The Best Events and Things To Do in Tokyo This Month: April 2024

Tokyo is alive every day of the week. There’s always something to see or do, whether it’s an exhibition, a live music gig, a pop-up shop or a seasonal limited edition item to try. We’ve rounded up some recommendations for the best things to do in Tokyo this month. For more detailed lists also check out our Best Things to Do This Week and Best Things to Do This Weekend.

All-month Long

Exhibitions, Seasonal Events and Limited-time Menus

1.
Fragments of the Future: Laboratory of Science and Design Exhibition

Design dreams of possible futures in this exhibition directed by engineer Shunji Yamanaka. Based around the theme of a more beautiful, surprising and engaging world, visitors can see prototypes, robots, and materials made by Yamanaka and others collaboratively. Showing what can emerge from combining design and scientific thinking, it asks, what could the materials of the future look like?

2.
Universal / Remote Exhibition

This March, the National Art Center, Tokyo is hosting an exhibition titled “Universal / Remote.” This exhibition seeks to examine the various phenomena through contemporary art, such as the way we live and work within it and the state of society in the years following the pandemic.

Eight solo artists and one artistic collective have come together to explore traditional themes in contemporary art, such as global capitalism and the digitalization of society. Featuring art from all over the world, from Asia to Scandinavia — including some works never-before seen in Japan — viewers are invited to decipher post-pandemic society and the state of the individual.

4.
MUCA Icons of Urban Art Exhibition

One of the largest museums of urban art in Europe, the Museum of Urban and Contemporary Art (MUCA), is bringing its collection to Japan for the first time this spring.

With over 60 valuable works, including a sculptural piece by Banksy, pieces by French street artist Invader, American artist Shepard Fairey and many more, the exhibition includes career-defining works by internationally renowned artists.

5.
A to Z: An Exhibition of The Former Residence of Prince Asaka

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum, the former residence of Prince Asaka. As a large Art Deco-style building completed in 1933, the museum oozes a glitzy modernist glamour rarely seen in Tokyo. Fans of art and interior design will enjoy this exhibition of the Prince’s home with a new focus on its materials, architectural techniques and historical anecdotes.

“BLEACH / Returns” ©2024, Tite Kubo / Shueisha Inc. All rights reserved.

6.
Bleach / Black, Blank & Bleed: Tite Kubo Exhibition at Azabudai Hills

A total of 10 new Bleach artworks created in 2024 are exhibited at at the Shueisha Manga-Art Heritage gallery in Azabudai Hills from March 8 to May 6.

The prints in the Bleach exhibition are divided into two categories: the “Real Color Collection” and “The Press,” a monochrome series. In the color collection there are images of Ichigo and friends dressed in kimono, Ichigo and members of the Gotei 13 squads, as well as the Arrancar villains. For the Gotei 13 image, they are dressed in Japanese delinquent-like outfits, while one image of the Arrancars shows them in corresponding white outfits. The monochrome prints show special art from the manga.

This is rare opportunity to see high-quality Bleach artwork selected by the manga artist himself, as well as purchase one of the very limited hand-signed prints.

Ⓒ 2024 Peanuts Worldwide LLC

7.
Traveling Peanuts Exhibition

Held at the newly refurbished Snoopy Museum Tokyo, the “Traveling Peanuts” exhibition is showcasing original drawings by Charles M. Schulz that depict Snoopy and the Peanuts gang during their travels. There are more than 40 original comic strips borrowed from the Schulz Museum. “Traveling Peanuts” begins on February 1, when the Snoopy Museum Tokyo reopens after being closed for three weeks. 

The museum now includes a new Snoopy Wonder Room, featuring various Snoopy goods, and a new light and video presentation in the popular Snoopy Room area, which is known for its approximately 8-meter-long giant statue of  Schulz’s most famous character.  The museum’s shop, Brown’s Store, meanwhile, has added various items that can’t be found anywhere else in the world.

Adjacent to the museum is the Peanuts Cafe, which now includes terrace seating and a new grand menu. 

Short Run Events

9.
Tokyo Midtown “Midtown Blossom” 2024

Creating a soothing space in the city, Tokyo Midtown invites visitors to luxuriate in the gorgeous spring flowers and wild herbs coloring this year’s “Midtown Blossom.”

