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Let’s Go to the Ueno Summer Festival – Tokyo’s Most Spirited Celebration | Arigato Travel
When summer hits Tokyo, Ueno Park transforms into a hub of tradition, music, food, and light. The Ueno Summer Festival (上野夏まつり) is one of Tokyo’s most exciting summer events, drawing in both locals and visitors with a month-long celebration full of Japanese culture and nostalgic energy. From lantern-lit evenings to the echoing sounds of taiko drums, this is a festival that essentially captures the essence of a Japanese summer. A Month of Festivities in the Center of Tokyo The Ueno Summer Festival is typically held over several weeks in mid-July through to early August, and is centered in Ueno Park and the Shinobazu Pond area. It’s not just a single event but a collection of mini-festivals packed into one season, which include: Toro Nagashi (Lantern Floating Ceremony) At Shinobazu Pond, Toro Nagashi lanterns light up the water with a soft glow and are one of the most peaceful moments of the Ueno Summer Festival. Attendees write wishes or memories on the paper lanterns, then release them onto the pond at sunset. The light of hundreds of floating lanterns is reflected on the pond, making it a deeply aesthetic moment and a wonderful photo opportunity. Bon Odori Dance Festival The Bon Odori Dance Festival invites everyone to dance in the central plaza of Ueno Park. Locals wear yukata and create circles around a central stage and dance to joyful traditional music. Beginners are also encouraged to join in! It's one of the best ways to get involved in the warm and welcoming atmosphere of a Japanese summer festival. Traditional music and dance performances Throughout the festival, there are outdoor stages at Ueno Park where taiko drum performances, shamisen music, and traditional dance performances are held. The powerful drumbeats resonate in the air, inviting festival goers to immerse themselves in the rhythms of Japanese summer culture. The performances bring great energy and tradition, and the mood around the park becomes electric. Colorful parades through the streets Weekends are typically filled with parades proceeding down the streets around Ueno Park. Performers, dancers, and musicians bring the streets alive, and music demonstrates the vibrancy of the Japanese summer tradition. The parades are the centerpiece of the summer festival and are filled with cheering crowds as the parade goes by. Food (yatai) and game stalls Lining the park's pathways, yatai stalls are a true taste of a Japanese summer. Yakisoba, takoyaki, and kakigori are traditional street foods that fill the air with delicious smells. The game stalls further add to the fun, with prizes and an assortment of old-fashioned festival games like ring toss and goldfish catching. The stalls provide a fun, family environment that makes walking through Ueno Park during the festival a fantastic experience. Of course, this is just a basic outline of what's available at the festival. After all, each weekend is something a little different, so no matter when you visit, you’re likely to catch something special. Whether it's the Lotus Viewing Deck decorated with numerous windchimes, watching amazing ice sculptures crafted before your very eyes, to an incredible must-see antique market, there is no end to the fun and adventures waiting in the lineup for Ueno's Summer Festival this year! What You’ll See, Hear, Taste, and Feel Sight: Imagine rows upon rows of glowing lanterns floating on the water at sunset, locals wearing yukatas dancing in unison, and colorful floats rolling past giant lotus leaves in Shinobazu Pond. The festival also includes a lantern art installation that lights up the park at night. Sound: You’ll hear the traditional taiko drums echoing from across the park, festival music filling the air during Bon Odori, and the excited chatter of families and friends enjoying the festival. Taste: Ueno Park becomes heaven on earth for street food lovers. You can enjoy takoyaki (octopus balls), yakisoba, kakigori (shaved ice) with fruit syrup, or even grilled squid on a stick. It’s the perfect spot to cool down with a cold drink and sample some of Japan’s most popular summer snacks. Feel: The festival atmosphere is warm and lively, like a big neighborhood gathering. The mixture of tradition and urban Tokyo creates a one-of-a-kind vibe—laid-back, yet full of energy. Plan Your Visit When: July 11th - August 11th (dates vary slightly each year, so check the official Ueno Summer Festival website or local tourism pages for updates and a full itinerary of events) Where: Ueno Park and Shinobazu Pond, Taito-ku, Tokyo How to Get There: By Train: Just a few minutes walk from Ueno Station (JR, Ginza Line, Hibiya Line). Look for the Ueno Park exit. Nearby Attractions: Ueno Zoo, Tokyo National Museum, and Ameyoko shopping street are all within walking distance and perfect for a full-day adventure. Summertime in Japan is truly a magical time of year, and there's no better way to experience this atmosphere at its fullest than at a matsuri. The Ueno Summer Festival is a month-long celebration of tradition, food, music, and so much more that is sure to leave you with an adventure you'll remember for years to come. With dances, parades, unique stalls, and other summertime events, there's no end to the fun found in Ueno as you dive into a world of culture. So if you're ready to beat the heat in one of the best ways possible, you won't want to miss out on the ever-amazing Ueno Summer Festival! Featured Photo Credit: kuremo Ready to add more amazing summer festivals to your Japan Itinerary? Let our expert Tailored Travel Team craft you a beautiful, culture-filled Japanese adventure like nothing you've ever seen before!
