Things to Do in Tokyo: New Events & Hot Spots (Updated 2026)

teamLab Planets TOKYO is an immersive art museum located in Toyosu, Tokyo. Visitors can reach the museum in approximately 15 minutes by taxi from Tokyo Station or via a 15-minute drive from Haneda Airport. This unique museum invites guests to fully engage with art by walking through water and experiencing interactive installations. The artworks are dynamic, changing in response to the presence and movements of visitors, creating a personalized experience for each individual. At teamLab Planets, guests can expect to perceive and become one with the art, offering a blend of visual and sensory experiences that are both captivating and thought-provoking. This innovative approach to art encourages exploration and interaction, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. Consider planning your visit to teamLab Planets TOKYO to experience this extraordinary fusion of art and technology!

Visiting Japan in fall, it’s hard to resist those sweet, fragrant sweet potatoes. This year’s やきいもフェス will be held concurrently in Tokyo and Osaka for 10 straight days, featuring not only classic roasted sweet potatoes but also inventive sweets and savories that highlight an extra-crispy crunch. ✨ Highlights and limited-time menu Two-city celebration: The Tokyo venue is at Nakano Shikinomori Park, and the Osaka venue is at Taiyo-no-Hiroba in Osaka Castle Park. Both offer a great fall outdoor atmosphere. 30 sweet-potato ways to indulge: On site you’ll find salted butter brûlée roasted sweet potatoes, chocolate sweet potatoes, pot-roasted sweet potato coffee jelly sundaes, sweet potato gratin, and sweet potato cream cheese sandwiches, and you can compare different sweet potato varieties side by side. Texture spotlight: This year especially focuses on a layered bite—"Zaku-zaku! Pari-pari!"—perfect for devoted sweet potato fans. 💡 Practical pre-trip tips Event dates: October 30–November 8, 2026. Free entry; food and drinks are à la carte. Payment tips: The event is cashless only (no cash accepted). Before you go, make sure you have a credit card, a Suica or other transit IC card, or another e-payment method.

July 15, 2026–May 31, 2027, the hit Korean exhibition Sanrio characters Exhibition Hotel Floria Tokyo (Hotel Floria Tokyo) makes its Japan debut at Tokyu Kabukicho Tower in Tokyo's Shinjuku Ward. With a dream hotel imagined by Sanrio characters as its theme, the exhibition delivers an immersive hotel room tour. Check in just like at a real hotel, then step into themed guest rooms designed by Hello Kitty, My Melody, Kuromi, and more to soak in a fantasy world of light and color. You will also find a lineup of original merchandise, including plush toys, keychains, luggage tags, and more, perfect for every fan’s collection. Highlights span multiple themed zones: at the entrance, check in alongside the Sanrio characters; in the guest rooms, experience their uniquely dreamy designs; in the garden, join a party hosted by Little Twin Stars Kiki and Lala; in the ballroom, dance with the characters; and on the pink beach, bask in a romantic, tech-driven resort vibe. Every area bursts with surprises and photo-worthy moments—an unmissable spot for Sanrio fans. At Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, dive into the adorable world of Sanrio characters and embark on a one-of-a-kind dream journey!

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is debuting "Autumn Night Museum," a fall night at the museums. From Nov 5–27, six Tokyo Metropolitan museums and art museums will stay open until 8:00 PM every Friday. Explore Tokyo by day, then pick a museum at night to linger over an exhibition or enjoy a concert. ✨ Core highlights and must-do experiences • Edo-Tokyo Museum: See the permanent exhibition and a special show on late Edo/Meiji-era Japanese students and their exchanges with Rutgers University in the United States. On the evening of Nov 6, enjoy a mini concert in front of the Nakamuraza stage inside the permanent exhibition galleries. Entry requires a permanent exhibition ticket. • Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum: The centennial Orsay masterpieces exhibition brings together approx. 110 works, including paintings, sculpture, and photography, with evening viewing on Nov 20 and 27. Two concurrent centennial exhibitions are free. The Orsay exhibition is not eligible for evening discounts. • Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum: In the Art Deco spaces of the former Prince Asaka residence, see 60+ Marimekko dresses set against rooms filled with pattern. Also open until 8:00 PM on Saturday, Nov 21. Timed-entry reservations are required, and some garden paths close early. • Tokyo Photographic Art Museum: On the second floor, "Duet" presents photography and video by six Asian artists. A next-generation photography show on the third floor rethinks the photograph through memory, materials, and technology. There are evening hours on Thu and Fri. The Kimura Ihei Award 50th anniversary exhibition runs only until Nov 23. • Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo: Discover how Minami Tada uses metal, glass, and acrylic to shape light that shifts with your viewpoint. "Synchronic Constellation" places Taiwanese and Japanese art, film, and literature in a maze-like exhibition space. • Shibuya Koen-dori Gallery: Visit the free Art Brut exhibition "Creative Training!" featuring works such as lovingly reworked old photographs and drawings made by gripping a pen with toes. There is also a free mini concert on the evening of Nov 20. 💡 Tips for your visit Students entering after 5:00 PM get free admission, and adults and guests aged 65+ receive group-rate discounts. These apply only to designated exhibitions, with exceptions such as the Orsay show. Most venues have last entry at 7:30 PM. Before you go, check the target venue’s evening schedule and reservation requirements.

