Discover Tokyo
Japanese New Year (Oshogatsu) is the country's most important holiday, and experiencing it in Tokyo offers a fascinating window into Japanese culture and tradition. Unlike Western New Year celebrations focused on parties and countdowns, Japanese New Year is a time of reflection, shrine visits, and family tradition. The city transforms with traditional decorations, special foods, and a palpable sense of renewal.
Best Areas to Stay in Tokyo
Hatsumode — the first shrine visit of the year — is the centrepiece of Japanese New Year. Millions of Tokyoites visit shrines and temples in the first three days of January to pray for good fortune. Meiji Shrine in Harajuku draws over three million visitors and creates an incredible spectacle of humanity. Senso-ji in Asakusa and Zojo-ji near Tokyo Tower are equally atmospheric, with temple bells ringing 108 times at midnight to symbolise the cleansing of earthly desires.
Where to Book in Tokyo
Hotels near major shrines offer the most immersive New Year experience. Properties in Harajuku/Shibuya are walking distance from Meiji Shrine. Hotels in Asakusa place you near Senso-ji with its stunning backdrop of Tokyo Skytree. The area around Zojo-ji offers the iconic combination of temple architecture and Tokyo Tower, illuminated in special New Year colours.
Things to Do in Tokyo
Tokyo during New Year offers unique experiences available at no other time. Department store fukubukuro (lucky bags) go on sale January 1st, creating exciting shopping events. Special osechi-ryori (New Year food boxes) are served at hotels and restaurants. The first sunrise of the year (hatsuhinode) is watched from Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, or waterfront locations. Many shops close January 1-3, giving the usually frenetic city an rare, peaceful atmosphere.