The Best Things To Do in Tokyo This Month: August 2025

Kimono Masterpieces with Yuzen Dyeing Exhibition

The Kimono Masterpieces with Yuzen Dyeing exhibit at Marubeni Gallery will feature yuzen-dyed pieces including kimono and Edo-era scrolls. 

Taro Gomi Picture Book World Exhibition

Explore the world of picture books at the Picture Book World Exhibition featuring Gomi Taro, author and illustrator of over 400 books.

© Moe Nakamura / Pola Museum Annex

Moe Nakamura Solo Exhibition: Connect Connect

Known for her distinctive sculptures fashioned from logs of camphor wood, Moe Nakamura conveys a unique blend of whimsy, warmth and nostalgia through her works. The “Connect Connect” exhibition at the Pola Museum Annex comprises both wooden carvings and two-dimensional pieces. It explores the general theme of connections in various forms, particularly in relation to the ideas of art and emotion, and of memory and the future. Nakamura contemplates the impact the pandemic had on the way we connect with one another, and how it reaffirmed the importance of community.

esc: Clothing Store Escape Room Experience

Conceptual clothing brand Tokiqil and Parco Games have collaborated to create Esc, an escape room game and shopping hybrid attraction.

Aki Sasamoto's Life Laboratory

Explore Aki Sasamoto's 20-year journey in Laboratory, blending sculpture, performance and video at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo.

Collage of Artworks featured in Lai Lai Wang Wang | © KOSAKU KANECHIKA

Kosaku Kanechika Group Exhibition: Lai Lai Wang Wang

Kosaku Kanechika’s Kyobashi location presents a group exhibition in collaboration with Hirano Kotoken, a leading dealer of Chinese and Korean ceramics. “Lai Lai Wang Wang” — meaning “back and forth” in Chinese — highlights an array of antique pieces from China and Korea alongside contemporary works by Yutaka Aoki, Junko Oki, Takuro Kuwata, Ataru Sato, Miwa Kyusetsu XIII, Noritaka Tatehana, Ana Benaroya and Dan McCarthy. It’s a rare opportunity to see ceramic works from the Han and Tang dynasties of China, including sculptural pieces. This will also mark Kosaku Kanechika’s first display of works by New Jersey-based painter Benaroya, who focuses on female perspectives, desires and queer sensibilities through depictions of bold, muscular physiques. 

“Dwelling Places for Brazen Fruit” (2025) © Mannat Gandotra

Mannat Gandotra Exhibition: Containers of Madness

Mannat Gandotra, an up-and-coming painter born in India and based in the UK, presents her vibrant, energetic compositions in a solo exhibition. “Containers of Madness” refers to the idea that visual elements confined within the frame of the canvas are constantly striving to transcend boundaries. Along the way, they collide with and repel one another, while maintaining a precarious sense of harmony. According to Gandotra, her dynamic style stems from an interest in jazz music and the concept of atonality; she is inspired by sounds that reject hierarchical tonal structures, allowing chords and harmonies to emerge unexpectedly within a progression. Ragamala, a genre of Indian miniature painting that captures the melodies and timbres of traditional music, also informs Gandotra’s language.

© Naoki Ishikawa

Naoki Ishikawa Photography Exhibition: Ascent of 14, 2001-2024

“Ascent of 14” showcases photographer Naoki Ishikawa’s incredible 23-year-long journey through the Himalayas. Starting with an Everest expedition in 2001 when he was 23, Ishikawa has scaled all 14 of the world’s greatest peaks. Along the way, he shot some breathtaking landscapes. Many of those scenes are being shown to the world for the first time.

60th Anniversary Gacha Gacha Exhibition

Gachapon, or capsule toys, have been a staple of Japanese pop culture. Marking the 60th anniversary of gachapon in Japan, the Marunouchi Building is hosting a special exhibition highlighting the evolution of the toys and some of the biggest names in the industry. 

