The rhythmic beat of drums and the energetic chants filled the streets of Kagurazaka on July 28th and 29th as the Awa Odori dance festival returned as part of the vibrant Kagurazaka Matsuri. This year, twenty “ren” (dance teams), including the local favorite Kagura-ren, participated in the lively celebration. Originating in 1972, the Kagurazaka Awa […]
Tokyoites can finally breathe a sigh of relief as the Japan Meteorological Agency officially declared the end of the rainy season, or “tsuyu,” on July 18th. This year’s rainy season, which began on June 21st, lasted 27 days, a shorter duration compared to the previous year. While shorter, this year’s rainy season brought a significant […]
Tokyo Daijingu Shrine, a popular Shinto shrine near Kagurazaka, held its annual Tanabata prayer festival on July 7th, marking a return to public participation after pandemic restrictions. Tanabata, also known as the Star Festival, is a traditional Japanese celebration where people write their wishes on colorful strips of paper called “tanzaku” and hang them on […]
Red Hot Chili Peppers recently set Tokyo Dome ablaze not once, but twice, as part of their massive 127-show world stadium tour. The band kicked off their global journey back in June 2022 and is set to wrap it up at the end of July this year. Lucky for Japanese fans, Tokyo was one of […]
Fashionistas rejoice! Harajuku’s got a shiny new complex: Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harakudo (Tokyu Plaza OB). This dazzling spot, opened on April 17, offers a retail, dining, and cultural fusion. Think sleek architecture, high-end brands, and hidden gem stores. Foodies will love the top-floor restaurants with city views, while art lovers can explore dedicated gallery spaces. More […]
The wait is over! Tokyo’s iconic cherry blossoms, the symbol of spring’s arrival, have finally reached their peak bloom, painting the city in a cascade of delicate pink and white. This year, however, Mother Nature kept us in suspense a little longer. While the usual blooming period arrives in late March or early April, the […]
