Tokyo National Dish Festival 2025: Experience Chinese, Thai, Africa, and other country’s culinary
Tokyo is the capital of Japan and a vibrant metropolis. This city has different expressions throughout the four seasons and is also a source of culture and trends. The city center is relatively mild throughout the year, but summers can be humid, and winters can be dry and cold.
In Tokyo, there are not only food events that gather delicious items from all over Japan, but also numerous international festivals where you can taste authentic cuisine from around the world. At the Tokyo Exotic Food Festival 2025, visitors will experience an unprecedented celebration of global cuisines in the heart of Japan's capital.
This time, I will introduce some of the most notable international food events to be held in Tokyo in 2025, including their highlights, basic information, and access to the venues.
9 Recommended Food Events Where You Can Enjoy Cuisines From Around the World in Tokyo
Every year, festivals featuring cuisines from around the world are held at event venues in Tokyo. One of the great attractions is that you can taste authentic and high-quality world cuisine, which is possible because of Japan's high curiosity about food.
Experiencing authentic cuisine along with Japan's unique vibrant festivals should be a good opportunity to experience the distinctive atmosphere created by Japanese culture and people.
Here, I will introduce selected international food events that you can experience in Tokyo, including highlights from the Tokyo Exotic Food Festival 2025 season.
Craft Gyoza Festival (April)
Source:Official website
Gyoza is a dish that originated in China, but it has evolved uniquely in Japan and is now widely loved as a national food. CRAFT GYOZA FES is an event where you can fully enjoy Japan's diverse gyoza culture.
There are standard grilled gyoza, as well as those made with regional specialties, and innovative creations like cheese and super spicy gyoza. Craftsmen gathered from all over the country offer their carefully crafted signature dishes.
Every time I visit, I'm overwhelmed by the variety and lured by the aromatic smell, seriously pondering which one to eat first.
At the venue, you can also enjoy the best pairings with Japanese craft beer and selected sake.
This gourmet event is particularly recommended for those who want to explore the depth of Japanese gyoza, try various flavors, or spend a lively time with delicious drinks.
<Information>
- Date: April 25 - May 6, 2025
- Access: 15-minute walk from "Komazawa-Daigaku" Station on the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line
- Admission: Free (food and drinks charged separately)
- Website: https://craftgyoza.jp/
Sichuan Festival (May)
Source:Official website
Sichuan Cuisine is the regional cuisine of Sichuan Province, China, characterized by the combination of chili peppers' heat and the numbing stimulation of Sichuan Pepper.
At the Sichuan Festival, you can enjoy the most popular Mapo Tofu in various styles, as well as other authentic Sichuan Cuisine. As someone who loves spicy food, I look forward to discovering authentic stimulation that can only be experienced at this festival every year.
In addition, the venue hosts the "Mala Grand Prix," a contest to determine the number one Sichuan Cuisine, and a free market selling China-related goods and ingredients, offering plenty of non-food enjoyment as well.
For those who love spicy food, this festival is an event not to be missed, and represents one of the more intense flavor experiences during the Tokyo Exotic Food Festival 2025 calendar.
<Information>
- Date: May 10-11, 2025
- Access: 5-minute walk from "Nakano" Station on JR Chuo Line, JR Sobu Line, and Tokyo Metro Tozai Line
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://meiweisichuan.jp/sisen-fes2025
Thai Festival (June)
Source:Official website
The Thai Festival is one of Japan's largest events where you can experience authentic Thai culture and rich food culture while in Japan. Thailand is an Asian country like Japan, but it has different unique food cultures and customs. At this festival, you can enjoy the charm of Thailand while feeling these differences.
The venue is lined with food booths where you can enjoy authentic Thai cuisine, and you can quench your thirst at drink booths offering fruit juices and Thai beer. Furthermore, there are well-stocked booths selling souvenirs and other goods.
I participate in this festival every year. From comparing delicious Thai cuisine to being fascinated by colorful stage performances, there are so many enjoyments one after another that I never get bored.
This is highly recommended for those who want to experience Asian food culture different from Japan while in Japan. Many tourists attending the Tokyo Exotic Food Festival 2025 consider this event a highlight of their culinary journey through Asia.