There will be a Blossom Sensory Garden available to visit, with spring-inspired flowers and greenery, a Spring Walkway of around 100 cherry trees and a Spring Stroll Cafe.

The Blossom Cafe will also be available to visit, a relaxing open space to take in the natural beauty of the garden.

10.
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Anime Exhibition

Based on the popular anime Frieren, a special exhibition entitled Anime Sousou no Frieren – The Story Begins After the Adventure Ends” is scheduled to take place at Ikebukuro’s Sunshine City starting in late April. Famous scenes from the show will be recreated, alongside special video productions and photo opportunities with popular characters.

11.
Joyful Confusions: Mogu Takahashi Exhibition

Artist Mogu Takahashi’s paintings are happy and vibrant. She describes the process of drawing as “like writing a letter to someone dear” and playing with her inner child, and this is evidenced through her charming use of color and animal characters.

With her previous work including the children’s counting book Poodles Eating Noodles and a series of paintings with long-nosed dog heads that look like shoes, this exhibition at Muji sister brand Idee is sure to uplift.

12.
Alice in Wonderland 160th Anniversary Exhibition

Over 160 years ago, in 1862, a man named Charles Lutwidge Dodson improvised a story to tell to his friend’s children one afternoon during a long journey rowing up the river Isis in Oxford. Taking up the pen name Lewis Carroll, Dodson’s afternoon tale was eventually written up into a manuscript that would become Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.

To mark the 160th anniversary of this legendary book, approximately 250 original drawings from the archives of British Macmillan will be exhibited for the first time in Japan.

13.
Flower Garden at Yokohama Red Warehouse 2024

Designed to provide new and immersive experience, this spring the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse will be hosting a Flower Garden, to allow visitors a means to embrace the arrival of spring.

With a moonlight theme at night, and a fantastic view overlooking Yokohama Port during the day, this vast flower garden will boast over 20,000 flowers, and also includes dining and shopping options for visitors.

14.
Spring Festival at the National Museum of Modern Art

Spring is in bloom at the National Museum of Modern Art, where the MOMAT collection has some of the finest cherry blossom paintings on show. Find your gaze drifting into the stream of Kawai Gyokudo’s “Parting Spring” (a National Important Cultural Property, pictured above) while Kikuchi Hobun’s “Fine Rain on Mt. Yoshino” transports you to the famous Nara mountainside.

English tours of the exhibition will be running on select dates, as part of the MOMAT “Let’s Talk Art!” program. Visit the links below for more information.

15.
Domo! Exhibition by Scorpion Dagger

Scorpion Dagger (James Kerr) is a digital artist based in Montreal, Canada. He is best known for his short animations where he mixes cutouts from various paintings from art history to create a world where he comments on our modern age and pop culture. He regularly does commissioned art for clients such as The New York Times, Gucci, Adult Swim, Fender, etc. He’s also written and produced music videos for such bands as Brockhampton, Tommy Cash, Wolf Parade, Metz, Remo Drive and more.

Scorpion Dagger’s upcoming show at UltraSuperNew is largely inspired from his trip to Japan last summer.

16.
Shibuya Sakura Festival

This new festival sees the new Shibuya Sakura Stage building host a jam-packed schedule of arts and media until April 10.

With artists and collaborators including Yamaha, TV Asahi, VJ Yoichi Ochiai and fashion designer Haruka Hirai, alongside live markets and street food, check the schedule to see what’s going on each day.

17.
Cats, Owls and Mountains Exhibition at Aiiima Gallery, Hikarie

The latest work by the team at Aiiima Gallery, “Cats, Owls and Mountains” brings three of the most timeless and revered subjects in art to Shibuya this April.

Featuring work by renowned Ukrainian and Japanese female artists Zoia Skoropadenko and Kina Sato, the exhibition will explore these themes, bringing a touch of universal cuteness and good fortune to the art scene.

18.
Dino Safari 2024

On Art Tokyo is excited to announce “Dino Safari 2024,” an immersive live entertainment experience where lifelike dinosaurs will roam freely across a vast landscape.

Built upon extensive research, these mechanical marvels faithfully recreate the ecological dynamics of their ancient counterparts, offering spectators remarkable up-close encounters. There will also be navigators (safari guides) and rangers on hand to ensure both the safety and enjoyment of visitors throughout the experience.

