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Tokyo events for Monday, March 11 to Sunday, March 17, 2019

This week brings our popular book exchange meet-up, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, a tofu festival and the beginning of cherry blossom–themed events.

Suggested Activity
Become a Samurai in Tokyo
Who doesn't want to swing a sword and emulate the warriors of feudal Japan? Experience being a samurai for yourself in one of the coolest activities in Tokyo. During your intimate lesson, you’ll get to dress up in a samurai outfit and train with a traditional katana (single-edged samurai sword)!
Photo by Toru Tazura (Irish Network Japan)

Tokyo English Book Exchange #8

Meet up with fellow bibliophiles for Tokyo Cheapo’s 8th English Book Exchange. Come with at least one book to swap, then grab a drink and mingle. Who knows what printed treasure you might find!

Tom Odell – Solo Piano Performance

British singer-songwriter Tom Odell, whose most famous hits include ‘Another Love’ and ‘If You Wanna Love Somebody’, will be performing live at Shibuya Stream Hall.

“I Love Ireland” Festival and St. Patrick’s Day Parade

St. Paddy’s Day celebrations will take place this weekend around the Harajuku-Omotesando area. Yoyogi Park will host a themed festival where Irish food and drink will be on offer. At 1pm on Sunday, the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade will take place along Omotesando Street.

Tokyo Koenji Awa Odori Experience

Experience the traditional Awa Odori song and dance. Watch a performance, then try it out yourself as the pros show you the moves.

The Oedo Antique Market

Japan’s biggest outdoor market is a great spot for finding unique souvenirs, decorating your apartment on a shoestring, or even just strolling around outdoors. The market will be canceled in case of rain through, so keep an eye on the forecast.

Oyama Tofu Festival

A tofu-centric festival sounds about right for Japan, doesn’t it? Just under 1.5 hours from central Tokyo is the Oyama Tofu Festival in Isehara where you’ll find a speed-eating contest, a giant tofu-making machine, and various stalls selling variously prepared tofu dishes.

Nihonbashi Sakura Festival: A Digital Gourmet Wonderland

As sakura season gears up, so the cherry blossom events begin. This festival, in Nihonbashi, is for those looking for an eclectic sakura experience. Trade in the real thing for the astonishing variety of cherry blossom-themed installations.

Washi Candle Garden

The students of Tama Univeristy host the annual Washi Candle Garden at Tokyo Midtown in remembrance of the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami. Each paper lantern has a message of support to the people of the affected area. The event is part of the school’s We Love Japan Project.

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