<Information>
- Date: May 10-11, 2025
- Access:
3-minute walk from "Harajuku" Station on JR Yamanote Line
3-minute walk from "Yoyogi-Koen" Station (C02) on Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line
3-minute walk from "Meiji-Jingumae" Station (C03, F15) on Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line and Fukutoshin Line
6-minute walk from "Yoyogi-Hachiman" Station on Odakyu Line
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://thaifes.jp/
China Festival
Source:Shibuya Bunka Project
Japanese culture developed under significant influence from China, but over many years, each has followed its own unique path. Particularly in food culture, both the flavors and styles differ greatly.
The China Festival is an event where you can experience these connections and differences between Japan and China. When you step into the venue, you'll be enveloped by a vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of a Chinese street corner. Rows of authentic street food stalls featuring Gyoza, Mapo Tofu, and fragrant Lamb Skewers stimulate your appetite - reminiscent of what you might experience at the Tokyo Exotic Food Festival 2025.
Last year, I visited with a friend and enjoyed authentic Chinese cuisine with a Tsingtao Beer in hand. The heat and deliciousness of freshly prepared dishes were exceptional.
Traditional performances and music concerts are also held on stage, allowing you to enjoy yourself all day. This is a festival I especially recommend to those interested in Asia's diverse cultures, showcasing flavors that will also be highlighted at the Tokyo Exotic Food Festival 2025.
<Information> (2024 information)
- Dates: September 7-8, 2024
- Access: 3 minutes walk from JR Yamanote Line "Harajuku" Station
3 minutes walk from Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line "Yoyogi Park" Station (C02)
3 minutes walk from Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line/Fukutoshin Line "Meiji-jingumae" Station (C03, F15)
6 minutes walk from Odakyu Line "Yoyogi-hachiman" Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.chinafes.net/
Jamaica Festival 2025 (June)
Source:Shibuya Bunka Project
The Jamaica Festival allows you to enjoy authentic Jamaican flavors and cheerful atmosphere while still in Japan. The venue is filled with pleasant reggae rhythms, creating an open atmosphere as if you were by the Caribbean Sea.
The authentic Jamaican Cuisine is not to be missed. Particularly with Jerk Chicken, famous restaurants from across the country gather, allowing you to compare various flavors - a perfect preview of cultural diversity you'll experience at the Tokyo Exotic Food Festival 2025.
Last year, I enjoyed comparing Jerk Chicken from various stores. Well-chilled Red Stripe Beer enhanced the spicy flavors, making for the perfect combination.
Even typically shy Japanese people can interact easily and pleasantly in this venue, drawn in by Jamaica's unique cheerful rhythms and open atmosphere.
This festival is recommended for those who want to enjoy interacting with people in a cheerful atmosphere, similar to what the Tokyo Exotic Food Festival 2025 will offer with its international flavors.
<Information>
- Dates: June 21-22, 2025
- Access: 3 minutes walk from JR Yamanote Line "Harajuku" Station
3 minutes walk from Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line "Yoyogi Park" Station (C02)
3 minutes walk from Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line/Fukutoshin Line "Meiji-jingumae" Station (C03, F15)
6 minutes walk from Odakyu Line "Yoyogi-hachiman" Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.jamafes.com/
Africa Heritage Festival 2025 (June)
Source:Official website
The Africa Heritage Festival allows you to deeply experience the vast and diverse cultures of the African continent while in Japan. The venue overflows with dynamic Afrobeat rhythms and colorful attire worn by attendees, giving you the exhilarating feeling of stumbling into an African celebration.
In the food area, spicy dishes from different regions that are rarely found in Japan are lined up. Previously, I was enticed by exotic fragrances and enjoyed unfamiliar stewed dishes for the first time, moved by their depth. Browsing the market with colorful African print fabric goods and handmade accessories was like a treasure hunt - offering international flavors that will be complemented by those at the Tokyo Exotic Food Festival 2025.
At this event, you can feel Africa's vibrant energy that differs from Japanese culture. This is an event I especially recommend to those with adventurous curiosity who want to experience multiple cultural zones in one journey, making it an excellent companion event to the Tokyo Exotic Food Festival 2025.
