Things to do this week in Tokyo

Monday 24

Ikazuchi no Daihannya
This curious festival sees the young men of Kasai dress up as women, put on deep-red lipstick, and go from house to house chasing away evil spirits. The origins of the event are disputed, but the entertainment value is certain. Read more

Tuesday 25

Foals
They've received praise for their third album, 'Holy Fire', released in Feb 2013, and have been traipsing the world since, spreading their indie fire wherever they go. See them in Tokyo as their global tour comes to an end. Read more

Ly: D.I.K. Taco Shop
Having been active in the Tokyo art scene for a few years now, fresh face Ly is drawing attention from all over Japan. This solo show, ending today, focuses on paintings and furniture splashed with her signature monster character. Read more

Wednesday 26

Riya: Trick Ster
Chicago-born paper-cut artist Riya presents her work at this solo exhibition, which enters its last day today. Her expressive and heartfelt pieces from the 'Trick Ster' series include a touch of traditional Latin American flavour. Read more

Katsushika Oi Exhibition
Katsushika Oi, daughter of the great Hokusai, was a formidable ukiyo-e artist in her own right. Her play with lights and shadows is on display at this extensive retrospective, which also comes to a close today. Read more

Thursday 27

Showa Kayo
The DJ collab who host this monthly Thursday night gig present the perfect warm-up for the weekend with their signature retro mix. Feb's line-up promises Japanese oldies from the '50s, '60s, '70s and '80s. Read more

Guri and Gura Exhibition
'Guri and Gura', the mice duo known for its storybook adventures, is celebrating its 50th birthday with this warm party in Ginza. Featuring over 170 original prints and first-edition books, the exhibition opens today. Read more

Friday 28

Tokyo International Literary Festival
This year's Tokyo Lit Fest welcomes authors, editors, illustrators, and other artists from 10 countries for 10 days of talks, performances, and other special events. The opening event is held tonight in Shinjuku. Read more

Pink Tokyo
Promising to be the biggest show and trade fair for the adult entertainment business in Tokyo ever, Pink Tokyo aims to provide excitement for all genders. The program includes everything from pageants to art shows. Read more

Hennessy Artistry
Sponsored by every high-living rapper's favourite cognac, Hennessy Artistry at Vision welcomes Madlib, veteran West Coast producer, DJ, and underground rapper, who will be joined by hip-hop duo N.A.S.A. Read more

Reboot 16th Anniversary
The Reboot party has been one of the brightest stars in the Tokyo techno sky for a good 16 years now. Celebrate that accomplishment at Daikanyama's Air with '90s 'hard minimal' master Cisco Ferreira, aka The Advent. Read more

Lycoriscoris
Catch up with the latest in Japanese electronica with rising sound wizard Lycoriscoris, DJ Ametsub, and the No. 9 Orchestra at this release party/gig at Omotesando's stylish Eats and Meets Cay. Read more

Stéphane Pompougnac
Resident at the hip Hôtel Costes, Stéphane Pompougnac is one of the hottest French DJs right now. Joining him at this release party for the 'Bloody French' album are locals DJ Kawasaki and 'FPM' Tomoyuki Tanaka. Read more

Saturday 1

Tokyo Girls Collection
The trendy ladies of Tokyo will again flock to this unbelievably popular one-day festival of fashion; a combination of the latest in clothing, cosmetics, music, and art. Get your tickets while they last! Read more

Co-Tori 2014
Tottori is Japan's least populated prefecture, but that doesn't mean it should be ignored – in fact, this 10-day event looks set to prove that the western region's crafts, food, and drinks are some of the best in all of Japan. Read more

Setouchi-Hiroshima Oyster Festa
Taste grilled oysters from the Seto Inland Sea at this month-long event starting today in Okubo Park. Famed for their refined taste, the spring oysters are served in a variety of forms and dishes, and go nicely with a beer. Read more

New Year New Works
The new year's already turning to spring, and this group exhibition on the work of resident artists at the Nishimura Gallery comes to a close. Sneak in by today to catch fresh art by a variety of young painters. Read more

Sunday 2

Sake Pop 3
Spend a laid-back afternoon sipping sake and chilling out to some smooth beats. There will be 20 kinds of nihonshu to choose from here, and most importantly, at the very reasonable price of ¥300 a pop. Read more

Ukiyo-e: A Journey Through the Floating World
See the work of masters and journey through the history of this endlessly attractive form of Japanese art. This must-see exhibition closes today, so you'll have to hurry up. Read more

'Kawaii' in Japanese Art
Another exhibition that comes to a close is this show on the origins of Japan's 'kawaii culture'. Works depicting children, dogs, cats, insects, and other adorable creatures hint at the roots of cuteness appreciation. Read more