New In Tokyo Archives - Savvy Tokyo

Daiso Must-Haves For Christmas

Kerri King — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Daiso is one of the best places in Japan to stock up on Christmas essentials without blowing your budget in December. From festive decor to DIY craft kits and adorable pet outfits, their seasonal range is huge, affordable and honestly way better than you’d expect from a 100-yen store. Here are some of the standout items worth grabbing this year.

Chocolate Icing Decorative Pens

These chocolate icing pens are an absolute must-have if you are planning to decorate gingerbread houses or Christmas cookies this year. They set quickly, taste delicious and Daiso has a huge selection of colours to choose from. Pro tip: Warm the tube in a mug of hot water before opening. It allows the chocolate to flow smoothly, resulting in cleaner designs.

Price: ¥108
Store: Daiso (Similar items can be found at supermarkets and other 100 yen shops)

Christmas Nail Decorations

Daiso is a go-to spot for DIY nails in Japan and its Christmas lineup this year is genuinely adorable. Tiny nail art parts made from polyresin and zinc alloy (perfect for adding dimension to festive designs) and Christmas-themed gel nail stickers in tartan prints or sparkly white are available this year. It’s an easy, affordable way to add a festive touch without booking a salon appointment.

Price: ¥110
Store: Daiso (Similar items can be found at other 100 yen shops)

LED Decoration Lights

Daiso’s LED light range is one of the best budget-friendly options for festive lighting. There are many options, including warm white strands, multicoloured sets and fun seasonal shapes like stars and snowflakes. All are battery-operated (batteries not included), which makes them easy to place anywhere without worrying about outlets or extension cords.

Price: ¥110-¥330
Store: Daiso (Similar items can be found at other 100 yen shops)

Pet Christmas Costumes & Toys

If you love dressing up your pets for the holidays, Daiso has some super adorable options this year. The Christmas tree ponchos and red knit-style outfits come in S, M, L and XL, making them suitable for everything from small cats to bigger pups. They also sell festive collars and small toys for both cats and dogs. They’re very cute and perfect for holiday photos.

Price: ¥110-¥550
Store: Daiso

Christmas Gift Bags

Daiso’s gift bag section might actually be unmatched. There are so many options for any gift type, including simple plastic bags, gorgeous fabric styles, foil bags, gusseted options and large paper bags. Designs range from classic Christmas patterns to kid-friendly Disney and Sanrio styles. Our family reuses the fabric gusset bags every year.

Price: ¥110-¥330
Store: Daiso (Similar items can be found at other 100 yen shops)

Santa Costumes & Accessories

What’s Christmas without a classic Santa outfit? Daiso has a decent range of Christmas outfits this year, including adult-size Santa costumes and Santa dresses, as well as kids’ versions that come as full outfits, dresses or Santa skirts. There’s even a classic Santa beard to complete the look. They’re fun, inexpensive and ideal for holiday photos or at-home festive fun.

Price: ¥110-¥550
Store: Daiso

Wreath-Making Supplies

If you love crafting, Daiso has everything you need to create your own Christmas wreath. You can choose from polystyrene or wooden wreath bases, then customise them with berries, ribbons, mini ornaments and whatever festive touches you like. Most basic supplies are available year-round, with seasonal variations such as pumpkins in autumn or snow-dusted pinecones in winter. With a few affordable pieces, you can put together a wreath that looks completely personalised.

Price: ¥110-¥220
Store: Daiso (Similar items can be found at other 100 yen shops)

Christmas Felt Baskets

These small felt baskets are an adorable must-have for festive gift giving. Designs include a gingerbread house, snowman and Santa, each sturdy enough to hold a few small treats or stocking fillers. They also double as cute desk or shelf storage for pens or craft supplies. This year, I filled one with Daiso winter warmers and a few festive goodies to make the perfect holiday gift.

Price: ¥220
Store: Daiso (Similar items can be found at other 100 yen shops)

Hata Chanmery (Kids’ Sparkling Drink)

No Japanese Christmas feels complete without chanmery, the kid-friendly sparkling “wine” that appears on shelves every holiday season. Daiso stocks the Hata Chanmery brand, which is not only delicious but far more affordable at ¥108, compared to the ¥400 price tag you’ll often see for other brands in supermarkets. It comes in both white and red varieties (regular and berry), and at 300ml per bottle, it’s the perfect size for Christmas celebrations with kids.

Price: ¥108
Store: Daiso (Similar items can be found at supermarkets and convenience stores)

Christmas Cushions

Daiso’s cute Christmas cushions are perfect for adding holiday cheer to any room. They’re very soft and affordable, making them perfect for mixing and matching throughout your home. Designs include Santa, gingerbread, Christmas tree and reindeer cushions, along with Daiso’s range of festive cushion covers if you prefer to dress up your existing pillows.

Price: ¥220-¥550
Store: Daiso

Christmas Felt Craft Kits

These small felt craft kits make a great hands-on activity for the holidays, adding a sweet, handmade touch to your Christmas decorations. Designs include polar bears, snowmen, reindeer and Santa. Each set takes around two hours to complete, making it perfect for a cozy afternoon at home.

Price: ¥110
Store: Daiso

Christmas Cards

Daiso’s Christmas card selection is very impressive this year. They have stocked up on everything from simple flat cards to pop-up designs, 3D scenes and glittered or embossed styles. They come individually wrapped with envelopes and many of the pop-up cards look far more expensive than their price tag.

Price: ¥110-¥220
Store: Daiso (Similar items can be found at other 100 yen shops, supermarkets, variety stores and stationery stores)

New Year Essentials

After Christmas, preparations for Oshogatsu (Japanese New Year) begin almost immediately and Daiso is one of the easiest places to pick up everything you need. Their seasonal section is packed with shogatsu kazari (traditional New Year decorations) such as wreaths, small decorative arrangements and zodiac ornaments for the Year of the Horse (2026). You’ll also find festive tableware, party supplies and plenty of small items to refresh your home for the holiday. Families can also prepare for otoshidama, the New Year tradition of gifting children money in decorative envelopes. Daiso carries a vast range, from zodiac-themed designs to kid-friendly options. Envelopes are available individually or in multi-packs, making it easy to stock up before the new year.

Price: ¥110-¥330
Store: Daiso (Similar items can be found at other 100 yen shops and department stores)

Other 100 Yen Shop Recommendations

Do you have any Daiso or 100 yen shop must-haves for Christmas? Let us know about them in the comments!

5 Coat Trends To Keep You Chic & Cozy in Tokyo This Winter

Tabitha Wilders — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 23:00:00 +0000

The city is transforming into a blend of frosty mornings, glowing illuminations and effortlessly stylish outerwear. It’s the season when fashion becomes as functional as it is expressive, and following the right coat trends can define your entire cold-weather look as winter settles over Tokyo.

Known as 冬支度 (fuyu-jitaku), the act of preparing for winter, this time of year invites thoughtful layering, plush textures and refined silhouettes that elevate even the simplest everyday outfit. Think oversized wool coats that sway with every step, padded jackets that feel like wearable duvets and tailored outerwear that adds structure to the season’s cozy chaos.

Whether you’re navigating icy commutes, strolling through festive markets or simply refreshing your winter wardrobe, these are the five coat trends keeping Tokyo stylish and snug this year!

1. Ultra-Long Coats

This season, ultra-long wool and wool-blend coats are making a statement, combining elegance with everyday functionality. Classic neutrals, such as black, gray and beige, dominate, but check and tartan patterns are also trending, reimagined in relaxed, cozy and polished designs that feel modern rather than preppy. For Tokyo women aiming for timeless style with a contemporary twist, these maxi coats are a must-have this winter.

Luxury: Wool Long Coat by Biyoma | ¥132,000

Budget: Chester Long Coat by ap retro | ¥6,990 (28% off ¥9,800)

Savvy Styling Tip

Maximize drama and elegance by wearing your ultra-long coat open over a sleek, monochrome outfit. Think fitted turtlenecks and wide-leg trousers. Add a statement belt to define your waist or create a flowing silhouette. Pointed ankle boots and a structured tote will elevate the look for both office and evening outings. Experiment with textures, like a soft cashmere scarf or suede gloves, to add subtle sophistication.

2. Scarf Coat

Scarf coats, featuring built-in scarves or attached wrap pieces, are having a major moment in Tokyo right now. Japanese fashion is highlighting statement outerwear that blends practicality with refined design, keeping you warm while looking effortlessly chic. From wrap-style scarf coats to sleek options like the Theory Wool Divide Scarf Coat, these pieces offer a modern, elegant silhouette that perfectly fits Tokyo women’s desire for versatile, stylish winter outerwear.

Luxury: Wood Divide Scarf Coat by Theory | ¥89,000

Budget: Wool Short Scarf Coat by Zara | ¥15,990

Savvy Styling Tip

Use the built-in scarf as the centerpiece of your outfit. Wrap it asymmetrically over one shoulder for an avant-garde street look or drape it neatly over a midi skirt and pair it with heeled boots for city elegance. Pair with slim leather pants or tailored culottes to balance volume. A pop of color in shoes or earrings will keep the ensemble modern without feeling heavy.

