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Best Things to Do and See in Tokyo in October: Events, Festivals, Halloween Events & More

Best Things to Do and See in Tokyo in October: Events, Festivals, Halloween Events & More

Last updated: 23 September 2024

October in Tokyo brings a perfect mix of autumn colors and lively Halloween festivities. The city's streets come alive with seasonal energy, offering travelers a unique experience.

Here, we’ll highlight events in Tokyo and nearby areas, including food festivals, anime collaborations, and Halloween celebrations, to help you enjoy the season.

(This page contains promotions)

Table of Contents
  1. Theme Park and Tourist Spot Events
  2. Traditional Festivals
  3. Seasonal Flower Events
  4. Food & Other Festivals
  5. Flea Market
  6. Make the most of Tokyo in October!

Theme Park and Tourist Spot Events

Tokyo Tower Highball Garden 2024 (Minato City)

Tokyo Tower Highball Garden 2024 (Minato City)

This beer garden is held at two unique locations: in front of Tokyo Tower’s main entrance and on the rooftop of Foot Town. The setting is what makes this event truly special, offering an open-air atmosphere where you can enjoy drinks and food while gazing up at Tokyo Tower.

A must-try drink is the "Cho-Ten Highball" available in front of the main entrance. Served in a frosty mug packed with ice, this highball combines the rich flavor of whiskey with a hint of lemon and extra-strong carbonation—perfect for a hot day. Only venues meeting Suntory's high standards can offer this premium highball. Pair it with the "Tokyo Tower Combo," featuring a crispy, oversized cod cutlet and a ketchup design of Tokyo Tower—a fun, Instagram-worthy dish. On the Foot Town rooftop, enjoy an all-you-can-eat Genghis Khan lamb barbecue.

Event Details
1F Main Entrance
TOKYO TOWER “CHO-TEN” HIGHBALL GARDEN
・Location: Tokyo Tower 1F Main Entrance
・Dates: April 18–October 6, 2024
・Hours: Weekdays 4 PM–10 PM / Weekends & holidays 12 PM–10 PM
Last order at 9:30 PM. May close due to inclement weather.

Foot Town Rooftop
TOKYO TOWER “ROOF TOP” HIGHBALL GARDEN
・Location: Tokyo Tower Foot Town Rooftop
・Dates: April 11–October 14, 2024
・Hours: 5 PM–9:30 PM daily
・Cost: 120-minute all-you-can-eat and drink
Adults (20+): 5,800 yen / Minors: priced separately

NAKED MOMIJI AQUARIUM (Shinagawa)

NAKED MOMIJI AQUARIUM (Shinagawa)

At Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa, located on the grounds of Shinagawa Prince Hotel, creative company NAKED, INC. presents a special autumn event for the first time. This event blends stunning digital autumn foliage with sea life, transforming the aquarium into a world filled with deep red hues.

In the aquarium's display area, visitors can experience scenes like rain-soaked autumn leaves and illuminated night foliage. The jellyfish zone is decorated with full moon motifs, creating a magical "Moon Viewing Spot." Don't miss the dolphin performance, Harvest Festival (Day Ver.), where dolphins perform high jumps in a show themed around the autumn harvest.

Additionally, "Akane Chaya" offers seasonal treats like chestnut penguin Mont Blanc and full-moon purple sweet potato tea, available until November 17, 2024. With autumn leaves, moon viewing, and seasonal sweets, this event promises a unique Japanese autumn experience.

Event Details
・Location: Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa
・Dates: September 13–October 17, 2024
・Hours: 10 AM–8 PM (last entry 7 PM) / October 5: 10 AM–7:30 PM for the special "Chill Night Aquarium" event
・Admission: Adults 2,500 yen (Attractions: 500 yen per ride)

  • Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa
    マクセル アクアパーク品川
    • Address 4-10-30 Takanawa, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8611

TV Anime "Jujutsu Kaisen" x Tokyo Skytree® Jujutsu Corridor (Oshiage)

TV Anime "Jujutsu Kaisen" x Tokyo Skytree(R) Jujutsu Kaisen Key Visual ©Akutami Gege/Shueisha, Jujutsu Kaisen Production Committee ©TOKYO-SKYTREE
TV Anime "Jujutsu Kaisen" x Tokyo Skytree(R) Jujutsu Kaisen Key Visual ©Akutami Gege/Shueisha, Jujutsu Kaisen Production Committee ©TOKYO-SKYTREE

Tokyo Skytree® is hosting its first-ever collaboration event with the popular anime Jujutsu Kaisen, which depicts battles between curses born from human negative emotions and the sorcerers who exorcise them. The event, TV Anime "Jujutsu Kaisen" x Tokyo Skytree® Jujutsu Corridor, promises a unique experience only available at the Skytree.

