Tokyo Curry Festival 2025: Savor the City's Best Curry Events and Flavors
Since moving to a neighborhood adjacent to Shinjuku in 2024, I've been visiting cities in Tokyo almost daily to explore its appeal and discover spots I can recommend to tourists. I updated this article in 2025 to incorporate my findings from this research, along with the latest information for 2025.
Another reason for updating the article is the growing interest in tours that allow visitors to safely and deeply experience Tokyo. Because Tokyo is a city that continues to develop at a dizzying pace and in complex ways, tourists visiting for the first time find it extremely difficult to discover the truly excellent spots beloved by locals.
This is why food tours led by knowledgeable local guides who know Tokyo inside and out have been gaining popularity, as they take visitors through Tokyo's maze of establishments.
In fact, Magical Trip's tour, which ranked #1 among all tours on Tripadvisor, has been receiving numerous applications.
Join a Magical Trip local tour to be guided by Tokyo experts to beloved restaurants serving exceptional food. They'll take you to hidden gems that are difficult for first-time visitors to Japan to discover, ensuring your trip becomes an unforgettable memory.
The recommended tour is the Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku, which was ranked #1 on Tripadvisor among all tours in 2024. Other options include food tours in Ginza where you can enjoy top-quality Japanese cuisine, as well as the tour featuring excellent yakiniku (grilled meat) and sushi.
We hope you'll have a wonderful time experiencing everything Tokyo has to offer by joining a Magical Trip tour!
Introduction
Tokyo is a city filled with seasonal charms. From spring cherry blossoms to winter snowscapes, it displays diverse expressions throughout the year.
In Japan's capital city, food events featuring culinary delights from across the country are held almost monthly. Curry, which has undergone unique development in Japan, holds an important position in Tokyo's gourmet scene.
This time, I'll introduce you to the Tokyo Curry Festival 2025 and curry restaurants where top-class flavors from across the country converge, carefully selected by this curry-loving writer.
I'll provide detailed information about the highlights of curry events in 2025, basic information, schedules, and access methods. Please find the perfect curry that matches your preferences.
5 Japanese Curry Events in Tokyo That This Curry Lover Looks Forward to Every Year
Japanese Curry is a national dish that evolved uniquely in Japan from its Indian origins and is enjoyed in households across the country.
Its thick roux clings to rice, characterized by a rich and mellow flavor. The aroma of spices blended with the sweetness of vegetables and fruits and the umami of meat spreads deep richness and deliciousness with every bite.
As a "curry maniac" who has eaten countless curries, I'll introduce you to five curry events you can enjoy in Tokyo, including the exciting Tokyo Curry Festival 2025.
Arakicho Curry Festival (May)
The "Arakicho Curry Festival," held every May in Shinjuku's Arakicho, is an event themed around curry and alcohol. Participants receive wristbands and rice in exchange for tickets at Araki Park and enjoy bite-sized curries from various shops.
The greatest attraction of this event is experiencing diverse curries in a single day. The special curries prepared by each shop offer authentic flavors despite their small portions. Pairings with craft beer and sake are also popular, offering a luxurious experience of enjoying various curries and drinks.
Different shops participate each year, so even I look forward to discovering new flavors. This event, where you can enjoy diverse curries and alcoholic beverages in a compact area, is perfect for those who want to experience curry in a sophisticated way.
<Information> (2024 information)
Date: May 19, 2024 (Sunday) 16:00-20:00
Access: 5-minute walk from Yotsuya-sanchome Station on Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line
Admission: 2,000 yen
Website: https://www.kanko-shinjuku.jp/event/history/article_3962.html
JAPANESE CURRY FESTIVAL (August)
Source:Official website
The "JAPANESE CURRY FESTIVAL" is a large-scale event held in the Shibuya area from August to September that promotes Japanese curry culture. At this festival, which I look forward to every year, curry combines with music, art, and culture to create a sensory experience.