3. Lightweight Functional Coats with Smart Insulation

Japanese fashion trends are highlighting outerwear that blends practicality with high-performance design, offering warmth without heavy bulk. From sleek, minimalist silhouettes to sporty, technical styles, smart-insulated coats are not just practical. They’re a fashion-forward choice that signals an awareness of both style and sustainable, utilitarian design.

Luxury: Immix Jacket by Oros Japan | ¥28,500 (on sale from ¥68,000)

Budget: Puff Tech Long Coat Relaxed Fit by Uniqlo | ¥10,900

Savvy Styling Tip:

Play up the technical edge by mixing sporty elements with polished pieces. Layer over a cropped hoodie or knit top and wide-leg joggers, but finish with sleek ankle boots or loafers to avoid a purely casual feel. Incorporate metallic or reflective accessories like a belt bag or subtle hardware detailing for a contemporary, urban vibe. This coat is perfect for layering creatively without adding bulk.

4. Boa, Faux Shearling Coats

Cozy, tactile and effortlessly stylish, plush textures like boa and faux shearling coats combine warmth with modern design. From sleek, short styles to long, boa coats, they now offer polished silhouettes that appeal to adults seeking comfort without bulk. Lightweight yet insulating, and with versatile colors and shapes, boa coats are a must-have this season, offering a contemporary twist on winter layering.

Luxury: Faux Shearling Coat by Hyke | ¥68,200

Budget: Form Boa Jacket by KBF | ¥15,400

Savvy Styling Tip

Embrace texture contrast. Pair a plush boa coat with tailored trousers or a satin slip skirt to balance softness with structure. Add tactile accessories, such as a leather crossbody or knit beanie, to complement the coat’s cozy feel. For a chic weekend look, pair it with oversized cropped denim and platform boots, allowing the coat’s tactile texture to become the focal point of your outfit.

5. Leather Bombers

Making a strong mark on Tokyo street style this winter, leather bombers blend retro cool with modern sophistication. Far from a classic staple, leather outerwear, especially relaxed, oversized or mid-length cuts, is one of the hottest trends for 2025. From sleek blousons to reinterpreted bomber silhouettes, leather jackets are being celebrated as versatile, street-style relevant pieces that combine fashion-forward design with urban practicality.

Luxury: Reversible Mouton Coat by Prank Project | ¥165,000

Budget: Faux Leather Harrington Jacket by GU | ¥5,990

Savvy Styling Tip

Lean into the rebellious, urban vibe. Layer your bomber over a printed silk blouse or patterned knit for visual interest, and pair with straight-leg trousers or a pleated skirt to soften the edgy silhouette. Complete the look with chunky sneakers or leather loafers, and add minimal metallic jewelry to keep it sleek and refined. A crossbody bag with hardware details will tie the street-style aesthetic together effortlessly.

Which coat trends are calling your name this season in Tokyo? Are you drawn to bold textures, classic neutrals or modern silhouettes? Tell us how you’ll be layering up and putting your own twist on these city-ready looks in the comments below!

The Viral 3D Fruit-Shaped Ice Creams Are Finally Coming to Japan

Kerri King — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 23:00:00 +0000

The hyper-realistic 3D fruit ice creams you’ve seen all over TikTok and Instagram are finally coming to Japan. Already a hit across China, Southeast Asia and the US, these ultra-real fruit-shaped treats have earned global fan status for their eye-catching design, sorbet-style centres and wildly popular “cut-open reveal” videos. With Japan’s launch set for early December, they’re on track to become one of the most talked-about dessert releases of the year.

The Global Craze Behind Hyper-Real Fruit Ice Creams

These 3D fruit-shaped ice creams were already a full-blown global trend long before Japan announced its release, thanks to a few viral versions that blew up overseas.

1. Propitious Mango (China): The Original Viral Ice Cream

This is the one that started it all. Propitious Mango’s hyper-realistic mango-shaped ice cream spread across Southeast Asia and the US, usually selling for $5–$7 each.

2. 3D Fruit Ice Series

As the trend picked up, other manufacturers began releasing nearly identical versions in peach, strawberry, lemon and grape. These took off across Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan and Hong Kong, often sold in multipacks for $10–$12. These colourful lineups became Instagram Reels favourites thanks to their aesthetic “flavour collection” appeal.

3. Fruitae/Frukti Deluxe (New Zealand & Australia)

NZ and Australia then introduced their own branded sets using similar moulds but different recipes. Flavours included mango, peach, coconut and strawberry, priced around $5 each or $13 per pack. They weren’t as internationally famous, but they kept the trend alive across Oceania.

Where To Get Them in Japan

On December 1st, 2025, Japan is officially joining the global trend, with the brand 3Dフルーツアイス (3D Fruit Ice Cream), imported by Gold Star, who are known for bringing several Korean viral ice creams into Japan. The launch is surprisingly big, covering major convenience stores and supermarkets nationwide.

Here’s the confirmed release schedule:

From December 1

Don Quijote (nationwide)
AEON – Frozen section (nationwide)

From December 2

7-Eleven (nationwide)
FamilyMart (Kanto, Kansai, Chukyo)
Natural Lawson (Tokyo Metropolitan Area)

After December 8

Summit (Tokyo Metropolitan Area)
Mommy Mart (Saitama)
Seiyu (nationwide, excluding Hokkaido)

Pricing & Flavors

Although the official price remains unconfirmed, early shelf photos indicate a range of ¥500 to ¥550 per piece. Japan’s lineup will feature all five of the internationally popular flavours: mango, peach, grape, strawberry and lemon.

Finally, an international trend is landing in Japan before it’s over. And even as the temperature drops, these fruit-shaped ice creams feel like the kind of treat you can enjoy all year long. With their hyper-real look and refreshing centre, they’re set to become this winter’s “have you tried it yet?” moment.

Epidurals in Japan: The Growing Support For Pain Relief During Labour

Kerri King — Sun, 23 Nov 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Early this year, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government announced a subsidy of up to ¥100,000 to help cover the cost of epidural deliveries, which took effect on October 1, 2025. It marks the first time a major local government has acknowledged that pain relief during labour deserves real, practical support. That may seem routine in countries like the U.S. or Australia, but in Japan, epidurals have long taken a back seat in maternal care.

Seen for years as unnecessary, expensive or challenging to get, epidurals have remained out of reach for many women in Japan. But that perception is changing. As more women share their birth stories, support for better access to pain relief in labour continues to grow.

The Reality Of Pain Relief During Childbirth in Japan

Ideas about “natural birth,” endurance and ganbaru (pushing through difficulty without complaint) have long shaped expectations around labor in Japan. Many women grew up hearing that pain was simply part of becoming a mother, making pain relief seem unnecessary or even indulgent. These attitudes didn’t appear overnight; they were passed down through families, echoed in maternity classes and normalized within hospital culture.

As a result, 硬膜外麻酔 (koumakugai masui; “epidural anesthesia”) rates in Japan remain far lower than in many Western countries. In 2018, only about five percent of births involved an epidural. As conversations around pain relief grow and expectations slowly shift, that number is rising. By 2024, the Japan Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists reported usage had reached just under 14 percent. It’s a noticeable shift, though still well below the 70 to 80 percent reported in countries such as the U.K. and the U.S.

However, cultural attitudes are only one part of the story. Despite growing interest, the availability of epidural services in Japan is still limited. A national review found that out of more than 2,300 hospitals and clinics offering maternity care, only about 720 listed epidural services as an option. Even then, some hospitals could provide them only during daytime hours or when an anesthesiologist was on duty.

How Tokyo Is Expanding Access To Epidurals

Tokyo’s new subsidy is simple but meaningful. From October 1, 2025, residents who give birth at an approved hospital can claim up to ¥100,000 toward the cost of 無痛分娩 (mutsū bunben; “painless childbirth”) with the epidural procedure and anesthetic drugs.

To be eligible, you must:

Have registered your pregnancy with the local government in Tokyo and remain registered in Tokyo until you apply for the subsidy
Deliver at a 対象医療機関 (taishō iryō kikan; “approved medical institution”) published by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government
Receive epidural or combined spinal–epidural labor analgesia
Apply for the subsidy within one year of the delivery date.

Applications can be submitted via the Tokyo Welfare Bureau’s online form.

What Expectant Parents Should Know

If you’re considering pain relief during labour in Japan, the most important thing is to ask early. Not every hospital offers epidurals, and even those that do may only provide them during certain hours.

How To Ask Your Doctor Or Clinic

Keep it simple and direct. You can say:

無痛分娩はできますか (mutsu bunben wa dekimasu ka; “Do you offer painless delivery?”)
硬膜外麻酔は使えますか (komakugai masui wa tsukaemasu ka; “Do you provide epidurals?”)
夜間や週末も対応できますか (yakan ya shumatsu mo taio dekimasu ka; “Is it available at night or on weekends?”)
追加料金はいくらですか (tsuika ryokin wa ikura desu ka; “How much is the additional cost?”)