Japan’s fall foliage isn’t limited to Kyoto’s classic attractions—there are plenty of beautiful, lesser-known hidden gems that are perfect for immersing yourself in the spirit of a Japanese fall. Here are some top picks to experience the season’s calm and romance. 🏯 Kifune Shrine ⏰ Dates: early to mid November ✨ Highlights: • Vermilion lanterns line the stone steps at the entrance, weaving a tapestry with the surrounding crimson leaves. • After nightfall, the illuminated foliage feels even more mysterious and romantic. • Try water fortune-telling: place your fortune slip in sacred water to reveal your message. 🚋 Eizan Railway Maple Tunnel ⏰ Dates: early to mid November ✨ Highlights: • Around dusk, trains turn off their lights and slow down while passing through the maple tunnel. • With the cabin lights off, a soft glow lights up the maple-lined corridor on both sides. 🌳 Takao, Makino-o, and Toganoo ✨ Highlights: • Jingo-ji Temple, Saimyō-ji Temple, and Kōsan-ji Temple are renowned for fall foliage. • Fewer crowds mean you can linger over views of ancient temples framed by maple leaves. • Photo itineraries can include kimono models for stunning autumn portraits. 🚶 Kumano-Kodo Nakahechi Pilgrimage Route hiking event ⏰ Dates: Nov 21 and Nov 27, 2026 ✨ Highlights: • Hike through the dense forests of the Kii Mountains, linking the Kumano Sanzan and Seiganto-ji on Mt. Nachi. • Stone Buddhas and sutra mounds appear amid the foliage, serene and sacred. • Stay at a traditional hot spring ryokan afterward and enjoy authentic local cuisine. • Official guides enhance the cultural experience along the route. 🏘 Nakasendo: Tsumago-juku to Magome-juku ✨ Highlights: • Tsumago-juku preserves an Edo-period atmosphere—stroll the lanes and soak up the peace. • Maples, cedars, and ginkgo trees blend into a kaleidoscope of color. • Magome-juku sits on a slope at the end of the walk, with lattice-windowed houses showcasing strong local character. • Try regional specialties like gohei-mochi and soba noodles. 🌳 University of Tokyo Ginkgo Avenue ⏰ Season: fall ✨ Highlights: • The golden ginkgo avenue from Akamon to Yasuda Auditorium exudes scholarly charm. • Tall ginkgo trees turn brilliant gold in the autumn sun. • Yasuda Auditorium pairs beautifully with the dazzling ginkgo, offering a tranquil, romantic academic vibe. 💡 Travel tips: Book limited-availability options like hot spring hotels in advance. Dress warmly for fall travel—mountain areas can have large temperature swings. Come to Japan to discover these scenic, crowd-free hidden gems and experience the unique charm of a Japanese fall.