A Summer Cultural Journey Through Japan’s Artistic Soul | Arigato Travel
As a car speeds by the shore, slicing through the shimmering heat, it carries our imagination of a perfect summer. In Japan, summer isn’t just about stunning natural landscapes—it’s also a gateway to a world of vibrant cultural experiences. From traditional craft workshops to artistic strolls through contemporary art museums, Japan’s summer charm offers something truly special. There’s no end to the discoveries that can be made nationwide during the hotter months. So without further ado, here’s a curated guide to Japan's best artistic and cultural experiences this summer. Experience Japanese Art With Hands-on Craftsmanship Discover Traditional Stencil Dyeing at “Some no Sato Ochiai” Located near Shinjuku, Some no Sato Ochiai is a dyeing workshop with a history spanning 105 years. This storied establishment carries on the rich tradition of Japanese textile artistry, preserving techniques passed down through generations. But, it’s more than just a place to observe history; it offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in hands-on dyeing techniques, creating unique textile pieces with guidance from skilled artisans. Whether you're looking to explore a centuries-old craft or simply escape the summer heat into a calm, creative retreat, this workshop provides an enriching and memorable cultural experience. One of the standout experiences here is stencil dyeing, a technique that traces its origins back to China, ultimately being refined in Japan into a distinct and intricate art form. Visitors can experiment with a variety of stencils and natural dyes, combining creativity and tradition to craft their own masterpiece. Friendly artisans guide participants through the process step by step, ensuring that both adults and children can enjoy the experience regardless of skill level. But that’s not all. The workshop also offers other hands-on activities, including fabric printing and plant-based dyeing, catering to a wide range of creative interests. And, if you're lucky, you may even witness Takahashi Takayuki, a renowned artisan, demonstrating his signature “ink-flowing” technique, which creates mesmerizing, water-like patterns on fabric. Watching the delicate dye flow and settle is a true visual delight you’re sure to remember for the rest of your life. Some no Sato Ochiai offers a unique opportunity to experience Japan’s rich textile arts through hands-on dyeing workshops. Reservations are required, as some activities are held irregularly, so it is essential to check availability in advance. Whether you are a traveler looking for a memorable souvenir-making experience or a local seeking a relaxing and creative escape, this is the perfect place to immerse yourself in traditional craftsmanship and create your own beautifully dyed piece of history. Address: 2 Chome-3-6 Kamiochiai, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 161-0034, Japan Opening Hours: Tuesday - Sunday: 11 AM - 5 PM (closed Mondays) Website: https://www.ochiai-san.com/ Experience Pottery Making at “at Kiln Aoyama” Tucked away in Minato, Tokyo, at Kiln Aoyama offers a hands-on pottery experience right in the heart of the city. If you've ever wanted to try your hand at shaping clay but weren’t sure where to start, this studio makes the process easy and enjoyable. Whether you're a complete beginner or someone looking to refine your skills, the instructors provide just the right balance of guidance and creative freedom. The 90-minute session is designed to be both structured and fun. The first half is all about learning—an instructor walks you through the techniques and demonstrates the process. Then, the real fun begins. In the next 45 minutes, you get to create your own piece, whether it’s a cup, bowl, or plate. The studio provides you with everything you need, from high-quality clay to inspiration, so all you have to do is enjoy the process. Once you're done, your piece will be glazed and fired by the studio, ready for pickup in about a month. On a hot summer day, spending time in a cool, quiet studio, feeling the smooth clay in your hands, and focusing on the rhythm of shaping and molding can be an unexpectedly refreshing escape. Whether you’re looking for a unique keepsake or simply a relaxing way to spend an afternoon, this workshop offers a creative retreat from the summer heat. Address: Japan, 〒150-0021 Tokyo, Shibuya, Ebisunishi, 1 Chome−5−1 WM Yebisu, 1F Opening Hours: Thursday - Tuesday: 11 AM to 7 PM (closed Wednesday) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atkiln/?hl=en Tokyo’s Art Landmarks: Museums & Galleries The National Art Center Located in Roppongi, the National Art Center in Tokyo stands out as one of Japan’s most unique cultural spaces. Unlike traditional museums, this institution does not have a permanent collection. Instead, it