These phrases will help you find out what’s available at your hospital or clinic.

How to Find a Hospital That Offers Epidurals

In Tokyo

Start by checking whether your hospital is listed as an approved medical institution on the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s official website. These are the only facilities where you can receive the ¥100,000 epidural subsidy.

You can also ask your clinic directly. Many will display a notice stating 当院は対象医療機関です (toin wa taisho iryo kikan desu; “This hospital is an approved facility”).

Across Japan

Availability varies widely, so here are a few tips.

University hospitals and larger perinatal centers are your best bet.
Private clinics in major cities like Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka and Yokohama increasingly offer painless deliveries.
In regional or rural areas, options may be limited, so it’s best to start researching early in pregnancy.
Always ask about staffing hours, because many hospitals can only offer epidurals when an anesthesiologist is present.

Cost of Epidurals in Japan

For most people outside Tokyo, epidurals are not covered by National Health Insurance, unless they become medically necessary, such as during an emergency c-section. The typical additional fee ranges from ¥100,000 to ¥150,000, depending on the hospital.

A Quiet Shift in Japan’s Birth Culture

Pain relief during childbirth is slowly becoming a more visible and supported part of maternal care in Japan. Tokyo’s new subsidy won’t fix every challenge overnight, but it signals a fundamental shift. More parents are talking openly about their birth experiences, more hospitals are exploring how to expand services and the national conversation around labour pain is beginning to soften.

At the heart of all this is choice. You deserve to understand your options, ask questions and feel heard throughout your pregnancy and birth. Whether an epidural becomes part of your plan or you choose another path, what matters most is feeling informed, respected and supported as you welcome your baby into the world.

Feel free to share your birthing experience in our comment section! We’d appreciate you sharing it.

The Best Japanese Video Games With Strong Female Characters

Jessica Esa — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 23:00:00 +0000

While it has never been unheard of to have female protagonists in anime and Japanese video games, more often than not, female characters were relegated to secondary or “damsel-in-distress” type roles or were hyper-sexualized, usually aimed at the male audience.

Nowadays, video game developers are more aware that the gaming landscape is more diverse. According to the ESA’s Power of Play report, nearly half of all gamers (48  percent) are women. However, the industry still has a long way to go with only about 20% of published games featuring protagonists from underrepresented groups, a number that will hopefully grow in the coming years.

So, let’s celebrate some of the best Japanese video games in recent memory that have the most resilient female characters.

1. Ghost of Yōtei

If you’re a gamer, there’s a good chance you saw Ghost of Yōtei making headlines last year when it revealed Atsu as the new protagonist instead of the original male lead, Jin Sakai. While some fans reacted negatively, demanding Jin’s return or simply denying the existence of women samurai, others praised the fresh perspective and strong storytelling.

The game didn’t actually officially launch until last month, in October 2025, but now that it’s out, you can finally play as Atsu. She’s a fierce, emotionally scarred bounty hunter roaming the 1603 wilderness near Mount Yōtei with her wolf companion. Atsu’s narrative is her own—she’s a fully realized, capable and compelling hero whose strength, intelligence and independence drive the game.

Available on: PS5

2. Assassin’s Creed: Shadows

Assassin’s Creed: Shadows introduces Fujibayashi Naoe, a young female shinobi (ninja) assassin from the Iga Province navigating 16th-century Japan. Agile, clever and fiercely independent, Naoe uses stealth, parkour and combat to protect her home and people.

Sharing the spotlight with Yasuke, the powerful African samurai of historical legend, Naoe’s story is equally central and fully realized. Her motivations, moral choices and skills make her a standout lead, showing that a female character can carry an action-packed narrative with nuance and depth.

Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC, Steam

3. Atelier Yumia: The Alchemist of Memories & the Envisioned Land

Atelier Yumia centers on Yumia Liessfeldt, a young alchemist seeking to uncover the truth behind her mother’s death and the forbidden alchemy that led to it. Players explore a ruined continent, synthesize powerful items and grow Yumia’s skills while uncovering a profoundly personal story.

She is thoughtful, determined and capable, a modern JRPG heroine whose journey is as much about emotional growth as it is about exploration. Yumia proves that female protagonists can lead a story without falling into the sidekick or romanticized tropes so familiar in the genre.

Available on: PS5, PC, Steam, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One

4. Bayonetta 3

Bayonetta 3, released in 2022, continues the series’ over-the-top, stylish action and it is as unapologetically fun as ever. You play as Bayonetta, a confident witch with a flair for the dramatic and also get to control Viola, a new, younger protagonist with lightning-fast combat moves and clever parries. Both women carry the story through chaotic battles against otherworldly enemies, flipping the typical hero dynamics.

Available on: Nintendo Switch

5. Needy Streamer Overload

Needy Streamer Overload, a denpa (surreal/unsettling)-style visual novel, places you in the shoes of a female livestreamer attempting to grow her audience while managing her mental health, relationships and personal well-being. The gameplay combines decision-making, dark humor and genuine emotional stakes, portraying the pressure modern women face online in a compelling and relatable way. The protagonist is funny, flawed and determined.

Available on: Steam, Nintendo Switch

6. Nier: Automata

What made Nier: Automata such an overwhelming success is its post-apocalyptic theme and the big philosophical questions it poses about the nature of consciousness, love, purpose and the soul. The game is set in a strange, post-apocalyptic Earth that was ruined in a war between humanity and an invasion of alien machines. You play as 2B and her male companion, 9S. 2B is a female android sent to Earth to continue the fight against the machines in order to clear a path for the human resistance.

2B is such a compelling protagonist because of her stoicism in the face of these questions. It is her male comrade, 9S, who shows greater signs of affection and intimacy. 2B places a greater focus on the mission. The dialogue between these two is gripping and subverts the alpha male and meek female character tropes.

Available on: PS4 exclusive

7. Octopath Traveler

What is so refreshing about this game, in particular, is how it harks back to the Japanese role-playing games (JRPGs) of old, from the late 1980s and early 1990s, while also putting a modern twist on everything from combat mechanics to visuals. Octopath Traveler is a truly unique gameplay experience and one of the best in recent memory.

In terms of characters, it is immediately impressive that there is no one central protagonist. As the title suggests, there are eight equal protagonists with stories for you to explore and follow: four women and four men. Each one is a JRPG staple: warrior, mage, hunter, thief and so on. But it’s in the hunter where we see a real, capable female protagonist.

H’aanit is a woman hunter who speaks in a wonderful Shakespearean dialect. She is a standout character, arguably the strongest, toughest and bravest of the lot. A role that is almost always reserved for a man is instead given to a poetically spoken woman who will remind players of Princess Mononoke.

Available on: Steam and Nintendo Switch

8. Dragon Quest XI

One of the finest and most beautiful JRPGs in modern memory is Dragon Quest XI. It is a simple game that includes the video game basics: a straightforward plot and combat system, a mute protagonist, and a mission to save the world. It follows many of the predictable JRPG beats, yet comes off as delightfully original due to the love and detail put into it. No less, into its female characters.

Within your party of heroes, you have two stand-out women: Veronica and Jade. Veronica has fallen under a curse that has trapped her in the body of a child. She’s a powerful black mage full of wisdom, wit, and a sharp tongue. She is perhaps the most enjoyable character in the entire game, carrying all the best story beats and delivering the most engaging dialogue.

Jade is an exiled princess and the fiercest fighter in the game. While the protagonist is a guy with a sword, Jade is a talented acrobatic warrior brandishing a spear. She’s feisty, tough and savvy. An inspirational princess to say the least, and a far cry from your typical Disney affair.

Available on: PS4, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo 3DS

9. Metroid Prime

We need to talk about the underrated woman of gaming: Samus Aran. Samus is the woman inside the orange suit whom players take control of in the Metroid video games. She is a (usually) mute bounty hunter equipped with weapons and gear that make her the ultimate explorer, hunter, researcher and fighter.

Samus conveys a great deal through her actions, voiceless decisions and aesthetic, which gives her a much more distinct personality than her mute male counterparts, such as Zelda’s Link or Mario from Super Mario. Samus has a purpose, a stoic attitude and a cool head. She’s so well-defined without ever speaking, adding a much-needed spin to the way women are often represented in video games.

Available on: Nintendo Switch

10. Persona 5

Persona 5 is a majorly successful Japanese role-playing game released in 2017, in which you play as a group of high-schoolers who have the ability to invade the ‘hearts’ of crooked people and rewrite their evil urges. Essentially, you are purifying them. The team, dubbed the “Phantom Thieves”, goes after corrupt officials, mob bosses, thieves, charlatans and so on, in the hope of making the world a better place. Though you predominantly control the mute male protagonist through the story (codenamed Joker), it’s the female protagonists in the party who steal the show.