Ando Teru Exhibition: The Sculptor of The Hachiko Statue

This exhibition revisits the sculptor behind Shibuya’s beloved Hachiko statue, marking 80 years since his death.

Leo Lionni: Creation of Picture Books Exhibition

A new exhibition in Tokyo explores the world of Leo Lionni, the renowned American-Dutch children's book author and artist.

Exhibition: World Fair in Japan 1970-2005

Architecture fans will delight in this deep dive into Japan’s Expo designs, from Osaka in the ’70’s to Aichi 2005’s eco-conscious pavilions.

The Fear Exhibition

The Fear Exhibition, at the Beam Gallery in Shibuya, explores fears and anxieties of the human heart. Focusing on both conventional and irrational fears, the exhibit is an opportunity for visitors to explore a wide range of phobias while also confronting their own fears.

Neo Heisei Retro Exhibition

Take a nostalgic step back in time into the Heisei era at the TBS Neo Heisei Retro Exhibition inside the Shibuya Seibu department store.

Kokeshi Art Exhibition

Tokyo Mokunavi invites guests to learn more about kokeshi, traditional Japanese wooden, dolls through their new exhibition.

Isao Takahata Exhibition: The Man Who Planted Japanese Animation

Explore the life and legacy of Isao Takahata, co-founder of Studio Ghibli, through rare art and materials from his iconic films, including Grave of the Fireflies, opening this summer at Azabudai Hills Gallery.

Escaping From Fatigue Exhibition

The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation is holding an exhibit exploring fatigue and the best strategies to combat stress.

Tove Jansson and the Moomins Exhibit

Celebrating the 80th anniversary of the beloved Moomin novels, the Mori Arts Center Gallery will host a special exhibit. 

Ooku: Women of Power in Edo Castle

Ooku: Women of Power in Edo Castle is a new special exhibition at the Tokyo National Museum running from July 19 to September 21 organized in cooperation with the Tokugawa Memorial Foundation. The exhibit features over 180 artifacts, connecting guests to the Empress Dowagers, concubines and maids of the shogunate.

Wanoakari x Hyakudan Kaidan 2025 - A Gathering of 100 Onis

Inside the Hyakudan Kaidan, 38 artists of various genres and specializations come together for an intricate display of traditional and contemporary art. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the exhibit, and the 2025 theme is "A Gathering of 100 Onis."

'Deep Space: To the Moon and Beyond' Exhibition

The Miraikan in Odaiba will host an exhibition on the latest space exploration technologies, building rockets and the future of space travel. 

Shinjuku Kabukicho Shunga Exhibition

"Shinjuku Kabukicho Shunga Exhibition" will display over 100 pieces of shunga art from the Edo period in a former Noh stage.

The Architecture of Sou Fujimoto: Primordial Future Forest

The Mori Art Museum will be exhibiting "The Architecture of Sou Fujimoto: Primordial Future Forest," a comprehensive overview of projects from architect Sou Fujimoto's design journey.

LEGO Festival Botanical Garden in Marunouchi 2025

The Lego Festival Botanical Garden in Marunouchi 2025 will run from August 1 to August 24. The event will have various workshops and exhibits for both children and adults alike to enjoy.

Nagaoka Fireworks Festival 2025

Held on August 2 and 3, the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival is a memorial service for those who died in the Nagaoka air raids of 1945, a display of gratitude to those who worked so hard for reconstruction and a wish for lasting peace. Bleacher seats are set up on both banks of the Shinano River so that the fireworks can be viewed from both directions. The width of the river and its banks allows the festival to use a large number of impressive shaku-dama — large-shell fireworks — for the display. The sho-sanshaku-dama fireworks, boasting a burst diameter of 650 meters, and the Reconstruction Phoenix Fireworks — a five-minute display stretching approximately 2 kilometers in length — are highlights of the spectacle.

Roppongi Hills Bon Odori

The Roppongi Hills Bon Odori festival will host performances, parades, games and food stalls to celebrate the summer season.