serves as an ever-evolving platform for exhibitions, showcasing a diverse range of artistic expressions from Japan and beyond. The building itself, designed by architect Kisho Kurokawa, is an architectural masterpiece that seamlessly blends art with structure, making it a destination worth visiting even before stepping into an exhibition. One of the most striking features of The National Art Center is its expansive glass façade, which allows natural light to flood the space, creating a dynamic interplay between the artwork and its surroundings. Kurokawa’s design philosophy emphasized “symbiosis with nature,” which is evident in the fluid, wave-like architecture that reflects Japan’s aesthetic principles of minimalism and harmony with the environment. Beyond the exhibitions, the museum is designed as a multifunctional cultural space. Visitors can explore the art bookstore, participate in workshops, or simply enjoy the ambiance in the open, light-filled atrium. For those looking to extend their visit, the on-site restaurant and café provide a perfect place to reflect on the art over a meal or cup of coffee. Address: 7 Chome-22-2 Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo 106-8558, Japan Opening Hours: Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 10 AM - 6 PM. Friday, Saturday: 10 AM - 8 PM (closed Tuesdays) Admission Fee: Adults - 1800 yen College Student - 1000 yen High School Student - 500 yen Website: https://www.nact.jp/ Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo - MOT The MOT is one of Japan’s leading institutions for modern and contemporary art. The museum houses a diverse collection of works spanning paintings, sculptures, installations, video art, and media-based exhibitions, offering visitors an ever-evolving insight into the world of contemporary creativity. Designed with an expansive and open layout, MOT allows visitors to explore its galleries at their own pace, making it an ideal space for both deep artistic contemplation and casual discovery. Its rotating exhibitions highlight not only renowned international artists but also emerging Japanese talent, ensuring that each visit offers something new and thought-provoking. For those interested in Japan’s contemporary art scene, MOT serves as both a cultural landmark and an engaging creative space, seamlessly integrating global influences with Japan’s distinct artistic vision. Address: 4 Chome-1-1 Miyoshi, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0022, Japan Opening Hours: Tuesday - Sunday: 10 AM - 6 PM Admission (varies depending on the exhibit): Adults - 500 yen to 2000 yen College Students - Free to 1800 yen High & Junior High - Free to 1800 yen Elementary & younger - Free Website: https://www.mot-art-museum.jp/ Ghibli Museum A must-visit for fans of Studio Ghibli, this museum brings the world of animation to life with its enchanting exhibits, featuring meticulously crafted displays that highlight the artistic genius of Hayao Miyazaki. Visitors can step into immersive, hand-drawn worlds that capture the essence of beloved Ghibli films such as My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Princess Mononoke. The museum also includes a short, exclusive Ghibli film that can only be viewed on-site, offering a unique cinematic experience. The whimsical architecture, designed with an organic and playful aesthetic, perfectly embodies the spirit of Ghibli. From exploring the rooftop garden with a giant Laputa robot to discovering hidden passageways, every corner of the museum is an adventure waiting to be explored. Be sure to visit the museum’s cozy café, where you can enjoy themed treats inspired by Ghibli movies. Tickets must be purchased in advance as entry is limited and demand is high. Address: 1 Chome-1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka, Tokyo 181-0013, Japan Opening Hours: Wednesday - Monday: 10 AM - 6 PM (closed Tuesdays) Admission Fee: 19 and over - 1000 yen 13 to 18 - 700 yen 7 to 12 - 400 yen 4 to 6 - 100 yen 3 and under - Free Website: https://www.ghibli-museum.jp/ Okuno Building Amid Ginza’s sleek luxury boutiques and high-rise buildings, the Okuno Building stands as a quiet yet powerful reminder of Tokyo’s artistic evolution. Originally constructed in 1932 as an upscale apartment complex, this historic building has since been transformed into a hub for independent art galleries, preserving its pre-war charm while fostering a vibrant contemporary art scene. Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by dimly lit hallways, creaky wooden floors, and an old-fashioned cage elevator, still in operation after nearly a century. Unlike the polished, modern galleries found elsewhere in the city, the exhibitions here feel intimate and personal. Many of the galleries are run by the artists themselves, offering an opportunity to engage in conversation and gain deeper insights into their work. The art on display spans a wide spectrum, from traditional Japanese paintings to experimental mixed-media installations, ensuring that no two visits are ever the same. Beyond the galleries, the building also houses vintage boutiques and design shops, making it a haven for those who appreciate both art and history. The Okuno Building is a rare place where time seems to stand still—where past and present, history and creativity exist in harmony. For those looking to experience a different side of Ginza, away from its luxury storefronts, this hidden gem offers a glimpse into Tokyo’s independent art scene, where every corner tells a story and every space invites discovery. Address: 1 Chome-9-8 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan Opening Hours: 7 days a week Evening Art Experience: teamLab Planets As the sun sets over Tokyo, the city’s energy transforms, and nowhere is this more evident than at teamLab Planets. Unlike traditional museums, teamLab’s exhibitions are not meant to be simply observed—they are meant to be felt, walked through, and fully experienced. Using digital technology, light, and water, this immersive art space creates dreamlike environments where visitors become part of the artwork itself. Address: 6 Chome-1-16 Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0061, Japan Opening Hours: 7 days a week: 9 AM - 10 PM Admission: Adults (18 years and above) - 3800 yen Junior High/High School - 2800 yen Children (Ages 4-12) 1500 yen Under 3 years - Free Disability discount - 1900 yen Website: https://www.teamlab.art/jp/e/planets/ Whether you are deeply passionate about art or simply looking for a unique way to spend your summer, Japan offers a rich cultural landscape filled with unforgettable experiences. Imagine shaping your own ceramic piece in a quiet pottery studio, feeling the cool clay in your hands as you mold it into something truly your own. Picture yourself exploring a museum where contemporary masterpieces and thought-provoking exhibitions open new perspectives on art and creativity. Step into the immersive world of
The Art of Cold Brewing Japanese Green Tea | Arigato Travel
For those who share a keen interest in Japan, anime and J-dramas/movies must have been a gold nugget for learning more about the country’s rich culture. After all, who didn’t try ramen for the first time after watching their favorite character gulp down a hot bowl? Or grab some sushi after seeing the image of a glistening platter of colorful pieces of fish? Aren’t these a little bit cliche, you may ask? It is a question of perspective, I would say. We shouldn't ignore the fact that some of these have a special place in the lives of the locals. Take Japanese green tea (ocha), for example. Whenever a protagonist enters a place, he is often offered ocha as a form of greeting. And in summer, when he comes home, exhausted from the heat of the day, he immediately goes to the fridge. He opens the door, takes out a jar of cold, oh, sweet cold, green tea, and pours it into a glass to quench his thirst. Doesn’t it make you want to do the same? Ocha holds an essential meaning in the hearts of the Japanese. As we will see down below, it isn’t just a drink, it is a way of life! Summer is just around the corner, so let’s discover what makes ocha so special, and above all, let me share with you the secrets of brewing it cold! Where it all begins: Camellia Sinensis First and foremost, we must understand the origins of green tea. Ocha, just like black tea, or any other tea, all come from the same plant, known as Camellia sinensis. A plant that can grow up to 30 feet if left alone, and live more than 100 years when properly cultivated. It requires a combination of good climate, altitude, and soil to grow quality tea leaves. Indeed, the plant usually flourishes at an altitude that ranges between 2000 and 6500 feet. The higher the altitude gets, the finer the quality will be. This evergreen shrub originates from China and the Northeastern part of India (Assam), where two different varieties can be found: The Camellia Sinensis Sinensis and the Camellia Sinensis Assamica. The former has small leaves and is native to China, Yunnan Province, to be precise. The Sinensis variety has the advantage of leaving a delicate taste, typically found in our dear ocha or white tea. The Assamica, however, was first discovered in Assam, a northeastern state of India, located south of the eastern Himalayas. The leaves are comparatively bigger and have a stronger taste. Because of this, it is often used to make strong black tea. The legend behind the plant When it comes to origins, green tea has a lot of legends to offer. One of them is the story of the Indian/Persian sage Daruma (Bodhidharma), the 28th patriarch of Mahayana Buddhism and the founder of Chan Buddhism (precursor of Zen Buddhism). According to the myth, around