The women are by far the most three-dimensional characters in Persona 5. Futaba, for instance, is a young agoraphobe who torments herself over the death of her mother, suffering from PTSD and acute anxiety. As the story progresses, we witness the steps she takes to heal her mind, which is truly compelling. Futaba is just one of the many women in Persona 5 who make this such a meaningful and enjoyable video game.

Available on: PS3/PS4

The rise of these strong, complex female protagonists in Japanese video games shows just how far the industry has come—and how much further it can go.

Which female-led game is your favorite, or which character inspires you the most? Let us know in the comments.

This article has been updated for 2025.

Thanksgiving in Tokyo: 10 Spots To Gobble Down The Holiday

The Savvy Team — Sun, 09 Nov 2025 23:00:00 +0000

It’s only a month until Thanksgiving (if you’re celebrating the American way). While the holiday isn’t as popular in Japan as Halloween or Christmas, over the past few years, we’ve witnessed several eateries setting up special plans for guests who wish to celebrate the event. If you’re not roasting a turkey yourself this year, here’s a list of places in Tokyo that offer authentic Thanksgiving classics, almost on par with what you’d have back home.

1. Ruby Jack’s Steakhouse

This image is from a previous year; the 2025 menu may vary.

Ruby Jack’s Steakhouse is serving up a feast that’s both traditional and a bit different, all in a cozy, modern setting. Located just a quick walk from Roppongi Itchome Station, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal with loved ones this Thanksgiving. Start off with Yuke Wagyu Steak Tartare, Shrimp Cobb Salad, and Beni Haruka Sweet Potato Soup. Then, dive into the brined, slow-roasted jumbo turkey, served with pork and King Solomon date sausage stuffing, beef tallow-whipped mashed potatoes and bacon-tossed Brussels sprouts with cauliflower mornay. Don’t forget to leave space for dessert—a pumpkin flan pie with vanilla ice cream and maple, served alongside coffee, tea or herbal infusions.

Price: ¥11,000 per person
Date: Thu, Nov. 27-Sun, Nov. 30, 2025
Location: ARK Hills South Tower 2F, 1−4−5 Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo (Google Map Link)

2. Ivy Place

This image is from a previous year; the 2025 menu may vary.

Spend your intimate Thanksgiving celebration at one of the chicest restaurants in Daikanyama. The Ivy Place Thanksgiving menu begins with a bowl of creamed sweet potato soup, followed by homemade gravlax with yogurt sauce and seasonal vegetable farro salad. For the main course, there’s roasted turkey leg with gravy, and for dessert, pumpkin pie with whipped cream and almond tuile. After your meal, take a stroll through Daikanyama T-Site, a stylish bookstore complex with a vintage book section.

Price: ¥7,500 per person
Date: Thu, Nov. 27, 2025
Location: 16-15 Sarugakucho, Shibuya City, Tokyo (Google Map Link)

3. BLT Steak Roppongi

This image is from a previous year; the 2025 menu may vary.

One of our favorite steakhouses in Tokyo will once again turn its grill into a turkey roastery for the holiday, offering a special two-day exclusive lunch and dinner course. The lunch course features a warm popover, Waldorf salad, grilled turkey breast with gravy, cranberry relish and mashed potatoes, finished with a cinnamon-flavored cherry pie and coffee. The dinner course includes everything from the lunch set, plus a rich, creamy pumpkin soup made with Hokkaido chestnut pumpkin for a perfect autumn touch.

Price: Lunch: ¥7,500 per person; Dinner: ¥10,000 per person
Date: Thu, Nov. 27-Fri, Nov. 28, 2025
Location: 5F Izumi Garden, 1-6-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)

4. T.Y.Harbor

This image is from a previous year; the 2025 menu may vary.

With its stunning view of Tokyo Bay and chic ambiance, this restaurant‘s Thanksgiving menu gets a few extra brownie points among foreign residents. The full-course menu features a creamy roasted cauliflower soup, roasted turkey with mushroom gravy as a main course, and a classic pumpkin tart topped with whipped cream and vanilla ice cream for dessert. Enjoy the exquisite food as the city lights reflect in the harbor.

Price: ¥7,000 per person
Date: Thu, Nov. 27, 2025
Location: 2-1-3 Higashi-Shinagawa, Tokyo

5. The Oak Door

Have an elegant Thanksgiving dinner at The Oak Door by Grand Hyatt Tokyo. This year’s menu begins with spiced nuts, marinated olives and charcuterie, followed by an autumn salad of kale, treviso, pecans, green apple and feta with carrot-ginger dressing. The main course features roast turkey with mashed potatoes, pork sausage and apple–chestnut stuffing, roasted Anno sweet potatoes, gravy and cranberry jam, served alongside smoked tomato green beans, creamed spinach and brussels sprouts with walnuts and orange. For dessert, enjoy The Oak Door’s signature pumpkin pie with vanilla ice cream and coffee or tea.

Price: ¥11,000 per person (¥17,600 per person for dinner with a wine pairing)
Date: Thu, Nov. 27-Sat, Nov. 29, 2025
Location: 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo (Google Map Link)

6. Smokehouse

If you’re looking for a more casual Thanksgiving dinner, Smokehouse is the place to go. This year’s menu includes smoky clam chowder, a barbecue turkey plate served with cornbread, whipped yams and cranberry relish, and a side of pumpkin mac and cheese with bacon and spiced pumpkin seeds. For dessert, enjoy a pumpkin pecan pie with vanilla ice cream—the perfect sweet finish to this laid-back holiday feast.

Price: ¥7,000 per person
Date: Thu, Nov. 27, 2025
Location: 5−17−13, Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo (Google Map Link)

7. Mark’s Tokyo

Mark’s Tokyo will once again host its annual Thanksgiving Dinner Course over three days. This year’s feast includes spinach and artichoke dip with house-made focaccia, warm Japanese kabocha pumpkin soup and oven-roasted turkey from Ishikawa Prefecture served with all the traditional sides like cornbread stuffing, roasted vegetables and cranberry sauce, plus a selection of seasonal desserts. There will be one seating each evening at 7 p.m so don’t forget to reserve in advance. Any extra seats announced via their social media.

Price: ¥13,200 per person
Date: Wed, Nov. 26-Fri, Nov. 28, 2025
Location: 1-23-14 Meguro, Meguro-Ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)

8. Soulfood House

If you’re after a real family-style Thanksgiving dinner, Soulfood House is the place to be. People who’ve been there will all unanimously agree that the family warmth, amazingly delicious food and the never-ending fun at this place make it a Thanksgiving kind of day, every day. This year, the dinner menu includes a pumpkin soup and kale salad, honey-smoked turkey with cornbread stuffing, gravy and cranberry sauce, a choice of spare rib or beef rib (a tough one!), garlic mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, cream corn casserole and macaroni and cheese. Finish it all off with some pumpkin spice icecream for dessert.

Price: Adults: ¥9,900 per person; Children (10 and under): ¥4,950 per person
Date: Wed, Nov. 26-Fri, Nov. 28, 2025
Location: 2−8−10, Azabujuban, Minato City, Tokyo (Google Map Link)

9. Two Dogs Taproom

If you prefer a buffet over a course meal, the Two Dogs Taproom’s Thanksgiving dinner, which is all-you-can-eat and includes drinks, is definitely worth considering. Expect an extensive Thanksgiving food menu with roast turkey, homemade stuffing, mashed potatoes, three kinds of salad, a cheese platter and a generous dessert menu with pumpkin pie, chocolate brownies and fresh whipped cream. This Thanksgiving menu also includes craft beer, among other drinks, for all you can drink, too! You’ll need to send a reservation inquiry via email.

Price: Adult: ¥8,200 per person; Child 6-12: ¥3,600 per person; Child under 6: Free!
Date: Thu, Nov. 27, 2025
Location: 3−15−24, Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo (Google Map Link)

10. Luca Deli

For homebodies, Luca Deli has got you covered with pick up and delivery options. Their special holiday turkey menu offers various sides, turkey sizes, and desserts to choose from. Roasted turkeys come in sizes from small (serves 2–3) to mega (serves 30+). Sides are available à la carte or in a Special Holiday Set which includes chestnut and mushroom stuffing, rosemary-flavored mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, green veggies with bacon and maple syrup, organic homemade cornbread, and an organic classic pumpkin pie with Chantilly brandy sauce.

You can also add on their Natural Honey-Glazed Ham (from ¥29,500 per whole ham)—slow-cooked, lightly smoked and perfect for pairing with your favorite red wine.

Price: Meats: ¥9,900〜¥62,900 per chicken/turkey/ham; Special Holiday Set (various sides): ¥4,900 per person; Extra Sides: ¥600〜¥1,000 each
Date: Delivery until Fri, Dec. 26, 2025. (Order at least five days before the required delivery date.)
Location: For pick up: 1-5-1 Shirogane, Minato-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)

Are you looking to buy and cook your own Turkey? If so, see this article on where to buy a turkey in Japan!