Dance in a Summer Festival: Minami-Koshigaya Awa Odori Experience Tour

This one-day-only tour will allow you to dance alongside Awa Odori dancers at Saitama's legendary Minami-Koshigaya summer festival.

66th Annual Koenji Awa-Odori Festival

The Koenji Awa-Odori 66th annual festival will take place on August 23 and 24 around the Koenji area, with big performances and street food.

Omagari Fireworks Festival 2025

Held in Daisen City, Akita Prefecture, the Omagari Fireworks Festival has been held since 1910, and runs as a competition of pyrotechnicians from all over Japan. The fireworks craftsmen are required to make their own fireworks and bring them to the competition, where judging will focus on design, color and creativity. The Prime Minister's Prize is also awarded in this prestigious competition. Spectators can enjoy completely different fireworks displays in the daytime and at night. Daytime fireworks in particular are rare in Japan, making this a fascinating competition in which beauty is decided not by light but by smoke. 

Doraemon Square - TV Asahi Roppongi Hills Summer Fes

The beloved cat-robot Doraemon is back at Roppongi Hills as part of the TV Asahi's Summer Fes event. You can find various activities and photo spots with Doraemon throughout the Roppongi Hills and at the adjacent TV Asahi building from July 19 to August 24.

Make Your Own Odori Geta at Fairfield by Marriott Gifu Gujo

Tokyo City View Star Festival in the Sky

Now for a limited time, Tokyo City View observation deck invites guests to come stargazing above the Tokyo metropolis. Inspired by tanabata, visitors can enjoy the venue's immersive experiences including a Milky Way photo spot and bamboo centerpieces filled with wishes. Enjoy the twinkles of the night sky with panoramic views from the deck. 

My Melody & Kuromi Anniversary Party at Sanrio Puroland and Harmonyland

To celebrate My Melody's 50th anniversary and Kuromi's 20th anniversary, Sanrio Puroland and Harmonyland theme parks will have new attractions, entertainment, photo spots, merchandise and food.

LuckyFes 2025: Japan's Fastest-Growing Music Festival

LuckyFes 2025, Japan’s fastest-growing music festival, returns from August 9 to 11 with more than 100 artists performing across four stages.

Jahari Stampley: Soul Family featuring Grammy-Nominated Artist D-Erania

Blue Note Tokyo welcomes back Jahari Stampley, a rising-star pianist. Stampley will be performing music from his second album, What A Time, along with his new single "To Be Alive" and unreleased songs. In a special two-night performance, Stampley will be accompanied by his mother, bassist and saxophonist D'Erania Stampley (also known as D-Erania).

Respect for Jazz Giants: Oscar Peterson 'A Centennial Celebration'

In honor of legendary jazz pianist Oscar Peterson’s 100th birthday, Blue Note Place in Tokyo presents "Respect for Jazz Giants."

TOKU Meets May Inoue: 'Premium' at Blue Note Place

Japan’s only vocalist and flugelhorn player TOKU reunites with acclaimed jazz guitarist May Inoue for a rare performance at Blue Note Place.

Sullivan Fortner - Piano Solo

Grammy-winning pianist Sullivan Fortner will be performing a one-night-only solo piano concert at the Cotton Club. 

Cécile McLorin Salvant Quartet

Cécile McLorin Salvant, three-time Grammy winner for Best Jazz Vocal Album, is coming to Tokyo. Salvant is making her comeback at Blue Note Tokyo, performing there for the first time in seven years.

Fievel Is Glauque Live at Blue Note Tokyo

Fievel Is Glauque, a jazz-pop duo with pianist Zach Phillips and vocalist Ma Clément, is making their Blue Note Tokyo debut.

LEO: Moments Within at Blue Note Place

Leading koto player Leo Konno (known as LEO), will be performing at Blue Note Place for a one-night-only event.