the 5th to 6th century C.E., Daruma arrived at the Shaolin temple in China, and meditated there for nine long years, incidentally losing his legs while doing so. Upon approaching enlightenment, however, he fell asleep. Unable to contain his frustration and anger, regretful of neglecting his devotions, he cut off his own eyelids and threw them upon the ground. In the spot they fell, a tea plant grew, one which, when made into a beverage, would ward off slumber and allow fellow monks to meditate without any hurdles. Another legend credits Emperor Shen Nung (also known as Shen Nong) as the discoverer of tea. The story goes that, in 2737 BC, while the emperor was sitting beneath a tree, his servant was preparing and bringing boiled water. By a twist of fate, just as he was about to fetch the hot drink for his master, some leaves blew from the tree and fell into the water. Shen Nung, being a renowned herbalist, decided to taste the fortuitous concoction. The tree was a Camellia Sinensis, and the newly discovered beverage became tea. Green tea’s first introduction to Japan Besides the legends, there is the history of global trade. Let us take a small detour and enlighten our minds as to how the Sinensis variety came to Japan from China. The habit of drinking tea in Chinese culture dates back long before it was even heard of in the West. Evidence suggests that traces of tea could be found in a tomb dating as far back as the Han dynasty (206 BC - 220 AD). However, it was during the Tang dynasty (618 AD - 906 AD) that it gained popularity and became the national drink of the country. Buddhist monks also began to harvest and use tea as a natural medicine, using it as an aid to meditation, to strengthen their focus, and to fight sleep. At the same time, in an era of world trade practices, many monks would travel back and forth to China and/or India to further their knowledge about Buddhism. Among them, the monks Saichō and Kūkai are said to have been the first ones to bring tea seeds from China to Japan, in the early Heian period (794 AD - 1185 AD). In AD 815, another monk named Eichu brewed tea and offered it to Emperor Saga. It is believed that the monk had traveled to China to learn Kissa’s method (drinking tea). The emperor was so pleased with it that he encouraged the cultivation of tea, and the practice of Kissa spread amongst the elite and noble class. It was only after the return of monk Eisai (founder of the Rinzai school, a branch of Zen Buddhism) from his travels abroad that tea and Kissa became widespread, in 1190. He not only wrote two very successful volumes of the “Kissa Yojoki”, describing the merits of drinking tea, but also discovered a new method of preparing it. Powdering streamed leaves into what we know today as Matcha, and mixing it with hot water with the aid of a bamboo whisk. This newly found method, combined with his Zen lifestyle, heavily influenced the basis of today’s Chado (tea ceremony ~ literal meaning: “the way of tea”). No wonder he is now called the “Father of Tea”! Different types of Green tea in Japan Now that we have learned about the origins, let's dive into some of the diverse varieties of green tea that you could enjoy brewing cold: Matcha: Cultivated using a shade-growing technique, meaning that it was under cover for twenty to thirty days before being harvested. The leaves are then steamed, dried, and finely powdered. Sencha: The most popular green tea served in Japan, it makes up around 80% of the country’s production. Contrary to Matcha, it is cultivated under full sunlight. Once they are harvested, the folia are immediately steamed to not only halt the fermentation process, but also to avoid oxidation. After that, the leaves are rolled and dried. Sencha has a refreshing taste with grassy notes. Gyokuro: Similarly to Matcha, it is also cultivated using a shading technique, albeit for a shorter time. The leaves are then steamed, dried, and rolled into a needle-like shape. It is considered a prime tea in Japan and has an umami flavor to it. Hojicha: Just like Sensha, it is cultivated in the open fields, where it gets exposed to a lot of sunlight. Once harvested, the folia are steamed, dried, rolled, and then roasted. It is known for its smoky and rustic taste. Genmaicha: This tea has the unique feature of being a mix of green tea and roasted, popped brown rice (genmai). It has a toasted flavor that is combined with hints of sweetness. Of course, these are just a few to give you an idea, but be creative and try some other varieties as well! Now, for the best part, let’s get brewing, people! Method No. 1: Hot Brew over Ice A simple 5-step method: Brew your tea as you would normally do with hot water. Extract the tea leaves from your chosen crockery, and let the infusion get to room temperature. Once done, put the brew in the fridge for a minimum of 4 to 5 hours. Take the tea out