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Photo by jpellgen used under CC

Mukojima-Hyakkaen Garden Moon Viewing (Oct 3-5): Start your weekend early with a spot of moon watching. It’s an autumn tradition (and a great excuse to have a picnic) at the beautiful Mukojima-Hyakkaen Garden in Hikifune. Sit back and listen to the sounds of the koto, or partake in a tea ceremony or lantern painting.

Photo by Sylvia Jeffriess used under CC

Tokyo Art Book Fair (Oct 5-8): Head down to Tennozu Isle to browse for bargains at Asia’s biggest art book event. Expect 300+ exhibitors and a wide range of workshops, presentations, screenings and other fun activities.

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Tsukiji Autumn Festival (Oct 7-8): Experience Tsukiji Fish Market at its best. Join half of Tokyo for fresh seafood and other local delights, ample beer and other booze, and a chance to learn a range of different culinary techniques. If you haven’t been to the market before, read our 10 tips before you go.

Photo by Ys [waiz] used under CC

Railway Festival (Oct 7-8): Fun at Hibiya Park for kids of all ages (even those in the 50+ range). Learn about Japan’s rail fleet, see exhibits by major train companies, enjoy musical performances, and keep an eye peeled for Thomas and friends.

Photo by Soph used under CC

Fukuro Festival (Oct 7-8): The west side of Ikebukuro Station plays host to part two of the legendary Fukuro Festival—one of the biggest events in the area. Expect parades of mikoshi (portable shrines), taiko drumming, lion dances, music, dancing and more.

Photo by Zengame used under CC

Yanaka Matsuri (Oct 7-8): A laid-back little festival that takes place across the old district of Yanaka. There’ll be music and dance, games, a bazaar and more—spread among the Hatsune no Mori square, Yanaka Beer Hall and Bakery, the area’s cemetery and other unusual venues.

Photo by Ran Zwigenberg used under CC

Jiyugaoka Megami Matsuri (Oct 8-9): This Goddess Festival attracts nearly 500 000 visitors a year—which should be a good indication that it’s worth checking out. See top Japanese musicians, sip wine, and shop for bargains at the local stalls.

Alcohol
Photo by Toshihiro Ohtake used under CC

Mt. Takao Beer Mount (Until Oct 15): There’s still time to have a brew (or three) at the beer garden on Tokyo’s favorite mountain (hey, Mt. Fuji is in another prefecture). Hike or take the cable car up and then make the most of an all-you-can-eat-and-drink buffet.

Autumn Rose Festival (Oct 7-22): Flower lovers will want to check out early blooms at the Kyu-Furukawa Gardens—renowned for their extensive rose collection. Spend a morning strolling around the 20th-century Western-style garden and have your camera ready for the exquisite sights.

And that’s not all that’s happening this weekend! For details on the Setagaya Bread Festival and other ways to keep busy, head over to our Events section.

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