<Information>
- Dates: June 21-22, 2025
- Access: 3 minutes walk from JR Yamanote Line "Harajuku" Station
3 minutes walk from Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line "Yoyogi Park" Station (C02)
3 minutes walk from Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line/Fukutoshin Line "Meiji-jingumae" Station (C03, F15)
6 minutes walk from Odakyu Line "Yoyogi-hachiman" Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: http://africaheritage.jp/festival/j-schedule.html
Roppongi Gourmet Burger Grand Prix (July)
Source:FASHION PRESS
Roppongi, Tokyo is home to an impressive array of high-quality gourmet burgers. The event that determines the pinnacle of these creations is the Roppongi Gourmet Burger Grand Prix. This event, which will be part of the Tokyo Exotic Food Festival 2025 lineup, features unique burgers created by restaurants in and around Roppongi Hills, all competing for prestige.
The selection includes carefully selected patties, creative sauces, fresh vegetables, and sometimes even premium Japanese ingredients like Wagyu beef, making it difficult to choose. When I visited, the burgers were visually stunning and truly worthy of the "gourmet" title.
While hamburgers are popular worldwide, "Japanese gourmet burgers" infused with Japanese chefs' meticulous techniques and spirit of exploration offer something different.
Taking a break from Japanese cuisine to enjoy sophisticated, top-quality burgers will surely become an unforgettable memory during your visit to the Tokyo Exotic Food Festival 2025.
Information (2024 information)
- Dates: July 1 September 1, 2024
- Access:
Roppongi Hills
3 minutes walk from Roppongi Station Exit 1c (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
6 minutes walk from Roppongi Station Exit 3 (Toei Oedo Line)
9 minutes walk from Azabu-juban Station Exit 7 (Toei Oedo Line)
12 minutes walk from Azabu-juban Station Exit 4 (Tokyo Metro Namboku Line)
10 minutes walk from Nogizaka Station Exit 5 (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
Azabudai Hills
Directly connected to Kamiyacho Station Exit 5 (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
2 minutes walk from Roppongi-itchome Station Exit 4 (Tokyo Metro Namboku Line)
10 minutes walk from Roppongi Station Exit 3 (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
10 minutes walk from Roppongi Station Exit 5 (Toei Oedo Line)
10 minutes walk from Azabu-juban Station Exit 6 (Toei Oedo Line)
11 minutes walk from Azabu-juban Station Exit 3 (Tokyo Metro Namboku Line)
11 minutes walk from Onarimon Station Exit A6 (Toei Mita Line)
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000175.000048109.html
Tokyo Christmas Market in Jingu Gaien (December)
Source:Official website
Japanese winter brings heightened Christmas spirit with beautiful illuminations. While Christmas is originally a Christian celebration, in Japan it's enjoyed as a major winter event separate from its religious background.
The Tokyo Christmas Market held at Meiji Jingu Gaien is one such event. The venue features stalls selling warm drinks, food, and cute items, enhancing the Christmas atmosphere with brilliant decorations. This market is expected to be a highlight attraction at the Tokyo Exotic Food Festival 2025's winter edition.
When I visited last year, I enjoyed hot wine while savoring freshly grilled sausages. The warm food and drinks under sparkling illuminations were exceptional.
Seeing how Christmas is celebrated as an event in Japan will surely bring interesting discoveries. Please enjoy this romantic moment that only comes during this season, where European traditions blend with Japan's unique event culture amid winter cityscapes.
Information (2024 information)
- Dates: November 19 December 25, 2024
- Access:
10 minutes walk from Gaienmae Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line/Hanzomon Line)
10 minutes walk from Aoyama-itchome Station (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line/Toei Oedo Line)
5 minutes walk from Shinanomachi Station (JR Chuo/Sobu Line)
5 minutes walk from Kokuritsu-kyogijo Station (Toei Oedo Line)
- Admission:
Nov 19: Adults (Junior high school and above) 2,000 yen, Children (Elementary school) 1,000 yen / Preschool children free
Nov 20-Dec 20: Adults (Junior high school and above) Weekdays 1,000 yen / Weekends & Holidays 1,500 yen, Children (Elementary school) 500 yen / Preschool children free
Dec 21-25: Adults (Junior high school and above) 2,000 yen, Children (Elementary school) 1,000 yen / Preschool children free
- Website: https://tokyochristmas.net/
Roppongi Hills Christmas Market (December)
Source:Official website
In Tokyo's sophisticated district, Roppongi Hills also offers an authentic Christmas market. Warm atmosphere huts recreating Stuttgart, Germany, are arranged in Oyane Plaza.