We hope you have a happy Thanksgiving in Tokyo!

10 Pumpkin Spice Latte Spots in Tokyo To Try This Fall

The Savvy Team — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Fall comes around, and immediately, you see chestnuts, sweet potatoes and pumpkins take over Japan’s restaurants, cafes and various food and drink chain stores alike. However, when it comes to America’s fall favorite drink, the pumpkin spice latte, it’s surprisingly hard to get your hands on it in Tokyo…

Well, other than at your closest Starbucks during the season. However, for those looking to try something more unique or local, here are 10 other places in Tokyo to enjoy a cozy, hot, or chilled pumpkin spice latte this season.

1. Blue Leaf Cafe

Blue Leaf Cafe has taken advantage of the wide variety of seasonal ingredients that autumn in Japan has to offer. Using ingredients like pear and sweet potato, they are offering three special limited-time seasonal drinks: a Pear and Vanilla Latte, a Sweet Potato and Cinnamon Latte, and, of course, for this list, a Pumpkin Spice Latte—available iced or hot.

Where: Blue Leaf Cafe Ueno, 2−7−7 Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Price: ¥770

2. Cafe Ëmeri

A PSL with real fall soul—spiced with nutmeg, cinnamon and clove for that warm, hug-in-a-cup feeling. Ëmeri’s version leans aromatic and artisanal, made in a tiny neighborhood cafe known for calm corners, omurice or pasta lunches, seasonal bakes and thoughtful, slow-coffee vibes.

Where: 5-14-4 Minami-Osawa, Hachioji, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Price: ¥710

3. Ojizo Coffee

Why not try this pumpkin spice latte made with creamy oat milk? It’s available iced or hot and can be enjoyed with American-style cookies served by Monsta Sweets Tokyo—a foreign-owned business in Japan. Grab one of their various baked treats along with your special seasonal drink.

Where: Ojizo Coffee Koenji, 2-37-8 Kōenjikita, Suginami City, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Price: ¥650

4. Butter Coffee Stand

Here’s a PSL for pumpkin lovers who want to try all things pumpkin! For a limited time, Butter will be selling a homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte made with Hokkaido pumpkin and several types of spices. They will also sell various pumpkin-inspired baked goods, such as pumpkin cannels, pumpkin basque cheesecakes and pumpkin financiers.

Where: Butter Coffee Stand, 2-1-1 Arai, Nakano-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Price: ¥800

5. Streamer Coffee Company

Try this seasonally limited caramel pumpkin latte at the Streamer Coffee Company in Shibuya and Setagaya. Available hot, this cozy drink keeps you warm at this third-wave coffee-inspired cafe—a style of coffee shop that purchases and roasts its own coffee and serves it in its own store.

Where: Various stores
Price: ¥950

6. Torse Cafe

This hot pumpkin spice latte, available only in autumn, uses warming spices like ginger and cinnamon and is topped with a cute merengue. Torse Cafe also offers a variety of adorably decorated cakes and other sweets to enjoy with your drink. They also have a classic omurice on the menu for those looking for something more savory too.

Where: T & F Building 2F, 5-35-5 Shimouma, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Price: ¥935

7. Aux Merveilleux De Fred Tokyo

Velvety pumpkin spice meets creamy foam perfection. This French-style café brings back its seasonal fall favorite, layering rich espresso with cozy pumpkin spices and a light, cloud-like cream topping. Available hot or iced—the perfect sweet treat to pair with their signature airy pastries and Paris-in-Tokyo charm.

Where: 107-2 Yaraicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Price: ¥850-910

8. Awakening Cafe

Awakening Cafe’s seasonal pumpkin spice latte blends gentle spices with creamy sweetness. Beyond good coffee, this Kita-Ueno spot hosts a weekly English Cafe every Saturday, bringing locals and internationals together for casual conversation and cultural exchange—a welcoming hub for coffee lovers and globally minded creatives alike.

Where: Ichiro Building 4F, 2-23-9 Kitaueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Price: ¥800

9. Noi Tokyo

A gentle, nostalgic take on the pumpkin spice latte, Noi Tokyo in Otsuka pours autumn comfort into every cup. Inspired by memories of a grandmother’s kitchen, this bakery-cafe is all about warmth, baked treats, and quiet happiness. They offer Wi-Fi, outlets and pet-friendly seating, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely coffee break or remote work.

Where: 3-38-14 Minami Otsuka, Toshima, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Price: ¥750

10. Haishop Cafe

Shibuya Scramble Square’s 2025 autumn theme is all about the five senses, with shops and restaurants offering treats that delight through aroma, texture and flavor. Among them, Haishop Cafe serves a Fair Trade Spiced Pumpkin Latte that warms both the body and soul. Made with rich seasonal pumpkin and ethically sourced spices, it delivers gentle sweetness and a soft, aromatic spice finish.

Where: Scramble Square 7F, 2-24-12 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Price: ¥700

Editor’s Note

Not all of these PSLs come with coffee, and their availability varies by store.

Where do you get your pumpkin spice lattes in Tokyo? Let us know in the comments!

This article has been updated with the latest information for 2025.

What’s A Bal? Friendly Fusion Izakaya Explained

Sydney Seekford — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 23:00:00 +0000

A couple of weeks ago, I accompanied a fellow writer to conduct a menu test at a recently opened eatery. She looked at the menu and knit her eyebrows together. “What am I supposed to call this? A bistro? It’s not—it’s too Japanese… There are burgers, but also, ajillo. And matcha lattes of all things?” Welcome, my friend, to a bal izakaya!

What Is A “Bal”?

Perfect for the weekend—or after work.

Bal is a recent term popularized by the owners of certain izakaya-cum-bistros. Not “bar”, nor the Spanish “baru”, but bal. This romaji-fied katakana word perfectly illustrates how these only-in-Japan “bars” differ from Western iterations.

J-Net 21, a service that guides would-be business owners, defines a “dining bar” as an eatery offering a wide range of alcoholic beverage options in addition to food. The subtypes outlined are “Western European izakaya”, “wine bar” and “shot bar”. Not that many readers would equate “shot bar” with a place for eating charcuterie, though!

Turnip and bacon aglio-olio

If you search “dining bar” and “Tokyo,” you might be surprised at the scarcity of usable listings. In fact, much like the contents of the preview menu, results from my own search lacked rhyme or reason. If you try in katakana, however, a clear pattern emerges: trendy eateries with an East-meets-West menu and an emphasis on drinks and atmosphere.

Another Japanese-only source, the celebration and gifting website Mechoo, explains the differences between French bistro and Spanish “baru,” noting that in Japan, bal (baru) has come to mean “Spanish-inspired Western Izakaya,” even though bal typically leans towards Italian or French influences.

The writers at Mechoo seem right on point, as their coverage came out in 2021 and was most recently updated in July 2023, with the uptick in bal openings.

As it stands, it seems that the bal hasn’t quite entered the expat space yet….time to change that!

Getting Girls To The Bar

For those who wince at the thought of pit stains on otherwise immaculately crisp white shirts, a risk of sloshed cheap beer and free-flowing cigarette smoke in izakaya, a bal isn’t that. Nor is it a place to risk typical bar-like bothering.

Instead, most bals smack of posh, plushness and premium. Bals provide if-you-know-you-know intimacy that makes them perfect for dates or drinks with friends. The atmosphere is inviting but upscale enough to make guests feel like they’re having an evening out.

Raisin bread and sardine ajillo might sound strange, but it’s a classic bal-style invention.

Mature flavors and fashionable interiors make bals especially inviting to the working women of Tokyo. They come to rub the salonpas of camaraderie into stiff shoulders and relax into voluptuous, enveloping flavors.

If izakaya promise salarymen a second wind after a long day, bals allow trendy guests to dip their toes into gourmet with all the familiar comfort of a warm bath.

The Bal Menu

Potato salad dressed up with ikura (cod roe).

Expect bagna cauda, carpaccio with Japanese flair and plenty of cheeses. One tell-tale sign of a bal is the fruit-burrata plate, sometimes accompanied by prosciutto. All bal seem to have potato salad, but each eatery employs some special flair or signature prep method.

Bals make a point of serving bread or cracker-paired appetizers too, unlike izakaya, and typically have Western-style pickles instead of oshinko or zuke (Japanese pickles).

“Bagna Cauda” a Spanish-inspired vegetable fondue-esque appetizer.

For mains and meats, smoked or rare is a given. Duck breast and rare steaks or roast are often served pre-sliced and dressed for sharing. Diners can expect some, if not multiple, forms of confit, terrine or paté on the menu.

There is going to be pasta—spaghetti of some sort with shimmery oil sauce, ragu or a “signature” carbonara; something rich.

The ever-present powder of parm and pepper pasta (say that three times fast!)

Round pasta like gnocchi, orecchiette and ravioli are all viable contenders, consistent with the “roundness” that classifies a bal’s signature menu. Pizza, focaccia, risotto and the like will satisfy the rest of the table.