At 350 meters above ground, the "SKYTREE ROUND THEATER®" will transform the windows of the Tembo Deck into massive screens showcasing special footage. Visitors can also enjoy exclusive photo ops with the characters, themed lighting, and other exciting attractions. Limited-edition goods featuring special key visuals and chibi versions of the characters will be available, along with exclusive café menu items. Additionally, special "bromide ticket sets" featuring unique key visuals will be sold for the event.

Dive into the world of Jujutsu Kaisen by watching, snapping photos, shopping, and dining!

Event Details
・Location: Tokyo Skytree Tembo Deck, Tembo Galleria, and more
・Tembo Deck and Galleria require separate entry tickets
・Dates: September 25–December 22, 2024
・Hours: 10 AM–10 PM (last entry at 9 PM, varies by day)
・Admission: Advance Tickets: Tembo Deck + Galleria: Weekdays 3,100 yen / Holidays 3,400 yen; Tembo Deck only: Weekdays 2,100 yen / Holidays 2,300 yen | Same-day Web Tickets: Tembo Deck + Galleria: Weekdays 3,500 yen / Holidays 3,800 yen; Tembo Deck only: Weekdays 2,400 yen / Holidays 2,600 yen

Oktoberfest in Tokyo Skytree Town® 2024 (Oshiage)

Oktoberfest in Tokyo Skytree Town® 2024 (Oshiage)

Experience authentic German food and culture at the first-ever Oktoberfest in Tokyo Skytree Town® 2024. Featuring unique beers like the fruity, aromatic "Guild Pale Wheat" and various fruit-flavored beers rarely found in Japan, this event offers a taste of Germany.

Highlights include the massive "Yard Glass" (holding 3L of beer—equivalent to six 500ml glasses), a giant schnitzel larger than your face, and a 30cm spiral sausage. Soft drinks are also available for non-alcoholic options.

The venue is filled with large tents, and staff dressed in traditional German attire enhance the festive atmosphere, complete with German folk music in the background.

Event Details
・Location: Tokyo Skytree Town 4F Sky Arena
・Dates: September 28–October 20, 2024 (held rain or shine; canceled in severe weather)
・Hours: 11 AM–9 PM (last order at 8:30 PM)
・Admission: Free

Tokyo Disney Resort® Halloween (Maihama)

©Disney
©Disney

Tokyo Disney Resort is hosting its special Disney Halloween event, transforming the entire Maihama area with Halloween-themed programs at Disney hotels, the Disney Resort Line, and Ikspiari®.

At Tokyo Disneyland, the park is decorated for the Villains’ Halloween Party, a dark yet thrilling celebration hosted by Disney's famous villains. During the day, the Villains Halloween “Into the Frenzy” parade brings the park to life, while at night, vibrant fireworks fill the skies over both parks during the Night High Halloween show.

Over at Tokyo DisneySea’s Mediterranean Harbor, Disney characters dressed in pumpkin and candy-themed costumes welcome guests for the Disney Halloween Greeting. Throughout the event, characters in both parks will be fully costumed, offering guests a special Halloween experience.

Event Details
・Location: Tokyo Disney Resort
・Dates: October 1–November 7, 2024
・Hours: 9 AM–9 PM (November 1: Tokyo DisneySea only 9 AM–6:30 PM; other days vary, check the official website for details)
・Admission: Variable pricing, check the official website for details

・Tokyo Disneyland: Villains Halloween “Into the Frenzy”
Show duration: Approx. 45 minutes (once daily)

Tokyo DisneySea: Disney Halloween Greeting
Show duration: Approx. 15 minutes (twice daily)

Traditional Festivals

Kawagoe Festival (Kawagoe, Saitama)

The Kawagoe Festival, rooted in the Reitaisai of Hikawa Shrine held annually on October 14, is a celebration that includes the Jinkosai and Dashi float processions. Recognized as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset and listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, the festival’s highlight is the Dashi event, where elaborately crafted floats parade through the city center. The sight of multiple floats passing each other is a breathtaking spectacle.