Here, you can enjoy classic foods like spicy Mulled Wine and juicy sausages, as well as shops selling adorable Christmas goods imported directly from Europe. This cultural exchange showcase is another reason why the Tokyo Exotic Food Festival 2025 is expected to be such a special event for tourists.
I once tasted a piping hot German-style beef stew simmered in dark beer here. Its rich flavor permeated my cold body and was delicious.
The charm unique to this place is that you can enjoy both sophisticated Roppongi illuminations and the warm atmosphere of a traditional European market simultaneously. It's a perfect spot for those who want to experience both urban Christmas and traditional warmth.
Information (2024 information)
- Dates: November 23 December 25, 2024
- Access:
3 minutes walk from Roppongi Station Exit 1c (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
6 minutes walk from Roppongi Station Exit 3 (Toei Oedo Line)
9 minutes walk from Azabu-juban Station Exit 7 (Toei Oedo Line)
12 minutes walk from Azabu-juban Station Exit 4 (Tokyo Metro Namboku Line)
10 minutes walk from Nogizaka Station Exit 5 (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
- Admission: Free
Enjoy These Two Traditional Japanese Cuisine Tours After Experiencing the Tokyo Exotic Food Festival 2025!
After enjoying the festival featuring cuisines from around the world, please take the opportunity to deeply experience Japan's traditional food culture as well.
The vivid contrast with the exciting multinational gourmet offerings will surely highlight the delicacy of visually beautiful Japanese cuisine and the profound culture behind it.
Finest Quality Sushi & Tempura Dining Experience in Ginza
This is a 2.5-hour gourmet tour where you can enjoy the highest quality sushi and tempura at top-class restaurants in Ginza. You'll visit Michelin-rated establishments and enjoy specially prepared omakase courses.
The greatest attraction is guaranteed counter seating. The live experience of watching skilled artisans prepare sushi right before your eyes and tempura fried at the perfect moment is an exceptional experience.
Knowledgeable English-speaking guides will carefully explain the culture and dining etiquette, so even first-time visitors to high-end restaurants can feel at ease. The tour also includes 4 drinks.
However, please note that they cannot accommodate vegan, gluten-free, or shellfish allergy requests.
This special tour offers an unforgettable evening in Ginza experiencing authentic Japanese cuisine and its profound culture. Many visitors attending the Tokyo Exotic Food Festival 2025 have found this tour to be the perfect complement to their culinary adventures in Japan.
- Meeting point: Lion Statue at Ginza Mitsukoshi near Exit A8 of Ginza Station
- Tour area: Ginza
- Start time: 16:30
Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku
This is a 3.5-hour night tour exploring Tokyo's must-eat gourmet foods in Shinjuku, the city that never sleeps.
The greatest attraction is the opportunity to experience both sushi prepared by artisans right before your eyes and yakiniku where various types of Wagyu beef can be enjoyed BBQ-style. After eating, you'll stroll through Kabukicho, Asia's largest entertainment district, and finish with dessert or drinks.
A knowledgeable English-speaking guide will accompany you, and the tour is kid-friendly so families can participate. It's a fulfilling tour where everyone from food enthusiasts to families can enjoy Shinjuku's local night and fine dining. The Tokyo Exotic Food Festival 2025 organizers particularly recommend this tour for visitors wanting to experience both international and traditional Japanese cuisines during their stay.
Vegetarian menus are available with advance requests, but please note that allergy accommodations cannot be guaranteed.
- Meeting point: In front of black pillar (Next to Uniqlo Shinjuku Nishiguchi shop)
- Tour area: Shinjuku
- Start time: 17:00 / 18:00 / 19:00