During the event period, curry-related talk events and live performances are held, allowing you to appreciate the depth of Japanese curry culture. In the past, unique themes such as "The Affinity Between Curry and Anime" have been popular topics of discussion, while music events featuring popular artists have created excitement.
One of the attractions is that participating stores change every year, offering creative curries and limited menus that can only be enjoyed here.
At this event, where the entire Shibuya area is enveloped in the aroma of curry, you can enjoy curries that reflect the latest trends in Japan. The Tokyo Curry Festival 2025 promises to be an essential experience for any curry enthusiast visiting the city.
<Information> (2024 information)
Date: August 10-September 8, 2024
Access: Varies by venue (Shibuya area)
Admission: Varies by event
Website: https://japanese-curry-festival.com/#top
Shimokitazawa Curry Festival (October)
Source:FASHION PRESS
The annual "Shimokitazawa Curry Festival" held every October is a major event where the entire Shimokitazawa area is transformed into a curry paradise. As part of the growing Tokyo Curry Festival 2025 calendar, this event has become a must-visit for curry enthusiasts.
When I first visited, I was overwhelmed by its scale. Each year, more than 100 curry and dessert vendors participate, offering limited-edition menus that transcend various genres.
A distinctive feature is that not only curry specialty shops but also cafes, izakayas, bars, ramen shops, and bakeries participate. In the past, you could encounter creative dishes only available here, such as curry that fuses Japanese soup stock with yakuzen (medicinal cuisine) or original curry using seasonal fish.
The curry stamp rally and collaboration menus with companies are also unique pleasures of this event. Please enjoy walking around sampling unique curries while exploring the streets of Shimokitazawa, where Tokyo's subculture thrives.
<Information> (2024 information)
Dates: October 10-27, 2024
Access: 3-minute walk from Shimokitazawa Station on the Odakyu Odawara Line
Admission: Varies by store
Website: https://curryfes.com/
Kanda Curry Grand Prix (November)
Source:Official website
The "Kanda Curry Grand Prix" is Japan's largest curry event held annually in Tokyo's Kanda district, and will be a highlight of the Tokyo Curry Festival 2025.
This event can be described as the "Curry Olympics" held in the sacred ground of curry. It's an event where you can enjoy fierce competition and diverse flavors that can only be born in Kanda, which is packed with curry restaurants.
Every year from August to December, the "Curry Street Food Stamp Rally" is held, where visitors enjoy various curries while touring around Kanda. Furthermore, the "Grand Prix Final" is held in November, and that year's No.1 curry is determined by visitor votes.
A feature is that you can enjoy curries of various styles such as Indian, Thai, European, and Japanese, with different shops competing with new flavors each year.
Whether you enjoy food hopping or witnessing the crowning of the No.1 curry, this event, where you can experience Kanda's vibrant curry culture, is absolutely not to be missed by curry lovers.
<Information> (2024 information)
Dates: November 2-3, 2024 (Grand Prix Final)
Access: 4-minute walk from Kanda Station (JR)
7-minute walk from Shin-Nihombashi Station (JR Sobu Line)
4-minute walk from Kanda Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
11-minute walk from Kodemmacho Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
8-minute walk from Iwamotocho Station (Toei Subway)
Admission: Free
Website: https://kanda-curry.com/
Kichijoji Curry Festival
Source:FASHION PRESS
The "Kichijoji Curry Festival" is a curry celebration held from late August to early September. This popular event will return as part of the Tokyo Curry Festival 2025 circuit. Each year, about 25 restaurants around Kichijoji Station participate, offering their own specially crafted limited menus.
In the past, creative curries incorporating elements from various countries around the world were popular, such as vivid green Thai-style curry and curry arranged from traditional Iranian cuisine.
A stamp rally is also held at this event, and you can exchange stamps for prizes depending on how many you collect. In addition to prizes such as retort curry and fukujinzuke (sweet and salty sliced vegetable pickles), if you collect 10 stamps, you can obtain a special item.
Last year, I collected 10 stamps and got an original T-shirt. Every time I wear it, it brings back fond memories of the curry festival. Why not try food hopping and get your own curry festival trophy?