The festival's most exciting moment is the Hikkawase, where several floats face off, accompanied by flutes, drums, and dances, as lantern bearers hoist their lanterns high. The front of each float features musicians performing traditional festival music with flutes, drums, and cymbals, along with graceful dances.

For those unable to attend, the Kawagoe Festival Museum displays two floats from the event on a rotating basis, offering a glimpse of the festival's splendor year-round.

Event Details
・Location: Kawagoe City, central area
・Dates: October 19–20, 2024
・Hours: Traffic control from 10 AM–10 PM

37th Tokyo International Film Festival (Hibiya, Yurakucho, Marunouchi, Ginza)

(Image photo; photo: PIXTA)
(Image photo; photo: PIXTA)

he Tokyo International Film Festival is one of Asia’s largest film festivals, bringing together outstanding films from around the world. It offers a platform for filmmakers and fans to celebrate new talent and cinematic achievements. Held annually in late October, the main venues this year are once again in Hibiya, Yurakucho, Marunouchi, and Ginza.

The 2024 Opening Ceremony will take place on October 28 at the Tokyo Takarazuka Theater, while the Closing Ceremony will be held on November 6 at TOHO Cinemas Hibiya (Screen 12).

During the festival, films will be screened at major theaters, including Marunouchi TOEI, Marunouchi Piccadilly, TOHO Cinemas Hibiya, and Yurakucho Yomiuri Hall, as well as smaller venues like Kadokawa Cinema Yurakucho, Cine Switch Ginza, Human Trust Cinema Yurakucho, and TOHO Cinemas Chanter.

Event Details
・Location: Hibiya, Yurakucho, Marunouchi, Ginza
・Dates: October 28–November 6, 2024
・Hours: Varies by day and venue
・Admission: Varies by day and venue

Seasonal Flower Events

Showa Memorial Park Cosmos Festival (Tachikawa City)

Showa Memorial Park Cosmos Festival (Tachikawa City)

Spanning across Tachikawa and Akishima in Tokyo, Showa Memorial Park hosts the Cosmos Festival in one of the largest cosmos fields in the city, covering a vast 20,000 square meters.

There are three main flower fields: "Hana no Oka" features approximately 4 million yellow cosmos, including varieties like Lemon Bright, which bloom from late August to late September. In the "Hirappa South Field," about 50,000 yellow cosmos varieties, such as Yellow Garden and Yellow Campus, bloom from early to late October. Meanwhile, "Hirappa East Field" showcases about 200,000 Cosmos Sensation, also blooming in October. The staggered blooming periods allow visitors to enjoy vibrant cosmos flowers from mid-September through late October.

Throughout the park, photo spots are set up for visitors to capture the perfect shot, including a blue door and a swing in "Hana no Oka" that stand out against the yellow cosmos. In "Hirappa South Field," there’s a yellow door and a real railway track for fun, Instagrammable pictures. Guests can also borrow rainbow-colored umbrellas (free, limited availability) at the park gates for an extra pop of color. Don’t miss the Cosmos Soft-serve Ice Cream (450 yen) available at the Hirappa South shop.

Event Details
・Location: Showa Memorial Park
・Dates: September 14–October 20, 2024
・Hours: 9:30 AM–5 PM (9:30 AM–6 PM on weekends and holidays in September)
・Early opening at 8:30 AM in the Green Cultural Zone and free admission on October 6 and 20
・Admission: Adults 450 yen, Seniors (65+) 210 yen, Free for junior high school students and younger

Food & Other Festivals

Hello Kitty 50th Anniversary Café (Shibuya)

©'24 SANRIO Copyright Sanrio Co., Ltd.
©'24 SANRIO Copyright Sanrio Co., Ltd.

In celebration of Hello Kitty's 50th anniversary, a limited-time themed café will open, featuring a charming red-themed interior and adorable food and drink options.

