Tokyo is in full cozy-festive mode this week, so if you’re in town and wondering what to do, you’re in luck. Let’s start with something for whisky fans. According to Japan Travel, the Tokyo Whisky Festival 2025 is taking place this weekend, running Saturday and Sunday at a central Tokyo venue, bringing together distilleries from Japan and around the world. Expect tastings of rare Japanese single malts, experimental craft bottles, masterclasses, and plenty of food pairings, with tickets around five thousand yen at the door. It’s a great way to warm up and discover new favorites while soaking up the friendly, expert atmosphere.

If you’d rather keep things low-key and sustainable, Metropolis Japan highlights the Mottainai Flea Market series, kicking off in Tokyo from Sunday and running on select days through mid-January. This week you can drop by locations like Kichijoji Parco to hunt for secondhand winter fashion, old CDs and DVDs, books, and quirky vintage treasures, all with a waste-free ethos and free entry. It’s perfect for listeners who love browsing for one-of-a-kind finds while getting a feel for everyday Tokyo life.

Holiday magic is everywhere right now, too. Travel and Tour World reports that Tokyo is being called the ultimate winter spectacle in East Asia this year, with whole neighborhoods like Roppongi Hills, Omotesando, Ginza, and Marunouchi glowing with elaborate Christmas illuminations and towering trees. Take an evening stroll under the lights, then duck into a cozy café for hot cocoa or matcha, or make a full night of it by combining illuminations with a visit to Tokyo Disneyland’s Christmas season, complete with parades, character greetings in holiday costumes, and special treats.

Art lovers aren’t left out either. Tokyo Art Beat lists new exhibitions opening this week, including contemporary shows such as Kanna Funakoshi’s work at Light House Gallery and Daichi Kukita’s “Reverso” at a Ryogoku-area space. If you want a quieter midweek outing, these compact galleries are a great way to experience Tokyo’s creative side away from the big crowds.

However you spend the week, from whisky and flea markets to glittering lights and art walks, Tokyo is packed with options that fit every mood. Thanks for tuning in, and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss what’s happening next. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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