Fall in Tokyo signals the arrival of festival season, and none has gained as much international praise as the annual gathering of all things contemporary and stylish known as Tokyo Design Week (Nov. 2-6). With four concurrent events -- Tokyo Designer's Week, Swedish Style, and new comers 100% Design Tokyo and Design Tide -- it's a massive undertaking, and one that lovers of design will truly enjoy.

Tokyo Designer's Week

The spiritual leader of Tokyo Design Week due partially to its veteran status, Design Association's Tokyo Designer's Week (TDW) makes its 20th appearance this year. Describing itself as a "celebration of the power of good design," TDW is actually comprised of a series of projects that all come together in the form of exhibitions, talks, installations, and, of course, parties -- the main exhibition hall is set to turn into a party space at night. Events have been held in a host of cities throughout this month (Osaka, Kyoto and Nagoya), with Tokyo as its last stop. The main exhibitions are taking place for the first time at the central location of Jingu Gaien in Aoyama, making it much easier for design aficionados to catch as many as possible.

Leading things off is the hugely popular "Container Exhibition," in which participants are invited to create innovative environments within the confines of 20 ft. by 40 ft. shipping containers. The Jingu Gaien location will also host a "Student Exhibition," incorporating graduate works from 60 design schools around the world, while other events will be held throughout the city -- shop installations, open design studios and a "Professional Exhibition" to be held at Akasaka Karayan Square. TDW is launching the "Wrapping Bus," which will be traveling a circuit between every area hosting TDW-related events. The buses themselves are moving exhibits, as they will all feature designs by participating creators and companies.