The menu includes the KITTY & MIMMY Afternoon Tea set (6,590 yen), a cute two-tiered tea set inspired by Hello Kitty and her sister Mimmy, and the Hello Kitty Pancake (1,590 yen), shaped like Hello Kitty's face. Drinks like the KITTY & MIMMY Drink (990 yen), inspired by their iconic red and yellow bows, and Strawberry Milk (990 yen) offer both visual appeal and great taste.

Event Details
・Location: BOX cafe & space SHIBUYA109, Shibuya, Tokyo
・Dates: September 13–October 27, 2024
・Hours: 10:15 AM–8:30 PM (Takeout from 11:30 AM, last order 7:30 PM)
・Reservation recommended (660 yen per person). Guests with a reservation receive a complimentary square badge (50 designs available). 75-minute time slots with ticketing during peak times.

  • BOX cafe&space SHIBUYA109 Shibuya
    BOX cafe&space SHIBUYA109渋谷店
    • Address SHIBUYA109, 2nd basement floor, 2-29-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0043

Jujutsu Kaisen Café 2024: Jujutsu Kaisen 0 Movie Edition (Harajuku)

© 2021 "Jujutsu Kaisen 0 the Movie" Production Committee © Akutami Gege/Shueisha
© 2021 "Jujutsu Kaisen 0 the Movie" Production Committee © Akutami Gege/Shueisha
© 2021 "Jujutsu Kaisen 0 the Movie" Production Committee © Akutami Gege/Shueisha
© 2021 "Jujutsu Kaisen 0 the Movie" Production Committee © Akutami Gege/Shueisha

This themed café, based on the manga Jujutsu Kaisen serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump, features new illustrations from Jujutsu Kaisen 0: The Movie. The menu is inspired by memorable scenes and characters like Yuta Okkotsu, Maki Zenin, Toge Inumaki, Panda, and Satoru Gojo.

Dishes include the Yuta Okkotsu’s Friendly White Curry (1,890 yen), a white curry with pineapple, onion rings shaped like rings, and a side of salt cabbage flavored with sesame oil—Yuta's favorite. The Panda Parfait (1,590 yen) represents Panda with yogurt ice cream. Unique goods, such as random character badges (605 yen) and acrylic stands (990 yen), are also available.

Guests who reserve in advance (660 yen per person) will receive a random "prepaid-style card" (5 designs), and those who order drinks will get a random original coaster (5 designs).

Event Details
・Location: BOX cafe & space Q Plaza Harajuku / BOX cafe & space Harajuku Alta
・Dates: August 29–October 27, 2024
・Hours: Q Plaza Harajuku: 11 AM–9:20 PM / Harajuku Alta: 10:30 AM–8 PM
・75-minute time slots; reservations (660 yen per person) recommended.

  • BOX cafe & space Q Plaza Harajuku
    BOX cafe&space キュープラザ原宿店
    • Address 3F, 6-28-6 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
  • BOX cafe & space Harajuku Alta
    BOX cafe&space 原宿アルタ店
    • Address Harajuku Alta 3rd floor, 1-16-4 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

Tokyo Ramen Festa 2024 (Komazawa)

Tokyo Ramen Festa 2024 (Komazawa)

Held annually in October, Tokyo Ramen Festa is Japan's largest outdoor ramen event, aimed at promoting "tourism," "food education," and "food culture" through ramen.

This year, the event will span 12 days, divided into three phases (four days each), with 12 different ramen shops per phase, offering a total of 36 unique ramen varieties. The first phase features creative ramen like beef bone ramen made with Miyazaki beef. The second phase brings in popular ramen shops making their first appearance at a Tokyo event, and the third phase highlights ramen shops known for drawing long lines at ramen festivals across Japan. With new shops each phase, multiple visits offer fresh experiences!

Take this opportunity to enjoy regional ramen from all over Japan, right in Tokyo. Admission is free, so even if you're just there for the atmosphere, feel free to drop by.

Event Details
・Location: Komazawa Olympic Park, Central Plaza
・Dates:
- Phase 1: October 24–27, 2024
- Phase 2: October 28–31, 2024
- Phase 3: November 1–4, 2024
・Held rain or shine
・Hours: 10:30 AM–8:30 PM (October 27, 31, and November 4 end at 6 PM)
・Ticket sales end 30 minutes before closing
・Admission: Free (ramen purchased with tickets, 1,100 yen per bowl)
・Advance tickets available at 7-Eleven nationwide; same-day tickets sold at the event from 10:15 AM–8 PM

Shibuya Halloween Night Fest (Shibuya)

Photo from press release for "Shibuya Halloween 2023."
Photo from press release for "Shibuya Halloween 2023."

