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International Robot Exhibition 2017 (Nov 29-Dec 2): This event, held every other year at Tokyo Big Sight, features the latest and greatest in cutting-edge robotic technology. This event is free with preregistry, otherwise you’ll be shelling ¥1,000 for admission at the door.
Tokyo Comic Con (Dec 1-3): Get ready for Tokyo’s second-ever Comic Con! Affiliated with Silicon Valley Comic Con, this event at Makuhari Messe will have cosplayers, an artists’ alley, and exhibits with props and costumes from notable films. Note that the ticket price is not so cheapo, ringing in at 3,200 yen.
Chichibu Yomatsuri (Dec 3): See one of Japan’s biggest (top 3) nighttime float parades dazzle the Chichibu area. The event takes place around the traditional 2000-year-old Chichibu Shrine and boasts a rare chance to see fireworks in the wintertime.
Museum of Modern Art – Free Admission Day (Dec 3): Head to the MOMAT this Sunday and bypass the 430-yen admission fee. The collection currently on exhibit “presents trends in modern and contemporary Japanese art from the 20th century.”
Shibuya Street Dance Week (Dec 3): Love the art of dance? Then then Shibuya Street Dance Week event is for you. There will be performances at the main stage at Yoyogi Park, plus dance battles and workshops. And it’s not just for spectators, everyone is welcome to participate, so bring your dancing shoes and your best moves.
Jingugaien Itcho Festival (Nov 17-Dec 3): With colorful autumn leaves ablaze, you’ll want to head to Icho Namiki Avenue where the numerous and intensely yellow gingko trees are star. Plus, tons of food stalls will be set up for your grazing pleasure. For more spots to see some autumn leaves in Tokyo, check out our full guide.
Autumn Evening Illuminations at Rikugien Garden (Nov 18-Dec 6): The famously beautiful Edo-period gardens of Rikugien will be illuminated until the 6th of December, from sunset to 9pm daily. The gardens are known as one of the best spots for autumn foliage viewing, so it’s a perfect for an evening stroll.
Christmas Illuminations: Christmas season in Japan is already upon us with myriad light-up festivals taking place all over the city. There are plenty to choose from, with some running until February 2018, and some finishing on Christmas Day—so be sure to note the end dates. With new themes, music accompaniments and increasingly impressive displays every year, you’re sure to enjoy what the bright city streets have to offer.
Christmas Markets: With the holidays right around the corner, the Christmas markets in Tokyo are the perfect way to spend the weekend. Soak in the festive atmosphere, sip on a spiced drink and pick up a Christmas gift or two.
