“My goal is to show girls around the world that we can do anything we want,” says pint-sized Sky Brown, the Miyazaki native who at 10 years old is already a veteran pro surfer and skateboarder. The Olympic hopeful, who plans to represent Japan at Tokyo 2020’s inaugural skateboarding competition, will shred alongside the world’s top female skateboarders at Murasaki Park this Saturday. For something a little less hardcore, drop in on winter illuminations, vintage clothing markets, nerd conventions, and other events carving up Tokyo this weekend.
The Skate Exchange
Amateurs and attendees alike can skate alongside the world’s top female skaters, including the aforementioned child phenom Brown, Nike “Just Do It” campaign star Lacey Baker, global sensation Leticia Bufoni (with more than 2 million Instagram followers) and Tokyo-based X-Games champion Aori Nishimura.
Showa Kinen Park Winter Vista Illumination 2018
From towering Champagne-glass trees to canals lined with twinkling trees Showa Kinen Park is the perfect spot for a romantic holiday stroll. Marvel at the winter fireworks on December 2.
Tokyo Comic Con 2018
Cosplay, comic books and John Cusack – Japan’s ode to science fiction, fantasy and pop culture returns to Makuhari Messe for three days of fun.
King Crimson
Stop what you’re doing and listen to 21st Century Schizoid Man. Recorded by King Crimson 50 years ago, no metal, grunge or progressive rock group has come close to matching the song’s frenetic, aggressive and technical ambitions. While guitarist Robert Fripp is the only remaining original member, the band’s live concerts are tutorials in how to create experimental rock without being boring or pretentious.
Oedo Waen Soba and Sake Festival 2018
With more than 100 varieties of sake and soba noodles served hot or cold, simple or wild, this annual festival celebrates two of Japan’s favorite fares.
Raw Tokyo – Vintage Market
Browse through cool and unique stalls displaying vintage and reused fashion, books, vinyl, artisan goods and more. Sample craft coffee and beer as you soak up the festival-like atmosphere.
Tennozu Canal Festival: Photo Camp
Nearly 50 photographers will be on hand to chat with attendees and share their artwork during the three-day photo market.
TRUNK (LOUNGE) High-Ball Complex Tasting Party
The name highball was either inspired by the pressure gauges of steam engines or the railroad signal meaning “clear track ahead.” Regardless, it’s fitting that the drink has become a staple in railway-loving Japan. Four TRUNK (LOUNGE) bartenders are each creating a unique version of this whisky (or shochu) and soda beverage at a spirited party this Friday. (PS. TW Insider’s Club members get ¥1,500 discount.)