Originating in Los Angeles, United States, Randy's Donuts has opened a new takeout-only shop at Tokyo Solamachi at the base of Tokyo Skytree. This is its 8th store in Japan and the first in eastern Tokyo. On October 29, 2026, Randy's Donuts Tokyo Solamachi officially opened, bringing dessert lovers a fresh, delicious experience. 🍩 Donuts and limited-time special The shop offers more than 40 different donut flavors to satisfy every palate. To celebrate the opening, a limited-edition Strawberry Matcha Glazed donut is available. Inspired by the gleaming Tokyo Skytree, its green matcha and red strawberry colors are topped with star-shaped sprinkles. Beautiful and flavorful, this donut is available for a limited time through November 19, 2026. 🎁 Opening merchandise and promotions The shop also features original Tokyo Skytree-themed items, including a clear water bottle and a sky-blue takeout bag, combining practicality with keepsake value. For the first 3 days, the first 100 customers each day will receive 1 signature donut for free. Spend the minimum required amount to receive an original badge or keychain to add to the fun. ⏰ Business hours: 10:00 AM–9:00 PM ⏰ Date: Opens October 29, 2026 Come to Randy's Donuts Tokyo Solamachi and experience the unique charm of donuts!

Tokyo Tower now offers an open-air outdoor staircase experience, featuring approximately 600 steps that rise to a height of 150 meters from the roof of the "Foot Town" building at the towers base. Visitors can ascend the stairs in about 12 to 13 minutes, enjoying panoramic views of Tokyo and the refreshing breeze along the way. The staircase is accessible to a wide range of visitors, with even preschool-aged children able to complete the climb in around 15 minutes. This activity provides a unique alternative to the elevator, allowing participants to engage in light exercise while appreciating the cityscape. Reaching the top by foot offers a sense of achievement and satisfaction, making it an appealing option for those seeking both adventure and wellness. The open-air setting enhances the experience, offering a memorable perspective of Tokyo Tower and its surroundings. For travelers looking to add a healthy and rewarding activity to their itinerary, climbing the outdoor stairs at Tokyo Tower is a distinctive way to enjoy one of the citys iconic landmarks. Consider checking in and experiencing the tower from a new angle.

This fall, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo welcomes its first-ever Japan-exclusive Dark Halloween special event! The entire studio is shrouded in dark magic, transforming into a dangerous Dark Arts world where the sinister universe from the Harry Potter films comes to life on an awe-inspiring scale unique to the studio. Event information ▪️ Event name: Dark Arts Halloween (闇の魔術のハロウィーン) ▪️ Location: Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo ▪️ Dates: September 10, 2026 (Thu)–November 8, 2026 (Sun) ▪️ First time in Japan\n\nHalloween Great Hall ▪️ The Great Hall at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is adorned with special seasonal decorations ▪️ Countless pumpkin lanterns float from the ceiling, recreating the iconic scene from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone ▪️ Tables are laden with sweets, immersing you in the full Halloween atmosphere ▪️ Step into the shoes of a Hogwarts student and experience an immersive Halloween night in the wizarding world\n\nDark forces emerge ▪️ The Dark Mark, symbol of the dark forces, appears throughout the studio ▪️ Death Eaters materialize in multiple locations ▪️ Dementors lurk deep in the Forbidden Forest ▪️ The \"dark\" world Harry Potter fought against is brought to life in a thrilling, immersive way he Great Hall under dark magic, Dementors in the Forbidden Forest, Death Eaters hiding in the shadows—this is a special Halloween experience made for Harry Potter fans. This fall, visit the Tokyo studio and embark on a true Dark Arts adventure

The 2026 Japan fall foliage schedule is out, and peak viewing in Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya will be slightly later than in past years. Below are each city’s maple and ginkgo highlights and timing. ⏰ Time: maples peak around Nov 29, ginkgo around Nov 26 🍁 Tokyo maples and ginkgo ✨ Highlights: • Rikugien Gardens: colors start in late November, with special night viewing. • Meiji Jingu Gaien: ideal for ginkgo viewing from late November. 🍁 Osaka maples and ginkgo ✨ Highlights: • Osaka Castle Park: the moat and main keep begin to color from late November. 🍁 Nagoya maples and ginkgo ✨ Highlights: • Korankei gorge: a must-visit in the Tokai region, with approx. 3,000 maple trees lining the Tomoe River. • 71st Korankei Autumn Leaves Festival: Nov 1–30, Mt. Iimori is illuminated daily from sunset to 9:00 PM. 💡 Travel tip: days are short in the fall, with early sunsets, so plan outdoor activities during daylight. Late November to early December is the best overlapping window to see foliage across all three cities. ⏰ Time: maples peak around Nov 29, ginkgo around Nov 26 Visit Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya to soak in the romantic beauty of fall maples and ginkgo!

