Happiness is … rice, pretty lights and lots and lots of tofu (er, for the granola cheapo, anyway).

If you’re into perfume, the talk by world-famous fragrancier (as far as we know, that is a real word) Aurélien Guichard might be a good way to start the weekend. He’ll be doing his thing twice this Friday afternoon/evening at Tokyo Midtown, as part of the launch of Issey Miyake’s new perfume. While a bottle of the stuff might not be cheapo-friendly, the talk is (plus the accompanying refreshments) … and hey, a cheapo can dream!

Another worthwhile event at Tokyo Midtown is Kome: The Art of Rice– an exhibition that explores the role of Japan’s staple food in its culture.  If that makes you hungry, head down to the Oyama Tofu Festival. While it’s a little out of the way, it’s bound to be awesome, with a tofu-eating challenge, a massive tofu-making pot, a chance to make some yourself, and of course heaps of the bean curd goodness on sale.

If that doesn’t make you happy, perhaps the Happy Day Tokyo festival at Hibiya Park will. With two days of art stuff, talks, films, fitness stuff and food, you’re bound to find something that will make you smile.

This weekend is your last chance to see the Daiba Memorial Tree and VenusFort illuminations over on the Odaiba side of town – once these lights are off, winter is (un)officially over.

You can also still catch the plum blossoms – Yoshino Baigo is a super spot for that, but you’re bound to find some in your local park too. You might even see some early sakura (cherry blossoms) – see our special on that next week!