of the fridge and pour it on top of the ice. Last but not least, enjoy! Method No. 2: Reicha A similar method to the former one, but still quite different and slightly more intricate. Add the tea leaves to your teapot or Kyusu (traditional Japanese teapot). Spout a minimal amount of hot water (around 10 ml per serving) into the vessel. Let the leaves spread. Add ice to the infusion. This step will allow the tea to cool in temperature. Once done, pour water into the mix. Allow it to infuse for 1 minute, and voilà! Method No. 3: Mizudashi The Mizudashi method is one of the easiest. You just need to follow these simple steps: Put the tea leaves inside your teapot. Add cold water to it. Place your infusion in the fridge and let it steep for a minimum of 4 to 5 hours. For a stronger flavor, let it infuse for longer. Mizu in Japanese means water. Therefore, as the name suggests, water is the key element for this method. Method No. 4: Kōridashi The Kōridashi method, also known as Shinobicha, is best used for high-quality tea like Gyokuro. Kōri means ice, so as you will see below, ice is the pillar of this method. Lay down the ice cubes of filtered water inside your teapot. Place the tea leaves directly on top of the ice cubes. Let it melt and start the infusion on its own. Strain it, pour it into a cup and drink it! Method No. 5: Latte All the methods above simply use water, but what if you were craving something creamier, like, for example, a latte? No worries, I have got you covered. First, add ice to a tall glass. Pour your preferred milk on top of it. Whisk your preferred green tea powder with cold, filtered water in a separate bowl. Let it dissolve completely. Add the newly created tea to the glass of iced milk. This will cause a layered effect, but if you prefer, you can also gently stir all the ingredients together to create a smooth and uniform drink. Method No. 6: Japanese Green Tea Soda Yes, you have read me right! Now we are going to make Green tea soda. No, it isn’t a weird combination… well, maybe. But even so, the result and the taste will make it worth your while. Just try it! Place your tea leaves inside the teapot. Pour hot water onto them, just enough to cover them. Wait for 1 to 3 minutes, let it infuse. Now pour your favorite carbonated water (it can be flavored - for example, lemon or lime versions go well with green tea). Strain it and top it with ice! Excellent in all aspects! Cold brewing methods are not only fun to make and creative, but they also tend to have some additional health benefits compared to hot brewing. Cold brew is far less bitter, as the absence of heat produces less caffeine and catechins. It offers a plethora of vitamins and antioxidants, even more than what you may find in hot tea. And to top it off, it has a smoother taste. Combine all this with Japanese green tea, and here you have the perfect combination for excellent health! Featured Photo Credit: New Africa Looking for more ways to beat the heat this Summer? Check out our Summer Food Tours for an unforgettable experience!
Canes & Tales, Osaka’s Newest and Greatest Cocktail Bar! | Arigato Travel
There’s nothing better than a great drink! Whether it’s to celebrate a special occasion, end a hard day of work, or just treat yourself, there is nothing better than a perfectly curated cocktail. And with Waldorf Astoria opening a brand new amazing cocktail bar, Canes & Tales, there is no better place to do this now than in Osaka! Transporting guests into a long-lost world of glamour and sophistication, this amazing destination bar inspired by the 1930s Golden Age of Jazz is THE place to be in the city! Following their highly successful grand opening in Japan’s culinary capital, we wanted to take a deeper look at this incredible bar and its story, and we even managed to get some exclusive comments from the team! The City, The Bar, The Hotel, and The Story Located on the 28th floor of the ever-glamorous hotel Waldorf Astoria Osaka, Canes & Tales celebrated its incredibly successful grand opening in June 2025. As part of this amazing day, they even invited two world-class bartenders, further setting the stage for this destination bar to become a must-visit spot in Osaka. “Our grand opening was truly a special day.” Said Dominic Dijkstra, the Director of Mixology, when we asked. “We welcomed two incredible guest bartenders: Giancarlo Mancino, the owner of Mancino Vermouth, and James Grant, the Global World Class Bartender of the Year 2021, from Library Bar in Toronto, ranked #51 in North America’s 50 Best Bars 2025. Their presence set the tone for what Canes & Tales is about: world-class cocktails, collaboration, and hospitality at the highest level.” And it’s not hard to see just how important these three factors are, being an integral part of your Canes & Tales journey from the moment you enter to the time you leave. As soon as