This Weekend: Tokyo Area Events for April 16–17

This weekend is all about new experiences and giving back to the community, with a traditional Indian festival, Japanese traditional horseriding archery show, learning about children’s views on peace and the future, a charity sunset cruise, and a David Bowie tribute store opening in Shibuya. Enjoy!

Holi Festival Yokohama

Also known as the “festival of colors,” Yokohama is once again hosting its version of this unique traditional Indian event, which celebrates the arrival of spring by having participants—friends or strangers—throw colored powder on each other. Also on the agenda are traditional Indian stage performances, Indian food and craft stalls, and the Holi Looks photo competition, which gives you the chance to win a roundtrip ticket to India. A great event to let loose and get wild and messy, without worrying about people judging your looks.

When: Fri, Apr. 15, 2016, 11:30 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sat., Apr. 16, 2016, 10 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sun, Apr. 17, 2016, 10 a.m.–7 p.m.

Where: Yokohama Redbrick Warehouse (Akarenga), 1-1 Shin Minato, Naka-ku, Yokohama

How much: Free entrance, ¥1,980 for photo competition entry. Paint booths are charged separately.

Children’s “Peace” Drawing Exhibition

How is world peace seen from the eyes of a child? And what can we do to save our planet? This exhibition explores these questions through a display of 50 works made by children from Ukraine and Fukushima in a year marking 30 and five years, respectively, of the world’s two most devastating nuclear disasters.

When: Fri, Apr. 15 through Sun, Apr. 17, 2016, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. (Until 5 p.m. on the last day)

Where: 4F Kinokuniya Shinjuku Main Bookstore, 3-17-7 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

How much: Free!

Open-Air Sring Music Festival

One of the most popular Tokyo gardens with Western-inspired architecture in Japan, the Kyu-Iwasakitei Garden in Ueno is also well known for its annual open-air Spring Music Festival, happening this weekend. Sit on the grass and enjoy a quiet saxophone performance, as you’re surrounded by the splendid sights of the garden’s blooming flowers.

When: Sat, Apr. 16, 2016, 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Where: Kyu Iwasakitei Teien, 1-3-45 Ikenohata, Taito-ku, Tokyo

How much: ¥400 for entrance to the garden. Concert is free of charge.

Charity Spring Sunset Cruise 2016

Enjoy the stunning Tokyo Bay sunset view with this 90-minute-long evening cruise along the Sumidagawa river, as you pass by the famous Nihonbashi Bridge, Rainbow Bridge and Toyosu. Parts of the proceeds from the cruise will be allocated for the cleaning of Tokyo Bay, as well as its surrounding rivers and canals. It’s the perfect event for couples seeking to contribute socially while enjoying a romantic outing!

When: Sat, Apr. 16, 2016, from 4 p.m. (Also held every Saturday and national holiday in April and May)

Where: Nihonbashi Kanko Sanbashi, 1-9 Nihonbashi Chuo-ku, Tokyo

How much: ¥3,000 for adults, ¥2,500 for children between 4 and 12. Reserve here (Japanese only).

Asakusa Yabusame

One of the relatively lesser known traditional Japanese arts, yabusame, or horseback archery, has been practiced in Japan since the 12th century. This weekend, visitors to Asakusa can enjoy a powerful live yabusume demonstration. Note that it gets crowded, so make sure to visit earlier to secure a spot.

When: Sat, Apr. 16, 2016, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

Where: Sumida Park, 7-1-22 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo

How much: Free!

David Bowie Tribute Store Opening

The international tribute to the late singer takes new turns with the opening of a special pop-up store in Shibuya dedicated to the memory of David Bowie. On sale are over 230 items, including postcards, t-shirts, mugs, caps and much more. The store is open through May 31.

When: From Fri, Apr. 15, 2016, 10:00 a.m.–9 p.m.

Where: 2F Shibuya Parco 3, 15-1 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

Featured image by Glenn Waters.