‌

Your ultimate New Year travel guide to Tokyo

Why Celebrate 2026 New Year’s Eve in Tokyo?

New Year in Tokyo blends lively countdown events with centuries-old traditions. The city glows with winter lights, festive activities, and peaceful temple visits, offering a unique way to welcome the year in both modern and cultural style.

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.

Explore more

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.

Learn more

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.

Know more

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.

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.

Know more

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.

Spend the evening at Tokyo Disneyland

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

Know more

Your perfect New Year itinerary

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.

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.

FAQs

Yes. New Year in Tokyo offers both cultural traditions and modern celebrations across the city.