19.
“Happy People” Group Show

For its first group show of the year, Night Out Gallery is happy to present “Happy People,” featuring French illustrator Cedric Pierre-Bez, painter Fragile, and Niigata-born painter Keiko Aikawa among fantastic artists.

The new group exhibition brings together anthropomorphic art through original characters, inspired by Japanese manga and vintage comics from abroad.

20.
Roppongi Hills Spring Festival 2024

Roppongi Hills Spring Festival will be held for three days this April, featuring traditional Japanese performing arts and other attractions.

Held at Ark Hills, visitors to the festival can food stalls offering spring menus, intercultural exchange spaces, workshops and play stalls for the whole family to enjoy.

The rooftop garden, usually closed to the public, will also be available for a limited time.

21.
Matisse Exhibition Afternoon Tea at Grand Hyatt Tokyo

In collaboration with the new Henri Matisse exhibition opening at The National Art Center, Tokyo, The French Kitchen at Grand Hyatt Tokyo has prepared an afternoon tea buffet inspired by the French visual artist’s exceptional deployment of color.

22.
Apothéose New Menu

23.
Tokyo German Village Winter Illuminations

Tokyo German Village’s illumination event is a union of light and music. Walk under a river of lights, spot the different characters sculpted in the fields and warm up with a cup of hot chocolate. This year’s theme is “Gulliver’s Travels.”

One-day Events

24.
Red Moon Party at Hven, Nakameguro

Following the success of their launch party in March, Hven (stylized as HV∃N) are proud to present Red Moon, an evening of live electronic music and a Butoh dance performance.

Come early and stay late for a special night on the dark side of the Meguro river. Liberate yourself on the dance floor to empowered, erotic and pure rave energy.

25.
Jeff Mills Presents The Trip – The World’s First Cosmic Opera

What happens on the cosmic journey toward a black hole? What is on the other side of the black hole? Legendary American DJ and composer Jeff Mills is set to explore these questions through a performance that appeals to the auditory and visual senses.

The DJ and producer is referred to as a “godfather of techno” for his contributions to the genre, first as part of the act Underground Resistance in the 1980s and subsequently his successful solo career. The Trip, which is the world’s first opera, offers an exciting way to experience another side of the pioneer’s work.

Through light, projections and sound, The Trip is not merely a DJ event, but a cosmos-themed immersive A/V show from the mind of Jeff Mills and the team behind Cosmic Lab.

First performed in France, in 2008, The Trip was then extended in 2016 at Hamarikyu Asahi Hall, Tokyo, with a video production by Cosmos Lab. This time, the work is brand new, with the theme of black holes marking the beginning of a spectacular project.

26.
Electroman Full Bloom: Lycoriscoris, Emergency Oxygen, Nao Right Now, Luke Hobbs

Electroman is a More Than Music and Emergency Oxygen event that brings the best of Tokyo’s underground electronic music scene. From dance music to downtempo through electro house or drum and bass, this event is an amazing party.

This time, Lycoriscoris, mostly known for his releases under global label Anjunadeep, will be doing his first show in Tokyo in two years, supported by Electroman’s classics Emergency Oxygen, Nao Right Now, and DJ Luke Hobbs.

27.
Asian University for Women Fundraising Event

Asian University for Women’s annual fundraising event raises scholarships for young women to help them unleash their dreams through the power of higher education and a global network. Prepare for an evening of inspiration, entertainment and connection, featuring raffles, auctions and incredible guest speakers.

Speakers will include two-time Oscar-winning producer and women’s empowerment advocate Guneet Monga, whose works include The Elephant Whisperers and The Lunchbox, as well as AUW alumna Savitri Prasad, who will share their fascinating journeys.

28.
Nerd Nite #57: Going Underground

Every month, Nerd Nite gathers smart speakers and a curious crowd to facilitate a thought-provoking discussion on a monthly-changing topic. This April, they’re going underground in search of volcanoes and fossils.

First, University of Tokyo professor Ryuichi Nishiyama will be exploring volcanoes using high-tech muography. Then University of Tsukuba paeleontologist Emma Dangerfield will be making sure that badgers get their moment in the limelight.

Both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks will be available.