<Information> (2024 information)
Dates: August 23-September 1, 2024
Access: 1-minute walk from Kichijoji Station (JR)
Admission: Free
Website: https://kwbf.net/curry/
Top 3 Curry Restaurants in Tokyo: A Curry Lover's Guide from a Tokyo Expert
If you're planning to visit Japan, don't miss the chance to explore Tokyo's vibrant curry scene! The Tokyo Curry Festival 2025 might be getting all the attention, but these three curry establishments offer exceptional experiences year-round for curry enthusiasts.
Bondy
Source:VISIT CHIYODA
Nestled in Jimbocho's antiquarian book district, "Bondy" is a well-established European-style curry restaurant founded in 1978. The interior is filled with an antique, retro atmosphere.
Their signature beef curry features generous portions of tender, slow-cooked beef. The roux, which incorporates over 30 spices, fruits, and melted onions, offers a creamy texture with deep richness and sweetness.
What I particularly value about Bondy is their unique style that you won't find elsewhere. A generous amount of cheese is placed on top of the rice, creating an exquisite combination when mixed with the hot curry sauce. Additionally, the potatoes and butter served as sides perfectly complement the curry's flavor, allowing you to enjoy rich flavors until the last bite. This combination is precisely why I strongly recommend Bondy.
Taking time to enjoy this rich curry with its unique style between browsing bookstores is a special experience. It's a dish that every curry lover should try, especially if you're visiting Tokyo during the Tokyo Curry Festival 2025.
<Jimbocho Main Store>
Address: 2F Kanda Kosho Center Building, 2-3-3 Kanda-Jinbocho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Phone: 03-3234-2080
Hours: 11:00-21:30 (Mon-Fri), 10:00-22:00 (Sat, Sun, Holidays)
Closed: Never
Official Website: https://bondy.co.jp/web/
Curry Station Niagara
Source:Google Maps
"Curry Station Niagara" is a unique curry restaurant with a railway theme. As soon as you step inside, you'll be captivated by the railway memorabilia and decorations covering the walls, making you feel as if you've wandered into another world.
The restaurant's biggest attraction is that your ordered curry arrives at your table on a miniature steam locomotive. Not only children but adults too can return to their childhood and enjoy this experience.
The spiciness levels of the curry are expressed in railway terminology: mild is "Local," medium is "Express," spicy is "Limited Express," and extra spicy is "Super Express" – details that railway enthusiasts will particularly appreciate.
Of course, the curry itself is authentic, with vegetables and meat simmered to perfection, releasing their umami into the dish. Enjoy the excitement of having your curry delivered by a steam locomotive alongside the deep, delicious flavors. Many tourists visiting for the Tokyo Curry Festival 2025 make a special trip to experience this unique combination of taste and fun.
Address: 1-21-2 Yutenji, Meguro-ku, Tokyo
Phone: 03-3713-2602
Hours: 11:00-17:00
Closed: Mondays
Official Website: https://niagaracurry.com/
Minoringo
Source:Tripadvisor
"Minoringo" is a popular restaurant located in Tokyo's Harajuku area, characterized by its modern and stylish atmosphere. The cozy space centered around counter seating gives a casual yet sophisticated impression, making it particularly easy for women to dine alone.
Minoringo's most distinctive feature is its curry cooked without using any water, relying solely on the moisture from the ingredients. This cooking method creates a deep richness and umami flavor.
Their signature "Cheese Keema Curry" catches the eye with its unique visual presentation. The snow dome-like appearance features a white cheese dome on a jet-black plate, with an egg yolk shining in the center, resembling a dessert.
The curry is rich in aromatic spices, with particularly prominent refreshing notes of cardamom and cloves. This is a restaurant I especially recommend to those seeking Instagram-worthy dishes. Many visitors attending the Tokyo Curry Festival 2025 make it a point to visit Minoringo to experience this photogenic and delicious curry creation.