The Shibuya Halloween Night Fest is the ultimate Halloween event in Shibuya, considered the heart of Halloween celebrations in Tokyo. Purchase a ticket for your preferred day and check in at "MILAS SHIBUYA." Once you receive your wristband, you’ll have access to various participating clubs, DJ bars, lounges, and more. In addition to Shibuya, venues in popular areas like Shinjuku and Roppongi are also part of the event.

Event Details
・Location: MILAS SHIBUYA (check-in venue)
・Dates: October 25–31, 2024
・Hours: Varies by venue
・Admission: Varies by venue
・Tickets available until sold out for each day

  • MILAS SHIBUYA
    MILAS SHIBUYA - ミラス渋谷(受付会場)
    • Address Noah Shibuya B1, 36-2 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0042

Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Fest 2024 (Ikebukuro)

Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Fest 2024 (Ikebukuro)

One of Japan's largest Halloween events, the Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Fest attracts over 20,000 cosplayers each year. For 2024, the main stage will move from Ikesan Park to Naka-Ikebukuro Park, offering exciting activities like the Nico Nico Cosplay Collection and Parent-Child Halloween, making it enjoyable even for first-timers.

On October 25, the event kicks off with Ike-Hallo Night (18+ only) at Sunshine City from 4:30 PM, featuring nighttime cosplay and photoshoots with the city’s nightscape as a backdrop.

Event Details
・Location: Ikebukuro area
・Dates: October 25–27, 2024; October 25 at Sunshine City
・Hours:
- October 25 (Fri): 4:30 PM–10:30 PM
- October 26–27 (Sat–Sun): 10 AM–6 PM
・Tickets: On sale from September 13, 2024

  • Nakaikebukuro Park
    中池袋公園
    • Address 1-16-1 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 170-0013

Flea Market

Oedo Antique Market (Yurakucho)

Oedo Antique Market (Yurakucho)

The Oedo Antique Market is Japan’s largest outdoor antique market, held 1–2 times per month at Tokyo International Forum in Yurakucho. Since its launch in September 2003, it takes place on the first and third Sundays of every month (except August).

Around 250 vendors offer a wide variety of items, from ancient Japanese antiques over 300 years old to American vintage goods. This market provides a great opportunity to explore Japan’s history and culture through unique treasures. Conveniently located just across the crosswalk from Yurakucho Station and only a 5-minute walk from Tokyo Station, it’s a must-visit event for antique enthusiasts.

Event Details
・Location: Yurakucho, Tokyo International Forum
・Dates: October 6 and 20, 2024 (canceled in case of rain)
・Hours: 9 AM–4 PM
・Admission: Free; cash payment preferred for purchases, though some vendors may accept credit cards
Schedule subject to change

Make the most of Tokyo in October!

This month, Tokyo comes alive with autumn-themed events, including Japan’s largest ramen festival, character-themed cafes, and Halloween costume parties. Don’t miss traditional events like the Kawagoe Festival, where magnificent floats parade through the charming streets. While the weather is pleasant, evenings can get chilly, so be sure to bring a jacket if you're heading out later in the day!

(Information in this article is accurate as of September 2024. Please check official websites for the latest updates.)

Written by:
Kaori Kimura
Kaori Kimura

Kaori Kimura is a Japanese travel writer with roughly 20 years of experience in editing and publishing travel guides. After graduating from university, she worked at a publishing company for about 10 years, specializing in travel guides. She has undertaken numerous assignments both internationally, including in places like Paris, France, and Taiwan, as well as domestically in areas such as Hokkaido and Kyushu. Following this, she lived in Guangzhou, China for about two years as an expatriate spouse and contributed to local media, writing on economics and travel guides. Upon returning to Japan, she gained experience in editing and writing for web media. A key strength of hers is her involvement in creating travel guide articles for both inbound and outbound tourism. She possesses the highest level (HSK-6) of the standardized Chinese language proficiency test, level 2 in Japan's French language test, and EIKEN Grade Pre-1.

*This information is from the time of this article's publication.
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.

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