29.
More Tokyo Music Live: RnB & Pop Night

In the heart of Shimokitazawa, the hub of Tokyo’s live music, More Than Music are hosting a regular “More Tokyo Music” event. Immerse yourself in a vibrant world of music every Wednesday from 7pm to 11pm. With carefully curated live performances, each week offers a unique sonic journey that spans genres and captivates all tastes.

This week’s lineup includes Eden Kai — ukulele and guitar virtuoso, a Pop/R&B vocalist, and an accomplished actor, as well as FiJA — contemporary R&B and soul singer-songwriter.

30.
More Tokyo Music Live: Prog Jazz & Funk

In the heart of Shimokitazawa, the hub of Tokyo’s live music, More Than Music are hosting a regular “More Tokyo Music” event. Immerse yourself in a vibrant world of music every Wednesday from 7pm to 11pm. With carefully curated live performances, each week offers a unique sonic journey that spans genres and captivates all tastes.

This week’s lineup includes Special Trio (progressive jazz), The Bagpipes (Funk), and Luke Hobbs (DJ).

31.
Music Live Show by MTM x Baroom — Math Rock

Baroom, an elegant livehouse run by Columbia Records, has a circular stage surrounded with plush red velvet seating for 100 and is designed with sound in mind, boasting some of the best acoustics in Tokyo. Take a break from the music in their secondary lounge with cocktails, lounge DJs, and a record library. This venue is booked by invite only and MTM offers events that are a rare chance to enjoy the Baroom.

The next MTM event at Baroom features three math rock bands: Paranoid Void, Suichu Spica, and VSQ Sport.

In the lounge, DJs include Luke Hobbs, Sofozor,  Maryne, and CoolThanksBro.

Use the code WKNDR on the More Than Music website to save 20% when reserving your tickets.

32.
Tokyo Amp: Broken Mirrors Musical Extravaganza

Featuring bands such as The Native Broadcast, The 27, Frozen Assets and more, head to Shibuya Nob for a day of high-energy performances by some of the most talented bands in the heart of Tokyo. From electrifying guitar solos to funky bass lines and soulful vocals, this event promises to provide the best of Tokyo’s vibrant music scene.

33.
Amp Broken Toys: “Gamuso Rocks!” Music Event

This April, Amp Broken Toys invites you for an evening of electrifying night of rock and soul at this explosive event: “Gamuso Rocks!” Unleash your inner rockstar and groove to infectious beats with a lineup of talented musicians, including Chikara The Boy, Akito’s Way and Brainicide.

34.
Talking to the Wind: Umi’s Japan Tour

After performing at Summer Sonic 2023, Japanese and American singer-songwriter Umi (stylized as UMI) will be performing her first solo tour in Japan this coming April. Fans can expect to see a new side to Umi as she will speak and perform in Japanese throughout her set in Japan.

Gaining popularity since releasing “Happy Again” in 2017, Umi’s R&B/soul, lo-fi alternative music has captured hearts of audiences across the globe. Now, with smash hits including “Love Affair,” “Remember Me” and “wherever u r” featuring V from BTS, her soothing music has a strong identity and has become a staple in the R&B community.

Get tickets to see Umi in Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka or Kyoto here.

Show Dates

• Tokyo Show – April 2
• Osaka Show – April 5
• Fukuoka Show – April 7

35.
Monthly English Book Club in Ebisu

Book-lovers across the city are invited to join the Tokyo Ebisu Book Club, who meet once a month for a discussion on a monthly changing book. The book club meets every first Monday of the month.

The April book is Popular Hits of the Showa Era by Ryu Murakami.

There are no requirements for joining, other than reading the book. This is a free event, but participants are asked to buy some food or drink as a thank you to the venue.

Book List

• May: Exit West by Mohsin Hamid
• June: Earthlings by Sayaka Murata
• July: How to Stand Up to a Dictator by Maria Ressa

37.
No Bro Comedy Show at Tokyo Comedy Bar

Celebrating women, non-binary, and trans folk of all genders, the Tokyo Comedy Bar’s monthly showcase returns with six or seven of the best comedians in Tokyo.

38.
The Gay Agenda: LGBTQ+ Comedy Night at Tokyo Comedy Bar

More Things To Do in Tokyo

• Tokyo Robots and Where to Find Them
• The Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo — The Making of Harry Potter Finally Opens
• Visiting Real Life Locations From Haruki Murakami Novels in Tokyo