you step inside, you will be greeted not only by the warm, friendly, and welcoming team but also by the uniquely crafted bar interior, which transports you into a world of luxury. Every aspect of the program is meticulously crafted by Dominic, but of course, he’s not alone, being assisted by Bar Manager Masahiko Ohama and Bar Supervisor Shima Ishikawa. Together, these three craft a journey of international experience that emphasizes hospitality and cocktail quality, providing something that all guests can enjoy, no matter their background. “The reception so far has been fantastic,” said Dominic, “with guests, media, and industry peers embracing our vision and energy. It’s been exciting to see Osaka’s cocktail lovers and visitors connect with our menu and atmosphere.” There is no end to Canes & Tales' dedication to its customers and the story it has worked so hard to carefully craft. When constructing the bar, Waldorf wanted to make sure it was true to the luxury hotel's roots, New York, and what better way to do that than by celebrating the Golden Age of Jazz? Of course, being a destination bar is no easy feat, and no one knows this better than the team at Canes & Tales. From creating a themed menu to delivering hospitality at the highest level, nothing is ever overlooked or too small for the team to consider. “Being a destination cocktail bar in Japan is both an honor and a challenge. The standard here is incredibly high, so we push ourselves every day to create something memorable.” Dominic said when talking about the topic. “It means working with precision, respect for tradition, and a passion for innovation. We want Canes & Tales to be more than a bar. It’s about storytelling, hospitality, and creating a space where cultures connect.” This dedication isn’t just limited to the inside of the bar; it’s also true to the location and how that further influences their creations. Osaka is Japan’s foodie heart, so having amazing food and unique, delicious flavors is an essential component of the culinary world in the city. But, don’t be fooled, that same creativity extends to drinks, too! In fact, in one of his comments to us, Dominic probably said it best: “Osaka is known as the kitchen of Japan, a city that thrives on flavor, creativity, and hospitality. But beyond food, there’s an incredible bar culture here that deserves just as much attention.” With this in mind, the team has put much focus and care into not only the food menu but also the cocktails. Creating a themed journey that is ever-changing and updating with time, Canes & Tales proves that there is more to Osaka’s culinary scene than just great food. As of their launch, their menu is currently based on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Tales of the Jazz Age, an amazing short story series that further embraces Waldorf Astoria’s New York roots. There are 11 stories in total and, thus, 11 perfectly themed and curated cocktails, providing guests a journey through a time that might be past, but certainly not beyond enjoying. And, if you’re worried about whether this means the food falls behind, you couldn’t be more wrong. The dishes at the bar don’t just perfectly pair with the cocktails. They are also amazing representations of the combination of Japan and New York, creating a delicious list of fusion goodness that celebrates both culture and heritage. “For us, it’s important to be part of that conversation and contribute to a sense of community. We want Canes & Tales to be a space that not only pushes standards but also supports and collaborates with other bars in the city, helping the entire scene flourish together.” All in all, there is certainly no doubt that Waldorf Astoria has created a bar that embodies the term “destination”. Containing great drinks, amazing food, and incredible hospitality all themed around a timeless era of music, energy, and fun, there is simply no way to overlook Canes & Tales when in Osaka. And although it may be new, it’s quickly becoming a staple part of the city, creating a place for people to come together, no matter their background. So if you’re in the area, we hope you take time to relax, meet new people, and have a mind-blowing drink at Canes & Tales. We most certainly will be! Visit Canes & Tales at Address: Japan, 〒530-0011 Osaka, Kita Ward, Ofukacho, 5−54 グラングリーン大阪 南館 Opening Hours: Wednesday - Sunday, 5 pm - 12 am (closed Monday and Tuesday) Phone Number: +81676557111 Website: https://www.hilton.com/ja/hotels/osawawa-waldorf-astoria-osaka/dining/canes-tales/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canesandtales/?hl=en Featured Photo Credit: Canes & Tales Love great cocktails, craft beer and nightlife? Why not join one of our expert local guides for our Umeda craft beer tour in Osaka, our luxury cocktail tour in Tokyo, or explore the world of sake, whisky and cocktails in elegant Kyoto?