Kalapana: Timeless Voyage - 50th Anniversary Tour

Celebrating their 50th anniversary since their debut, the legendary Hawaiian band Kalapana is returning to Japan for a long-awaited visit.

Tokyo Love Hotels: A Loveho Biome @ HVEN

Tokyo Love Hotels is back for another evening of music and art at Hven Nakameguro on August 30 with installations and live performances.

Sanrio Puroland Neo Summer Matsuri

Sanrio Puroland theme park is hosting a special summer festival. Mixing retro and futuristic neon themes, the Puroland Neo Natsu Matsuri is bringing fun festival games, workshops, character greetings, seasonal menus and merchandise.  

One Piece Mugiwara Store Shinjuku Pop Up

The largest official One Piece merchandise store is opening inside the Shinjuku Keio department store for a limited time only.

Demon Slayer x Raku Spa Collaboration

Raku Spa, the bathhouse and spa chain, will be collaborating with the anime Kimetsu no Yaiba (Demon Slayer) featuring character merchandise, decor, food, drinks and even character-inspired baths.

Naruto Shippuden Shinobi Scout Caravan

Naruto Shippuden fans and prospective shinobi, here's your opportunity to train your ninja skills. The Naruto Shippuden Shinobi Scout Caravan at Shibuya Cast is an immersive pop-up anime event with attractions, photo spots and exclusive merchandise. 

© Sotsu, Sunrise

Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning- Exhibition

A special exhibition of the latest work in the Gundam series, Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuuX (Siege Ax) -Beginning-, is currently being held.

Operation Gundam R with WHG Hotels

The “Operation Gundam R with WHG Hotels” initiative features a massive Gunpla giveaway and the opening of special Gundam themed hotel rooms.

My Hero Academia Original Art Exhibition

The globally acclaimed manga series My Hero Academia is being honored with a special exhibition in Tokyo, celebrating creator Kohei Horikoshi's artistic journey and the series' conclusion after a remarkable 10-year run. This exhibition offers fans a rare opportunity to experience the evolution of one of Japan's most successful modern manga series up close.

Leiji Matsumoto Manga Exhibition

Leiji Matsumoto Manga Exhibition

The "Leiji Matsumoto Exhibition: A Journey of Creation" exhibit at Tokyo City View showcases more than 300 original drawings, including Matsumoto's early works and never-before-seen content from "Galaxy Express 999" and "Space Pirate Captain Harlock."

Ghibli 3D Sculpture Exhibition

In 2003, Tokyo was blessed with the Ghilbli 3D sculpture exhibition. Now, 22 years later, it is back and bigger than ever. Dive into the worlds of My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away and Pom Poko with full-scale sculptures from the films. You can even see the Savoia S-21 flying boat from Porco Rosso.

Kuroko no Basket x Round 1 Collaboration

Kuroko no Basuke, the basketball anime series, will be collaborating with Round 1 for exclusive food and drinks, merchandise and game rooms.

Sanrio Hanamaruobake Pop-Up Ice Cream Stand

Hanamaruobake, Sanrio's latest character, is hosting a pop-up ice cream stand from August 1 to August 14 on the rooftop terrace of Tokyu Plaza Harajuku Harakado. The event will have original ice cream flavors, cute photo spots, character meet-and-greets and new merchandise.

Le Pristine Tokyo and Nogizaka Shin Celebrate the Charm of Summer

A special between Dennis Kuipers, executive chef at Le Pristine Tokyo and Shinji Ishida, the owner-chef of Nogizaka Shin.

PANDORA x W Osaka: Afternoon Tea in a Jewelry Box

Luxury jewelry brand PANDORA is teaming up with lifestyle hotel W Osaka for the first time to host an afternoon tea, PANDORA Cafe @ MIXup.

Edo-mae Sushi and Kuheiji Sake Pairing Dinner at Roku Roku

For one night only on August 22, Roku Roku is hosting an Edo-mae sushi, Japanese sake and wine pairing dinner in collaboration with Kuheiji.

