From May 11 to September 6, 2026, Tokyo Tower presents the summer projection-mapping event "TOKYO TOWER CITY LIGHT FANTASIA ~Summer landscape 2026~".
With the beautiful night view from the Main Deck as the backdrop, the show uses projection mapping to evoke nostalgic, heartfelt scenes of a quintessential Japanese summer. Hydrangeas in a light rain, a summer sky with towering thunderheads, sudden showers, sunflowers glowing in the red of sunset, and finally layers of fireworks blooming across the sky turn Tokyo’s night into a dreamlike panorama.
From June 19 to September 6, a centerpiece installation of bamboo and driftwood candles by CANDLE JUNE appears within the projection, creating a fresh Japanese style × summer play of light and shadow. Newly added laser lights and pattern lights further heighten the immersion. Delicate yellow lights evoking fireflies float through the summer space, while colorful fireworks patterns spread beneath your feet.
Come to Tokyo Tower, take in the Tokyo nightscape, feel the flow of a Japanese summer, and revel in this visual feast!
May 11, 2026-Sep 6, 2026
Tokyo
SHIBUYA SKY observation deck gets a panoramic upgrade
9.1
SHIBUYA SKY is an open-air rooftop observatory atop Shibuya Scramble Square in Tokyo, perched about 229m above sea level and delivering a breathtaking 360° panorama of the city.
Here you can gaze down at the famous Shibuya Crossing—often called the world’s busiest intersection—and look out toward Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree. On clear days, you can even spot Mount Fuji. Ride the Sky Elevator from the 14th floor straight to the observation level, with kinetic ceiling lights along the way. On the 46th floor, the indoor Sky Gallery features digital installations and interactive art. Up on the rooftop, Sky Stage includes the glass walkway Sky Edge and the Cloud Hammock loungers—prime spots for capturing cinematic sunsets, neon-lit crowds, or the night skyline.
After dark, the Crossing Light show illuminates the sky every 30 mins, setting a romantic mood. Day or night, SHIBUYA SKY puts you at the heart of the city, inviting you to feel Tokyo’s rhythm and the play of light and shadow from a fresh perspective.
Tokyo
teamLab Planets Tokyo - Enter a Changing Art World
7.3
teamLab Planets TOKYO is an immersive art museum located in Toyosu, Tokyo. Visitors can reach the museum in approximately 15 minutes by taxi from Tokyo Station or via a 15-minute drive from Haneda Airport. This unique museum invites guests to fully engage with art by walking through water and experiencing interactive installations. The artworks are dynamic, changing in response to the presence and movements of visitors, creating a personalized experience for each individual. At teamLab Planets, guests can expect to perceive and become one with the art, offering a blend of visual and sensory experiences that are both captivating and thought-provoking. This innovative approach to art encourages exploration and interaction, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. Consider planning your visit to teamLab Planets TOKYO to experience this extraordinary fusion of art and technology!
Tokyo
Japan firefly season: top places to chase the glow
9.6
On early summer nights, fireflies drift through forests and along streams like fallen stardust. This 2026 firefly viewing guide pairs perfectly with chartered transport—no rushing for the last train, no fumbling through darkness—so you can soak in these seasonal night scenes with ease.
📅 Best viewing time
Late May through late June is peak firefly season across Japan. The farther north you go, the later they emerge. If you're planning a firefly trip, book your itinerary ahead of time.
📍 Top firefly-chasing spots
🌿 Tokyo and nearby
Hotaru Park
HANA·BIYORI
Close to central Tokyo—perfect for first-time firefly seekers or anyone who'd rather not venture far.
🌿 Kyoto, Osaka, Nara
Uji City Botanical Park
Okuyama Ameyama Nature Park
Ishizumi River
Historic streets, flowing streams, and fireflies—magical nighttime atmosphere.
🌿 Kanto and Kansai favorites
Genji Firefly Village, Chiba Prefecture
Amano River, Shiga Prefecture
Kishigawa, Wakayama Prefecture
Fewer crowds, sweeping views, and great for photos.
🌿 Chubu and Kyushu hidden gems
Hotaru Park, Gifu Prefecture
Nabana no Sato, Mie Prefecture
Kikuchi, Kumamoto Prefecture
Deep-mountain fireflies are even more spectacular—like stepping into a fairy tale.
📝 Firefly viewing tips
1. Fireflies are sensitive to bright light and noise. Turn off your phone's flash and keep your voice low.
2. Wear long sleeves and pants, and apply insect repellent—mosquitoes are active at night.
3. Viewing conditions depend heavily on weather and temperature. Check local firefly reports before heading out.
May 2026-Jun 2026
Tokyo Sumida River Fireworks Festival: A Breathtaking Spectacle Lighting Up the Summer Night Sky
10
When you think of a summer tradition in Tokyo, the "Sumida River Fireworks Festival" is a must-see. This year on July 25, about 20,000 beautiful fireworks will color the night sky over the Sumida River, enveloping the entire city in a romantic summer atmosphere. Furthermore, the observation decks at the Tokyo Skytree will have special operating hours this year. You can enjoy a luxurious collaboration of the city's night view and fireworks that you can't experience from the ground!
📌 "A Complete Guide to the Two Main Venues"
Venue 1 (between Sakurabashi Bridge and Kototoibashi Bridge): A spectacular show of fireworks and Tokyo's symbols
Highlights: This is the venue where the traditional fireworks competition is held. It's perfect for photography enthusiasts, as you can capture a uniquely Tokyo-esque magnificent view of "Fireworks, Sensō-ji, and Tokyo Skytree" in a single photo.
Venue 2 (between Komagatabashi Bridge and Umayabashi Bridge): High-impact entertainment
Highlights: The large number of fireworks launched in quick succession, blooming one after another in the night sky, is a breathtaking sight. The excitement at the venue reaches its peak. This is recommended for those who want to experience the powerful fireworks with both sight and sound.
🚇 "Travel and Transportation Tips"
Nearest Stations: Asakusa Station, Kuramae Station, Oshiage Station. The surrounding areas will be extremely crowded on the day of the festival. When leaving, please follow the staff's directions and cooperate by proceeding in an orderly and unhurried manner.
Regarding Viewing from the Observation Deck: For those with special operating hours tickets for the Tokyo Skytree, viewing within the observation deck is standing room only. Please refrain from saving spots with picnic sheets or other items. Also, while bringing in food and drinks is prohibited, light meals will be available for purchase at the facility.
Weather Advisory: As a general rule, the fireworks festival will be held even in rain, but tickets are generally non-refundable and non-exchangeable, even if viewing is not possible due to severe weather or other conditions. Please be sure to check the latest official information and weather forecast before you go.