Bals make generous use of dustings of grated parmesan, thinly sliced mushrooms and truffles, creamy, fluffy egg dishes, generous pours of olive oil and bursts of grated black pepper. The plating leans gourmet, but the flavors are all comfort.

Recommended Bal Izakaya Spots in Tokyo

Here are some of my favorite spots for you to try!

Fours (Meguro)

Fours, self-described as “genreless cuisine to enjoy with people you love” is one of the most representative bal locations and a genre pioneer. It’s got the full bal experience:

A warmly inviting atmosphere, dressy potatoes, creative gorgonzola cheesecake for dessert and a signature salad featuring liver confit. It achieves the perfect bal-esque East-West balance with takikomi gohan (one-pot rice dish) and grown-up wasabeef (Japanese-style roast beef).

Address: 1-4-11, Meguro, Meguro City, Tokyo
Closest Station: Meguro Station
Expect to Pay: Dinner: ¥8,000–¥9,999
Opening Hours: Tue-Sun 5 p.m.-11 p.m., Closed on Mondays and 1-2 Tuesdays/month
Website: https://foursmeguro.com/

Flamingo (Ebisu)

Flamingo, “fun Italian and wine,” is located in foreigner-favorite Ebisu. It’s a place to explore well-known fusions like shirako (fish milt) pasta and inventive takes such as negitoro (minced raw tuna with green onion) cannoli. This little stand is snug and cozy, with bright windows partially obscured by the patio plant life.

Emitting a clubhouse vibe, Flamingo is ideal for savoring a couple of glasses of organic, small-batch wine alongside sharing plates, or opt for the course menu for a comprehensive gastronomic experience.

Address: 1-2-8 Ebisuminami, Shibuya City, Tokyo
Closest Station: Ebisu Station
Expect to Spend: Dinner: ¥6,000–¥7,999
Opening Hours: Tue-Sat 3 p.m.-11 p.m. (Last Order at 10:30 p.m.), Sun 1 p.m.-9 p.m. (Last Order at 8:30 p.m.) Closed Mondays
Website: https://www.instagram.com/flamingo.ebisu/

Grilled Meat Bal Taiju (Ikebukuro)

Taiju lives up to its moniker with signature potato salad, stunning cuts of roasted and grilled wagyu, plump gnocchi and tuna katsu. This place is an especially good choice for a date night, with course menus starting at just ¥2,800 and a strong Western influence.

Taiju Allegato Hanare, the sister store to its Nishi-Shinjuku location, is positioned as an upscale izakaya. Hanare’s menu is even more successful in expressing the signature bal style: note the appetizer menu, featuring both fried shishito peppers and a fig-burrata plate.

Address: 3-22-5 Nishiikebukuro, Toshima City, Tokyo
Closest Station: Ikebukuro Station
Expect to Spend: Dinner: ¥6,000–¥7,999
Hours: Mon-Fri: 5 p.m. -11:30 p.m., Sat/Sun/Holiday: 4 p.m.-11:30 p.m.
Website: https://www.meatbal.com/shop/ikebukuro/

Chochin (Omotesando)

Unlike the other members of this list, Chochin offers an East and West menu rather than a selection of fusion foods. It’s the place to go if you have one quiche eater and one karaage (Japanese fried chicken) craver.

Chochin’s comparatively narrow offerings put the focus on enjoying its upscale space as a watering hole. However, the mix-and-match menu is still 100% bal quality, and the course option is ideal for a nomikai (drinking party).

Address: 4-29-9 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo
Closest Station: Meiji Jingumae Station
Expect to Spend: Dinner: ¥3,000–¥3,999
Opening Hours: Mon-Thu 5 p.m.-11 p.m., Fri-Sun, Holidays: 4 p.m.-11:30 p.m.
Website: https://chochin-omotesando.com/

Newly armed with a definition and what to look for, let us know if you have any bal izakaya to recommend!

5 Art Activities in Tokyo That Will Spark Your Inner Creative

Michele Tanabe — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 23:00:00 +0000

With various online publications touting the next-best Tokyo event and influencers on TikTok and Instagram sharing trending cafes and restaurants, the freedom to explore the city’s many highlights has never been easier. While general gatherings are a great way to socialize and network, finding art or creator-focused activities in Tokyo has proved to be more difficult.

Luckily, this writer and artist has scoured the streets of Tokyo in search of the best activities and resources to pull inspiration from for your next artistic endeavor, whatever that may be.

1. Shop For Art Supplies

Prior to moving to Tokyo, I heavily relied on ordering art supplies from Amazon or making rare trips back home during the holidays to pick up colored pencils and markers. It wasn’t until I ventured out to Shinjuku in search of a proper watercolor sketchbook that I found Sekaido.

Sekaido is truly Tokyo’s mecca of art supply shops. Shinjuku’s flagship multi-story store is dedicated to serving artists at all levels of their creative careers. Each floor is dedicated to a specific type of art or craft, and one can spend hours browsing through their massive selection.

At Sekaido, you’ll find items such as:

Acrylic, oil and gouache paints
Watercolor paper, paints and pencils
Paint brushes of all types, including Japanese calligraphy brushes
Pre-stretched and primed canvas in varying sizes
Assorted sketchbooks and paper types
Pencils, charcoal, erasers, sharpeners and shading products
Manga and comic inking supplies
Markers, soft pastels, chalk pastels, crayons and crafting clay

For artists who aren’t fussed over specific supplies and are looking for something basic, I recommend stationery staples like Muji, Loft or Tokyu Hands. These shops make it easy to find grab-and-go products such as markers, notebooks, craft paper and other basic art supplies. For an extended list of places to check out, see our article Where To Find Art Supplies in Tokyo.

2. Take A Trip To An Art Exhibition

One of the best ways to get the ballpoint pen rolling is to venture into urban Tokyo and visit an art exhibition. I often enjoy taking a solo trip when I’m stuck on a concept for a painting or drawing.

One spot I frequent is the National Art Center, Tokyo or NACT. Here you’ll find a fast-rotating schedule of art installations surrounded by dreamy architecture that one can’t help but pull inspiration from. Currently, two special exhibitions are on display at NACT, available for viewing until mid-December:

Prism of the Real: Making Art in Japan 1989-2010: Until Mon, Dec. 8, 2025
Bvlgari Kaleidos: Colors, Cultures and Crafts: Until Mon, Dec. 15, 2025

With exhibitions like these, and many more shared in Savvy’s very own Tokyo Art Scene articles, you’ll be filled to the brim with ideas for your next project. If you want an extended list of places to frequent, check out our list of Tokyo’s Top 10 Art Museums, Tokyo’s Top 10 Offbeat Museums, 10 Interactive Art Museums To Visit In & Around Tokyo, and 7 Free Art Galleries in Ginza.

Although somewhat intimidating, sharing your work is a great way to showcase your art while connecting with others who share the same interests. If you’re a competitive person and eager to showcase your creations, I suggest exploring the numerous competitions available both in Japan and internationally.

Listed below are a few contests and events you can submit your work to:

Kyoto Writing Competition (English Application)
Tokyo Midtown Award Art Competition (Japanese Application)
Canon Graphgate Photo Contest (Japanese Application)
Boit! International Illustration Contest (English Application)
Ploughshares Emerging Writers Contest (English Application)

Our friends at GaijinPot also host an art/photo contest at their annual GaijinPot Expo, offering cash prizes to the winners. Anyone in any Japanese prefecture can apply, so keep an eye out for the next submission period to open.

4. Attend An Art Event Or Sketch Meetup

If a competition isn’t up your alley but you still want to share your work, an art event or sketch meetup is a great way to collaborate, create and socialize!

I recently attended a live sketching event through a Meetup group called Art Jammers. At their most recent event, I had the opportunity to sketch the surrounding nature and city architecture while making friends with people who share my interest in drawing. At the end of our session, we shared our work and highlighted things we liked in each other’s pieces.

I walked away from that event with newfound motivation and even pocketed useful tips from experienced sketchers to help improve my drawing skills!

Artedly Tokyo‘s monthly meetups are also a great resource for those looking to connect with Tokyo’s creatives in a more casual setting. Not only that, but Artdely helps connect artists and photographers with cafe exhibitions at a low cost. If you’re looking for a way to display your art, this is definitely worth considering.

5. Participate In An Art Class

Classes are ideal for budding artists who prefer learning under the guidance of an instructor. Even advanced artists can benefit from classes when learning a new medium, say, transitioning from acrylic to oil paints. Add a little alcohol to the mix, and you’ve got ArtBar.

Artbar is Tokyo’s first “paint & sip” studio that offers classes on varying styles, such as paint pouring, gold accents, impressionism and recreating famous works of art like Monet’s famous water lilies. Many of Artbar’s instructors are also fluent in English and classes are offered frequently for those with busy schedules.

For those interested in delving into figure drawing with a live model, consider attending the Wednesday Night Sketch Club hosted at the BnA Hotel in Nihonbashi. Co-founder Keigo Fukugaki is fully bilingual and welcomes artists from all walks of life and levels. Ticket prices include a drink, supplies and model fees.

