashions and hip recycle shops. Rob Goss is a freelance writer based in Tokyo, covering travel and culture in Japan. Follow him on Instagram.
National Geographic
14-04-2025
- National Geographic
Everything you need to know for the perfect Tokyo trip
One of the world's most populous cities, Tokyo brings together many of the elements that make Japan so popular with travelers. Visit youthful Shibuya and upscale Ginza to experience the modern side of Tokyo, then seek out moments of tradition at Meiji Jingu shrine, Senso-ji temple and Rikugi-en garden. Hike Mt. Takao for a taste of Japan's great outdoors. Depending on when you come, you could time your visit for cherry blossom season or any number of traditional festivals. And don't forget the food. From sublime sushi to comforting ramen, Tokyo is a culinary powerhouse. Best time to visit Tokyo This photo captures the street view outside the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. Photograph by David Guttenfelder, Nat Geo Image Collection The 2080-foot-tall Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan, offers panoramic views of Tokyo and is one of the few spots you can see Mount Fuji. Photograph by Alvin Huang, Getty Images Spring: Around late March to mid-April, there's nothing more Japanese than picnicking in the pink shade of Tokyo's cherry blossoms – whether that's with thousands of others in Ueno Park or in more peaceful spots like Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. In mid-May, check out the traditional procession of floats and portable shrines that define the Kanda Matsuri. Summer: In early summer, grab your rainbow colors for Tokyo Pride, the country's largest event for the LGBTQ+ community and allies. It includes a Pride festival and parade on the first weekend in June, as well as a Youth Pride event the following weekend. During the midsummer heat and humidity, take in the Sumida River Fireworks display in late July and the Awa-Odori dance festival in August in Koenji. Fall: As Tokyo contemplates cooling down, the second half of September sees Japan's best (and biggest) sumo take part in 15 days of grueling bouts at the Kokugikan arena in Ryogoku. From mid-November to early December, the fall foliage then reaches its fiery-red and golden-yellow peak on Mount Takao in western Tokyo, while a week or so later is usually the best time to see the maples at Rikugi-en, an 18th-century landscaped garden in the city center. Winter: Soak up the winter vibes at the Tokyo Midtown complex in Roppongi, where from mid-November through December there's an ice skating rink, Christmas market, and the grounds are decorated with hundreds of thousands of bubble lights. In mid-December, pick up antiques, crafts and bargains at Setagaya's annual Boro-ichi flea market, which dates to the late 1500s. Winter is also a great time to head out of the city for winter sports. The slopes of Gala Yuzawa in Niigata Prefecture are only 75 minutes away by high-speed bullet train. (Related: 10 not-to-be-missed things to do in Tokyo.) Key areas to explore in Tokyo Eastern Tokyo: Start in Asakusa with the towering gateways and pagoda of Senso-ji temple. Nearby, you could take a cruise down the Sumida River or walk 15 minutes west for Kappabashi, a street dedicated to serving the city's culinary trade. It's the ideal place to pick up a handcrafted Japanese knife, chopsticks, or even the plastic replicas of dishes found in restaurant window displays. A little further east is Ueno, best known for the bustling Ameya Yokocho street market and the many attractions of Ueno Park. Senso-ji temple is an ancient Buddhist temple located in the Asakusa neighborhood of Tokyo. Photograph by David Guttenfelder, Nat Geo Image Collection Central Tokyo: The heart of Tokyo is packed with things to see and do: Ginza for glitzy stores and Michelin-starred restaurants, Shibuya for youthful fashions and nightlife, and Roppongi for sleek urban complexes and contemporary art. In Shinjuku, you can chill in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, hit numerous department stores, and attempt to navigate the world's busiest train station. Western Tokyo: Moving west, Tokyo becomes more suburban and eventually rural. Off the tourist trail, Chofu is home to 8th-century Jindai-ji, one of the oldest temples in Tokyo, which