Clinton Street Baking Company Tokyo's 12th Anniversary Special

From August 23 until August 31, Clinton Street Baking Company Tokyo is celebrating its 12th anniversary with a special menu

The Strings by InterContinental: A Taste of Latin America!

The Strings Hotel Tokyo Intercontinental will host a one-night-only celebration with Venezuelan premium rum brand Ron Carúpano.

A Farm-to-Table Dinner at Tamba Wine

Fairfield by Marriott Kyoto Kyotamba invites hotel guests to an exclusive duck and wine dinner on August 30.

Sapporo Beer The Perfect Black Label Wagon Event

Sapporo's Perfect Black Label Wagon is touring at 13 stops celebrating their flagship draft beer around the country. Guests can enjoy Sapporo beer and other exclusive goods at the event.

Shake Shack x Human Made Collaboration

Shake Shack has teamed up with Human Made, a lifestyle brand founded by NIGO,  to release a collaboration collection and menu in select stores throughout Japan and Asia.

Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura Tokyo Summer Menu

Gucci Osteria has a new "Mediterranean and Japanese Summer" tasting menu, blending Italian and Japanese culinary traditions.

Asian Spice Afternoon Tea – A Fragrant Feast of Spices and Dim Sum

ANA InterContinental Tokyo is offering Asian Spice Afternoon Tea – A Fragrant Feast of Spices and Dim Sum at Karin Chinese Restaurant.

Jade Garden Hosts Executive Chef Wang Bin

Until August 31, Hyatt Regency Tokyo's Jade Garden is welcoming Executive Chef Wang Bin and his culinary team from Tongyuan 600.

Mesm Tokyo's Afternoon Exhibition Chapter 14: Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji, First Half

Mesm Tokyo is offering a special afternoon tea program titled “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji, First half” at its bar and lounge, Whisk.

Terroir Noto at The Jade Room + Garden Terrace

For the fourth instalment of its ‘Terroir Japan’ series, The Jade Room + Garden Terrace at The Tokyo Edition, Toranomon unveils Terroir Noto.

Mori no Beer Garden's 40th Edition

Mori no Beer Garden is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Enjoy an all-you-can-eat barbecue and an all-you-can-eat drinks menu.

WHG Hotels' Spice Up Your Morning Fair

A total of 28 WHG Hotels are holding a fair called "Spice Up Your Morning" from July 15 to September 30, 2025.

(c)Kristin Perers

Bills Spring-Summer 2025 Menu

The all-day dining restaurant Bills (stylized as bills) starts its spring-summer 2025 menu at all eight locations in Japan from April 22.

Mesm Tokyo's Bistronomy Lunch & Dinner Program: Ballet Cinderella 2025

Mesm Tokyo is offering a collaborative lunch and dinner program with the New National Theatre, Tokyo: Ballet Cinderella.

Hilton Tokyo Odaiba's BBQ Terrace Ablaze Is Open

Hilton Tokyo Odaiba's open terrace, Ablaze, offers a luxurious BBQ experience with panoramic views of Tokyo Bay and Tokyo Tower. 

Matcha Beer Garden

Restaurant 1899 Ochanomizu's Matcha Beer Garden event has an entirely tea-themed menu. Enjoy tea-infused alcoholic drinks, food and sweets.

Exit 8: Tokyo Metro Escape Room

Tokyo Metro is bringing the film everyone’s buzzing about to life — Exit 8 will be coming to train stations in Tokyo for a limited-time escape room event that blurs the line between underground transit and terror. From August 29 to November 3, players can step into the looping corridors of the movie’s world, scattered across real subway stations.

Katamari Damacy Pop-Up Collaboration Cafe

Step into the whimsical world of Katamari Damacy at its first-ever pop-up cafe in Shibuya Parco, featuring themed dishes and exclusive merch.

See the Goblet of Fire at Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo

From April 18 to September 8, 2025, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo celebrates the 20th anniversary of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.