Tokyo might initially shy away from showcasing its artistic side, but those who seek it will eventually find their way into the creative world when they are ready and willing.

15 Halloween Food & Drink Offerings in Japan For 2025

The Savvy Team — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Door-to-door knocking? No thanks! Halloween in Japan isn’t about candy corn. It’s about devilishly delicious limited-time treats that you can only get this time of year. Sink your fangs into our roundup of the 15 spookiest (and tastiest) Halloween food and drink offerings in Japan for 2025!

Halloween Food & Drink Promotions Available Around Japan

All across Japan, big-name chains brew up fang-tastic drinks, desserts and snacks that are easy to grab on the go. Some are cute, some are creepy but all of them are frightfully fun! Here’s a list of chain shops you can definitely expect to have some sort of Halloween-themed offerings:

Mister Donut & Krispy Kreme: Donuts with spooky faces and sprinkles galore
Baskin-Robbins: Ice cream in ghoulish colors and creepy flavors
Domino’s Pizza Japan: Bewitched pizzas and sides
7-Eleven, Family Mart & Lawson: Creepy-cute parfaits, cakes and Halloween bento sets
Godiva Japan: Gorgeous Halloween chocolate collections for gifting or gobbling
Starbucks, Doutor and Tully’s: Halloween drinks, themed desserts and witchy seasonal cups and merch

5 Standout Nationwide Halloween Treats

Beyond the big chains, plenty of other Japanese brands get creative each Halloween season with original flavors and designs, too. Here’s our pick of the spookiest standouts from across the country:

1. Bagel & Bagel’s Halloween Bagel

Bagel & Bagel is giving breakfast a spooky makeover this year with a special Halloween bagel that is almost too cute to eat! This limited-time bagel features three flavors in one: pumpkin caramel, purple sweet potato and white chocolate, and cocoa, decorated with a cheeky little monster expression. They’ll also have a variety of other seasonal bagels and muffins to get you into an overall cozy fall mood, too.

Price: ¥345 per bagel
Availability: Nationwide at Bagel & Bagel shops until October 31, 2025

2. Momi&Toy’s Halloween Crepes

Crepes get a spooky-sweet makeover this season at Momi & Toy’s. Their Caramel Pumpkin Cheesecake crepe is the perfect combo of pumpkin cream, caramel sauce, caramel bites and rare cheesecake, all snuggled inside their signature “melting” crepe. If purple is more your vibe, the Berry Purple Sweet Potato (with vanilla ice cream) crepe layers creamy sweet-potato mousse with tangy berry sauce, crispy toppings and a scoop of vanilla ice cream for balance.

Price: ¥820 each
Availability: Nationwide at Momi & Toy’s shops until October 31, 2025

3. Cozy Corner Disney Villains Cakes

Ginza Cozy Corner is back to cast a delicious spell with its Disney Villains collection! This eight-piece mini cake set draws inspiration from the most iconic baddies of all time—Maleficent, Ursula and the Evil Queen. Each bite-sized cake is carefully designed with vibrant colors and mischievous details that bring the villains to life. They’re the party-perfect option, but guests won’t know whether to eat them or admire the devilish designs.

Price: ¥3,132 per cake set
Availability: Nationwide at Ginza Cozy Corner shops until October 31, 2025

4. Cheese Garden Halloween Sweets

The Cheese Garden is getting into the spooky spirit with not just one but two scarily tempting Halloween exclusives. First up are their Happy Cheese Halloween drinks—cheesecake-inspired lattes and creamy sips dressed up with seasonal flair. Then there’s the Halloween Parfaits, a layered delight of sweet jelly, baked cheesecake-flavored soft serve with cookies, cheesecake and a flavored sauce topping.

Price: Halloween drinks ¥880-¥930; Halloween parfaits ¥850-950
Availability: Nationwide at Cheese Garden shops until October 31, 2025

5. Dancing Crab’s Halloween Party Menu

Seafood gets a spooky twist at the Dancing Crab as their stores transform into festive lairs complete with eerie décor, themed playlists and even prize giveaways during showtime. On the menu, you’ll find seasonal bites like a pumpkin cream tart and a muffin sandwich with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. To wash it all down, the “Dr. Jekyll’s Bloody Cooler” cocktail arrives looking like a creepy berry-blood experiment gone wrong. Paired with their signature messy-fun crab bags, it’s a Halloween feast that’s as theatrical as it is tasty.

Price: Crab bags from ¥4,000 per person; Tart ¥1,000; Muffin; ¥500; Bloody cocktail ¥1,000
Availability: The Dancing Crab shops in Tokyo and Osaka until Oct 31, 2025

5 Halloween Afternoon Teas in Tokyo

When it comes to over-the-top Halloween spreads, Tokyo’s hotels take the cake (literally). Every October, the city’s most luxurious hotels transform their afternoon teas into spooky wonderlands. Here are our top picks for 2025:

6. ANA InterContinental Tokyo’s Halloween Afternoon Tea

At ANA InterContinental Tokyo, Halloween is equally elegant and playful. Their afternoon tea features raspberry tarts, cookies, pumpkin cream puffs and even persimmon jelly paired with financier cake. Savory bites like smoked salmon blinis keep things balanced, while the seasonal theme makes every plate feel like a little piece of edible art. Pair it with Ronnefeldt tea, coffee, Japanese tea or even their special drink for the full magical spread.

Date: Until Oct 31, 2025
Price: ¥7,600 per person (¥8,800 with special drink)
Where: Atrium Lounge, ANA InterContinental Tokyo, 1-12-33 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo

7. Conrad Tokyo’s Halloween Afternoon Tea “Graceful Moon”

Inspired by moonlit nights, Conrad Tokyo’s “Graceful Moon” tea brings a celestial glow to your table. The menu features a Japanese chestnut Mont Blanc topped with a shimmering moon-shaped chocolate, violet-hued rare cheesecakes and foie gras pies disguised as chestnuts. It’s a dreamy, refined take on Halloween that’s less spooky and more sophisticated.

Date: Until Oct 31, 2025
Price: Weekdays ¥7,900; Weekends & Holidays ¥8,500
Where: TwentyEight, Conrad Tokyo, 1-9-1 Higashi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo

8. Shangri-La Tokyo’s Halloween Afternoon Tea

If you like your Halloween high tea with a dose of cute, Shangri-La Tokyo has you covered. Their playful lineup includes ghost-topped kouign-amann, chocolate cat ears and mushroom cheesecakes that are as fun to look at as they are to eat. With seasonal flavors like chestnut, pumpkin and apple worked into the mix, this tea set manages to be both whimsical and satisfying.

Date: Until Oct 31, 2025
Price: ¥8,580 per person
Where: The Lobby Lounge, Shangri-La Tokyo, 1-8-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo

9. Grand Hyatt Tokyo’s Halloween Afternoon Tea

At Grand Hyatt Tokyo, Halloween takes a gloriously gory turn with a set featuring brain-shaped raspberry mousse, eyeball jelly and ghostly pumpkin cream puffs that look like they crawled right out of a haunted house. It’s equal parts creepy and delicious, perfect for those who like a little fright with their afternoon delights. For those who want to take home a set instead, the Fiorentina Pastry Boutique on the first floor of the hotel also has an afternoon tea takeout box available.

Date: Until Oct 31, 2025
Price: ¥7,150 per person (¥8,800 with a glass of champagne)
Where: The French Kitchen, Grand Hyatt Tokyo, 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo

10. InterContinental Tokyo Bay’s Peter Rabbit Potluck Halloween Afternoon Tea

This is for a Halloween with an adorably whimsical twist! InterContinental Tokyo Bay has teamed up with Peter Rabbit for a potluck-style afternoon tea that’s equal parts cute and seasonal. Pumpkin puddings, character-inspired sweets and rustic autumn flavors fill the table for a tea that’s more family-friendly than frightful. It’s a charming option for those who want a softer, storybook-style Halloween experience.

Date: Until Oct 31, 2025
Price: From ¥7,260 per person
Where: New York Lounge, Hotel InterContinental Tokyo Bay, 1-16-2 Kaigan, Minato-ku, Tokyo

5 Other Special Halloween Offerings in Tokyo

Not all Halloween fun comes in the form of cakes and tea. Tokyo’s hotels and bars are also serving up cocktails, buffets and one-night-only events that give adults their own version of trick-or-treat. Here are the spookiest standouts:

11. Andaz Tokyo’s Halloween Special Highball Cocktails

Andaz Tokyo is mixing up some magic behind the bar this season with two Halloween-only highballs: the crimson Carmilla Highball, a gothic-inspired mix of fig-infused Campari, umeshu, spices, plum wine and orange, and Candy Alley, a smooth blend of chocolate rum, hazelnut liqueur, oat vanilla milk, soda and sweet potato espuma. Best of all, if you enjoy them during their Highball Happy Hour from 5–8 p.m., these spooky-chic cocktails come with a skyline view and a wallet-friendly price!