you could combine with a visit to the neighboring Jindai Botanical Gardens. Mount Takao offers hiking trails, views across to Mount Fuji, and a mountainside temple complex, called Yakuo-in, that holds a fire-walking festival in March. Turn up and you are more than welcome to tread the coals. (Related: A family-friendly guide to plan a trip to Tokyo with your kids.) Taste of Tokyo While viiting Tokyo, visitors should consider exploring the nightlife in the Yurachucho and Shimbashi neighborhoods. Photograph by David Guttenfelder, Nat Geo Image Collection Chanko nabe: packed with meat, seafood, tofu and vegetables, this is the hotpot sumo wrestlers use to bulk. You'll find many chanko specialists near the main sumo arena in Ryogoku, including the 40-year-old Chanko Tomoegata. Ramen: You'll find most of Japan's ramen variations in Tokyo, from soy-based broths to miso or pork-bone broths. In recent years, the consommé-like soup at Ginza Hachigou and spicy tantanmen ramen at Nakiryu have created a buzz, but any ramen-ya with a queue of locals outside will deliver a bowl of comforting noodles. For a selection of ramen styles under one roof, head to Tokyo Ramen Street at Tokyo Station. Sushi: Like ramen, sushi isn't a singular experience. For a splurge, there are 20 intimate sushi-ya in Tokyo with Michelin stars – including the three-starred Harutaka in Ginza. At the other end of the spectrum are low-cost, family-friendly chains like Sushiro and Uobei, where the sushi is delivered via conveyor belts. (Related: A culinary guide to Japan.) Where to stay Janu Tokyo: Opened in the swanky Azubudai Hills complex in 2024, Aman's first Janu hotel in Japan isn't just five-star luxury, it also offers access to exclusive cultural experiences, such as bonsai workshops. Yuen Shinjuku: Most of Tokyo's central hotels are Western-style and modern, but Yuen offers the opportunity to stay in a contemporary take on a ryokan inn in the city center, complete with tatami mat rooms and hot-spring bathing. (Related: Some of the nicest gardens in Tokyo are hidden behind hotels.) Getting around Locals and out-of-towners can get this incredible view of Tokyo at sunset from the top of the Moro Tower building. Photograph by David Guttenfelder, Nat Geo Image Collection By air: Both Haneda and Narita airports have international flights to multiple parts of the US. Haneda is in the south of Tokyo, while Narita is 40 miles east of Tokyo in Chiba Prefecture. Frequent rail and bus services connect both airports to the city center. By rail and subway: By far the best way to get around Tokyo is the efficient rail and subway network, which has dozens of lines crisscrossing the city. Get a contactless Suica or Pasmo transport card, so you don't have to think about buying a ticket each time you travel or transfer lines. By bicycle: When the weather is nice, do as many Tokyoites do: cycle. A handy option is to use a bike share service, such as Docomo, although you can also find bike rental stores. Just be sure to check out the before setting off. Know before you go Manners: Overtourism is a growing issue in Tokyo, with local coverage often focusing on traveler behavior: think tourists vandalizing sacred shrines and trespassing on private property. In terms of basic manners, avoid talking loudly in public spaces, don't litter, and look out for etiquette posters on trains, temples and tourist attractions – they detail key manners. LGBTQ+: Shinjuku Ni-chome, near Shinjuku Station, is the largest LGBTQ+ neighborhood in Japan, with hundreds of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Japan has no laws against same-sex relationships. (Related: Why this Buddhist monk has become an LGBTQ+ role model in Tokyo.) How to visit Tokyo sustainably Sushi's 4-S rule: Seafood that's small, silver, seasonal, or shellfish tends to have a lower environmental impact. Also consider avoiding bluefin tuna and freshwater eel, as both are suffering from overfishing. Secondhand souvenirs: Skip the souvenir stores in favor of Tokyo's antique and flea markets. Oedo Antiques Market on the first and third Sundays of each month is a good hunting ground for traditional arts and crafts, such as ceramics and ukiyo-e prints. The Koenji and Shimokitazawa neighborhoods are known for their vintage fashions and hip recycle shops.