A must-see free winter nightscape in Tokyo. The Marunouchi Naka-dori Christmas illuminations switch on from Nov 12 and run through Feb 14 next year. About 1.2 km of the street is lit by nearly 900,000 champagne-gold LED lights, sparkling nightly from 4:00 PM–11:00 PM. Warm, soft champagne-gold lights stretch along the avenue, reflecting off the modern buildings around Tokyo Station. For shoppers, it’s not just a visual treat—you can browse high-end boutiques while enjoying a river of lights down the entire street. In short: shop and take in the night views, with free admission. Travel tips ✔️ Lighting hours: daily 4:00 PM–11:00 PM (covers shopping and dinner hours) ✔️ Duration: mid-November through mid-February next year, with a generous timeframe ✔️ Convenient location: 5 mins on foot from JR Tokyo Station, Marunouchi South Exit ✔️ Free to visit: lights are free to enjoy; spending in the malls is optional Find a Tokyo memory for this winter amid a sea of champagne-gold lights.

On November 3, 2026, Sannomaru Shozokan (The Museum of the Imperial Collections) opened in grand style within the Imperial Palace East National Gardens in Tokyo, Japan. Its exhibition space has expanded to 8 times its original size, and all 30 paintings from Jakuchu’s Colorful Realm of Living Beings are shown together, making it a must-visit for culture and art lovers. 🎨 Gallery highlights The collection features many masterpieces from the history of Japanese art: a Tang-dynasty copy of Wang Xizhi’s calligraphy, Kano Eitoku’s National Treasure Chinese Lions folding screens, and Ito Jakuchu’s celebrated series Colorful Realm of Living Beings. For the opening, all 30 paintings from Jakuchu’s series are on view, the headline highlight. Come to Sannomaru Shozokan (The Museum of the Imperial Collections) to experience the unique allure of culture and art!

On November 28, 2026, the Christchurch–Tokyo round-trip route resumes, with Air New Zealand operating 3 flights per week. 🛫 Outbound: NZ051 Departure: 12:35 PM, Christchurch International Airport Arrival: 8:10 PM, Narita International Airport 🛫 Return: NZ052 Departure: 9:40 PM, Narita International Airport Arrival: 12:50 PM (+1), Christchurch International Airport (All times are local.)

On November 16, 2026, the Riyadh–Tokyo, Japan round-trip route launches, operated by Saudia with 3 flights per week. 🛫 Outbound: SV824 Departure: 10:35 PM, Riyadh, King Khalid International Airport Arrival: 3:00 PM (+1), Tokyo, Narita International Airport 🛫 Return: SV825 Departure: 9:30 PM, Tokyo, Narita International Airport Arrival: 5:25 AM (+1), Riyadh, King Khalid International Airport (All times are local.)

Tokyo’s signature winter scene is back. From Nov 5–Dec 25, Roppongi Hills hosts "ROPPONGI HILLS CHRISTMAS 2026." The 400m-long Keyakizaka-dori is illuminated with approximately 970,000 "SNOW & BLUE" white-and-blue LEDs, transforming the entire street into a dreamy silver world. The classic photo spot is on the slope, where the sea of lights stretches toward Tokyo Tower. The light trail and the tower align in the same frame, creating one of the most photogenic winter night scenes in Tokyo. In addition, a Christmas market runs from Nov 21–Dec 25. The German traditional Christmas craft shop "Käthe Wohlfahrt" will have a stall, and there will be 10 German food vendors serving mulled wine, sausages, and stollen. The illumination is free. No reservation or ticket is required. It’s just a few minutes’ walk from Roppongi Station, so it’s easy to add to any Tokyo itinerary. If you want to visit the market as well, it’s best to go after Nov 21. 💡Travel tips ⏰ Lighting hours: 5:00–10:00 PM. Hours on the first day may change. ⭐ Christmas market: Nov 21–Dec 25. The dates do not fully overlap with the illumination period. 💰 Food and shopping in the market are charged separately. Prices are subject to on-site listings. 🚇 Transportation: Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line "Roppongi Station," approx. 5 mins on foot; Toei Oedo Line "Roppongi Station," approx. 4 mins on foot; "Azabu-juban Station," approx. 5 mins on foot If you’re in Tokyo this winter, set aside an evening for Keyakizaka.