Date: Until Oct 31, 2025
Price: ¥1,840 per cocktail (Only ¥990 per cocktail during Happy Hour)
Where: Andaz Tokyo, 1-23-4 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo

12. Royal Park Hotel’s Halloween Dinner Buffet & Cocktails

At the Royal Park Hotel, you’ll find both tricks and treats. The Symphony buffet is loaded with Halloween delights like pumpkin mousse, themed pizzas and autumn tarts. Downstairs at the Royal Scots Bar, sip on wicked cocktails with names like “Creepy Eyeball” and “Pumpkin Pudding.” It’s a full evening of food and fun that makes this hotel a must-visit Halloween haunt.

Date: Until Oct 31, 2025
Price: Buffet from ¥8,500 per adult; Cocktails from ¥2,200 each
Where: Royal Park Hotel, 2-11-1 Nihonbashi-Kakigaracho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo

13. Mercure Yokosuka’s Halloween Buffet & Cocktails

Take your Halloween feast seaside at Mercure Yokosuka. Their Halloween buffet offers eerie appetizers and a variety of desserts with a spooky twist. Pair it with the hotel’s themed mocktail or cocktail and enjoy the seasonal atmosphere overlooking the bay. It’s a little bit scary, a little bit classy and all-around delicious.

Date: Until Oct 31, 2025
Price: Buffet from ¥4,400 per adult; Mocktail ¥900; Cocktail ¥1,100
Where: Mercure Yokosuka, 3-27 Honcho, Yokosuka, Kanagawa

14. Shibuya Stream Hotel’s Neo Shibuya Halloween 2025 (One Night Event)

If you’re looking for the wildest Halloween party in town, Shibuya Stream Hotel’s one-night bash is the place to be. With live DJs, themed food and drinks and neon-lit decor, the event transforms the trendy Shibuya spot into a Halloween rave. Expect Instagrammable backdrops, kimono dance shows, poker tables and crowds of costumed partygoers dancing until dawn.

Date: Oct 31, 2025
Price: From ¥3,000 per person (advance)
Where: Shibuya Stream Hotel, 3-21-3 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

15. Westin Tokyo’s Halloween Night “Black & Amber” (One Night Event)

The Westin is pulling out all the stops for a glamorous Halloween soirée. With free-flowing Veuve Clicquot Champagne, a “Luxury Bites” menu of spooky gourmet treats, smoky desserts and live performances, this event feels more like a masquerade ball than a party. It’s a one-night-only celebration of indulgence and elegance—Halloween chic at its finest.

Date: Oct 31, 2025
Price: ¥17,500 per person
Where: The Lounge, The Westin Tokyo, 1-4-1 Mita, Meguro-ku, Tokyo

So, what do you think? Do these Halloween food and drink offerings in Japan excite you as much as knocking on doors for candy? Grab your coven, pick your poison (tea or cocktails), and make this October your most deliciously haunting one yet!

Ozempic in Japan: A Savvy Guide For Foreign Residents

Kerri King — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Over the past two years, drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro have gone from quiet prescriptions for Type 2 diabetes to global household names. Thanks to celebrity testimonials, viral TikToks and endless headlines, these GLP-1 medications (short for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) are now strongly associated with rapid weight loss. Japan hasn’t escaped the buzz. English-language ads for Ozempic and similar drugs are now common across social media, often targeting foreign residents. If the constant media push has you wondering about Ozempic in Japan, here is your Savvy Guide to these medications.

GLP-1 Drugs Approved in Japan

Can you actually get Ozempic or similar “weight loss injections” in Japan? The answer is yes, but only under strict medical criteria. The three most common medications available are:

Ozempic (Semaglutide): Approved in Japan in 2020, Ozempic is officially prescribed for type 2 diabetes management. Some doctors may provide it off-label for weight loss, but this is not common practice.
Mounjaro (Tirzepatide): This newer GLP-1 medication was approved in 2022, also for type 2 diabetes treatment. Like in the case of Ozempic, its recognized role in Japan is blood sugar control, not weight loss.
Wegovy (Semaglutide): Wegovy is the only injectable medication approved for obesity management and has been available since 2023. It’s covered under Japan’s National Health Insurance (NHI) if you meet the criteria (BMI ≥35, or ≥27 with related health conditions such as hypertension or diabetes).

Several other GLP-1 medications are also now available in Japan, including Rybelsus (oral semaglutide), Saxenda (liraglutide), Trulicity (dulaglutide) and Byetta/Bydureon (exenatide). These are usually prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes rather than weight loss.

The Cost: What You’ll Pay With & Without National Health Insurance

Whether these drugs are covered by National Health Insurance (NHI) or not makes a huge difference to your monthly costs. Japan’s NHI usually covers 70% of drug costs, leaving patients to pay about 30% out of pocket.

Here are the official 2025 prices and typical copays for the three most common medications available (monthly estimates are based on four weekly doses at the lowest available dose and exclude clinic visits or test fees):

Brand	Approved Use in Japan	NHI Copayment (Out-of-pocket Cost)	Private Clinic / Off-Label Cost
Ozempic	Type 2 diabetes	¥1,650–6,600/month	¥25,000–33,000/month
Mounjaro	Type 2 diabetes	¥2,300–13,800/month	¥22,000–40,000/month
Wegovy	Obesity (BMI ≥35, or ≥27 + comorbidities)	¥2,250–12,900/month	¥26,000 – ¥52,000

The Marketing Push To Foreigners

If you live in Japan and spend any time on social media, you’ve probably noticed the rise in ads for “weight loss injections.” Even if your feed has nothing to do with dieting, it’s now common to see English-language promotions for Ozempic, Mounjaro or similar drugs.

These marketing campaigns target foreign residents because access through Japan’s public health system is limited. Strict NHI criteria and a lack of English-language support often make it harder for foreign residents to get GLP-1 medications. Private clinics are well aware of this gap, and so they have begun to market aggressively to international residents, often charging significantly higher, out-of-pocket prices.

Private English-Speaking Clinics Offering GLP-1 Treatments

If you don’t qualify for coverage under Japan’s National Health Insurance (NHI), or if your doctor isn’t supportive, several private English-speaking clinics do offer GLP-1 medications. These clinics can be convenient, especially with bilingual staff and telemedicine delivery, but they can cost two to three times more than NHI-covered prescriptions.

It’s worth checking the fine print before signing up so you know exactly what you’re paying for. Some clinics bundle everything (consultations, follow-ups, needles, alcohol swabs, even travel letters) into one package. Others only list the medication price upfront and bill separately for extras like blood tests.

These are a few well-known clinics offering GLP-1 weight loss treatments in Japan:

Hada no Clinic (Tokyo): Bilingual clinic advertising weight-loss programs that include check-ups and counseling.
Bianca Clinic (Tokyo): Provides Mounjaro and other GLP-1 injections for weight loss, marketed as weekly treatments.
Tokyo Medical and Surgical Clinic (Tokyo): Longstanding international clinic in Tokyo offering weight loss treatment programs, including GLP-1s, with English-speaking doctors.
Juniper: Telemedicine platform with English consultations, nationwide delivery and travel letters for medication.
E-Life Clinic: Offers online consultations and pricing packages for Ozempic, Mounjaro and Saxenda.

Important Factors to Consider

If you’re thinking about trying a GLP-1 medication like Ozempic, Mounjaro or Wegovy, it’s worth looking beyond the hype. These drugs can be effective, but they also come with real risks that shouldn’t be overlooked.

How GLP-1 Medications Work (& What to Expect)

One of the main ways GLP-1 medications like Ozempic work is by slowing gastric emptying. Put simply, food takes longer to leave your stomach and move into your intestines. This makes you feel full sooner and stay full for longer, reducing your appetite. The exact mechanism, however, is also what causes many of the most common side effects: nausea, bloating, a constant feeling of fullness, stomach pain and sometimes vomiting.

Studies show that in some cases, GLP-1 drugs can cause gastroparesis, a condition where the stomach doesn’t empty properly, leading to severely delayed digestion and awful side effects. Having lived with gastroparesis myself, I can say it’s more than an occasional upset stomach and will drastically impact your quality of life.

Don’t just take my word for it. In clinical trials, nausea was reported in about 44% of people taking higher doses of semaglutide, while vomiting affected roughly 25%—making these two of the most common side effects. That’s also why you need to factor in the ongoing cost of additional medications, like anti-nausea tablets, which are often needed to manage these symptoms.

Other side effects frequently reported with GLP-1 drugs include diarrhea, constipation, acid reflux and abdominal pain. These symptoms are often worse at higher doses or when the dose is increased too quickly. Because of these risks, it’s essential to carefully weigh the benefits of these medications against the possibility of long-term side effects.

These medications can be useful tools, but they’re not quick fixes and carry real risks. If you’re considering them in Japan, always start by speaking to your doctor and making sure you understand both the benefits and the downsides.