New Year in Tokyo | Top Things to Do

Why visit during New Year

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Traditional temple visits at midnight

Experience hatsumode at famous temples like Meiji Shrine and Sensoji, where visitors gather for prayers, fortune readings, and welcoming the Tokyo New Year in a meaningful way.

Illuminations across popular districts

Winter lights in Shibuya, Roppongi, and Marunouchi create a festive atmosphere ideal for evening strolls and photography during New Year in Tokyo.

Countdown events in the city

Areas like Shibuya Crossing and Tokyo Disneyland host lively countdowns, attracting both locals and visitors for a spirited start to the year.

Scenic views from observatories

Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower offer panoramic winter views, making them memorable places for reflection or celebrating the new year.

Shopping and dining in Ginza

Ginza’s winter charm and seasonal menus make it a pleasant stop for New Year preparations and early January sales.

Waterfront lights at Odaiba

Odaiba’s skyline, bay views, and entertainment areas create a relaxing setting for an evening walk before or after countdown gatherings.

Meiji Shrine entrance surrounded by trees in Tokyo.

Join hatsumode at Meiji Shrine

Meiji Shrine is the most iconic place for hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year. Thousands gather to pray for good fortune, draw omikuji, and experience one of the most meaningful Tokyo New Year traditions.

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Sensoji Temple with cherry blossoms in Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan.

Visit Sensoji Temple at Asakusa

Tokyo’s oldest temple is a lively place to welcome the new year. Lanterns, incense, and traditional stalls create a festive atmosphere that blends culture with winter charm.

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Tokyo Tower view from Tokyo Skytree, surrounded by cityscape and skyline.

Enjoy views from Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree offers panoramic views that are especially striking during winter. Its observation decks provide a peaceful way to take in the city before or after countdown festivities.

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Aerial view of Shibuya Crossing from Shibuya Sky Deck, Tokyo, Japan.

Experience Shibuya’s New Year countdown

Shibuya Crossing turns into a pedestrian zone for one of the city’s most energetic countdowns. Music, lights, and crowds create a contemporary celebration typical of New Year in Tokyo.

Tokyo skyline at sunset from Roppongi Hills Observation Deck.

Explore winter lights at Roppongi Hills

Roppongi’s seasonal illumination through Keyakizaka Street offers sparkling views of Tokyo Tower and a calm evening walk before heading to a countdown event.

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Odaiba Tokyo Palette Town Sky Wheel with surrounding park and buildings.

Visit Odaiba for waterfront views

Odaiba’s Rainbow Bridge and bay area offer scenic nighttime views and wide open spaces. It is ideal for a quieter start to the Tokyo New Year.

Colorful teacup ride at Tokyo Disneyland with vibrant hanging lanterns.

Spend the evening at Tokyo Disneyland

Both parks offer themed shows, special entertainment, and a countdown atmosphere that is popular among families.

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Your perfect New Year itinerary

Large red lanterns at Sensoji Temple entrance, Asakusa, Tokyo.

Day 1: December 31 – Traditions, lights, and countdowns

Morning:
Begin your day at Meiji Shrine to explore the peaceful forest paths and learn about New Year rituals. Afterwards, stroll through Omotesando for winter displays and light shopping. Enjoy an early lunch at a café overlooking the boulevard.

Afternoon:
Head to Roppongi Hills for the winter illumination along Keyakizaka Street. The light tunnel offers striking angles of Tokyo Tower. Continue to Tokyo Skytree for panoramic afternoon views, which are especially clear during winter. Spend some time in Solamachi Mall for light browsing or a warm drink.

Evening:
Have dinner in Shibuya or Asakusa depending on your countdown preference. For a lively experience, join the Shibuya Crossing pedestrian countdown. For a traditional celebration, return to Meiji Shrine or Sensoji Temple for hatsumode. Both offer a cultural Tokyo New Year atmosphere as midnight arrives. End the night with warm street snacks or a late café stop.

Rainbow Bridge spanning Tokyo Bay with city skyline at dusk.

Day 2: January 1 – Temple visits and winter views

Morning:
Start early with visits to temples that are quieter after midnight crowds. Sensoji Temple is ideal for morning prayers and exploring Nakamise Street’s shops. Enjoy a Japanese breakfast set at a nearby restaurant.

Afternoon:
Travel to Odaiba for waterfront scenery and relaxed winter air. Walk along the bay promenade for views of Rainbow Bridge. Have lunch at a mall overlooking the harbor. Consider visiting teamLab Planets for an immersive and calming start to the new year.

Evening:
Return to central Tokyo for dinner in Ginza. Seasonal menus and calm streets make it an ideal closing to the day. If you missed observatory views earlier, visit Tokyo Tower for nighttime lights. Enjoy a peaceful stroll before heading back to your hotel.