Tokyo and the surrounding area offer many lesser-known attractions for fall foliage, from Japanese gardens to gorges and mountain forests—something for every traveler. 🍁 Rikugien Gardens 📍 Location: Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo • A hidden fall-foliage haven in a traditional Japanese garden. • Ponds, stone bridges, and artificial hills harmonize with the autumn colors. • Leaves reflected on the water create a distinctive atmosphere. 🚗 Transportation: JR Yamanote Line or Tokyo Metro Namboku Line to Komagome Station, about a 7-minute walk. 🍁 Mitake Gorge 📍 Location: Ome, Tokyo • Fall colors along the forests and streams of the Tama River. • A natural landscape where clear waters weave between woods on both banks. 🚗 Transportation: From Shinjuku, take a JR Chuo Line train toward the Ome area, then transfer to the JR Ome Line to Mitake Station. 🍁 Oishi Park (Lake Kawaguchi) 📍 Location: Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi Prefecture • Views where the lake, Mount Fuji, and fall plants come together. 🚗 Transportation: From Shinjuku, take a highway bus or train to Kawaguchiko Station, then board a local bus to the Oishi Park area. 🍁 Nagatoro 📍 Location: Nagatoro, Chichibu District, Saitama Prefecture • Arakawa Gorge and the Iwadatami rock formations. • Riverside walking paths ideal for easy outdoor trips. 🚗 Transportation: From Ikebukuro, take the Seibu Line toward the Seibu-Chichibu area, then transfer to local rail based on your itinerary. 🍁 Hatonosu Gorge 📍 Location: Okutama, Nishitama District, Tokyo • Valleys, streams, and layered forests. • On sunny days, the river and mountain colors are especially vivid. 🚗 Transportation: Take the JR Ome Line to Hatonosu Station. 🍁 Showa Kinen National Park 📍 Location: Around Tachikawa and Akishima, Tokyo • Fall scenes featuring ginkgo, deciduous trees, and seasonal flowers. • Ideal for a half-day, slow-paced visit and photos. 🚗 Transportation: From JR Tachikawa Station, walk to the Tachikawa Gate of Showa Kinen National Park. 🍁 Koishikawa Korakuen Garden 📍 Location: Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo • A classical Japanese garden with an autumn ambiance. • Ponds, bridges, and a landscape-style setting suited to a quiet stroll and architectural photography. 🚗 Transportation: A short walk from JR Sobu Line Iidabashi Station or Suidobashi Station. 🍁 Mount Takao 📍 Location: Hachioji, Tokyo • Mountain forests with vibrant, changing colors. • Choose the cable car or chair lift to suit different fitness levels. 🚗 Transportation: From Shinjuku, take the Keio Line to Takaosanguchi Station. 💡 Travel tips: Wear comfortable hiking shoes; some attractions are ideal for light outdoor activities. Traveling off-peak helps you avoid crowds and enjoy better views. Come to Tokyo and the surrounding area to unlock these stunning, lesser-known fall foliage attractions!

Tokyo amusement park:YOMIURILAND will host the 17th Jewellumination 2026 from October 29, 2026–April 4, 2027, themed "LIGHT is LOVE" to celebrate the vitality of green life and the beauty of harmony with nature. This season’s sub-theme, "Growing Light," uses light-and-shadow art to portray plants sprouting, growing, and unfurling their leaves, conveying the ideas of growth, harmony, and healing. 💎 Green gemstone-themed light show This season debuts a new green palette inspired by gemstones, symbolizing the precious energy of growth and nature. The light show is produced by internationally renowned lighting designer Motoko Ishii and, set against Tokyo’s sweeping night views, creates the Kanto Region’s largest jewel illumination spectacle. 🏞 Grand Sanctuary During the light show, visitors can walk through Pool WAI’s popular attraction "Grand Sanctuary," explore new installations and photo angles, and experience the unique interplay of light and space. ⏰ Business hours: 4:00 PM–8:30 PM (times may vary by period) 💡 Travel tips: The light show uses green electricity and encourages eco-friendly travel. We recommend planning your itinerary in advance based on the opening hours. Visit Tokyo amusement park:YOMIURILAND and experience a magnificent world where the green theme meets the art of light!