Address: 1F West Building, 1-22-7 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Phone: 03-6447-2414
Hours: 11:30-15:00 / 18:30-22:30 (Weekdays)
11:30-22:30 (Sat, Sun, Holidays)
Closed: Irregular holidays
Official Website: https://www.minoringo.jp/
Recommended Food Tours for Those Interested in Various Genres of Japanese Cuisine!
For those who want to experience the full charm of Japanese cuisine, here are three unique food tours available in Tokyo. By exploring with local guides, you can also learn deeply about Japanese food culture. The Tokyo Curry Festival 2025 will be happening during the same season, making it an excellent time for food enthusiasts to visit!
Finest Quality Sushi & Tempura Dining Experience in Ginza
This plan offers a dining experience at restaurants that have earned Michelin stars or high ratings on Tabelog (a famous Japanese restaurant review site).
During this 2.5-hour experience, you can enjoy an "omakase course" prepared right before your eyes by skilled chefs. With guaranteed counter seating, you can closely observe the delicate techniques of the artisans while deeply experiencing not only the food but also the essence of "Japanese-ness."
There's no need to worry about "high-end Japanese restaurants being intimidating..." An English-fluent guide will accompany you and carefully teach you the tips for enjoyment. Even first-timers can relax and fully savor authentic flavors and atmosphere, which is one of the great attractions of this plan.
On the day, it's recommended to dress up slightly to match the restaurant's atmosphere. For special anniversaries or trip highlights, this quality dining experience will undoubtedly become an unforgettable time.
Meeting point: Lion statue at Ginza Mitsukoshi near Ginza Station Exit A8
Tour area: Ginza
Start time: 16:30
Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku
This is a 3.5-hour tour of "must-eat" Japanese cuisine in Shinjuku's vibrant nightlife district.
After enjoying 8 pieces of nigiri sushi, you'll savor various types of wagyu in a Japanese yakiniku experience, and finally conclude with dessert or alcohol while strolling through Shinjuku's Kabukicho area glittering with neon lights. The tour includes 2 drinks and a 3.5-hour guided tour by a local, offering a fulfilling experience of both gourmet food and the city atmosphere. Many tourists who have visited the Tokyo Curry Festival 2025 also recommend this tour as a perfect complement to their culinary journey.
A guide who knows the local area thoroughly will take you to hidden gems and deep spots that you wouldn't discover through regular tourism, allowing you to experience Shinjuku's nighttime charm more deeply and enjoyably.
Vegetarian menus are also available, so those with dietary restrictions can participate with peace of mind.
This is a perfect recommended tour for those who want to fully experience nighttime Shinjuku.
Meeting point: In front of the black pillar (next to Uniqlo Shinjuku West Exit Store)
Tour area: Shinjuku
Start time: 17:00, 18:00, 19:00
Tsukiji Fish Market Walking Food Tour in Tokyo
This is a 3-hour guided tour where you can thoroughly enjoy seafood cuisine and Japanese culture while exploring Tsukiji Fish Market.
At Tsukiji Fish Market, a treasure trove of food where fish professionals gather, you'll enjoy 2-3 types of food-on-the-go including sushi, grilled fish, dashi-maki tamago (Japanese rolled omelette), and kamaboko (fish cake). Afterward, you'll also visit Japanese Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. It's a unique tour that allows you to experience not only food but also Japanese religious perspectives. After your tour, you might consider visiting the Tokyo Curry Festival 2025 to complete your culinary exploration of the city.
An English-speaking local guide will accompany you and provide detailed information about the market's history and food culture, allowing you to discover charms that you wouldn't find just by walking around.
This tour is recommended for those who want to enjoy both sightseeing and gourmet food, and those who want to explore Tsukiji Fish Market from a local's perspective. Photos taken during the tour will be sent by email later, making this plan perfect for creating travel memories.
Meeting point: Outside Exit 1 of Tsukiji Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line H11)
Tour area: Tokyo Tsukiji Market
Start time: 9:00, 10:00, 11:00
