The complete guide to spending New Year’s Eve in Tokyo

Mixing ancient traditions and exciting modern festivities, New Year’s Eve in Tokyo offers something for every type of traveler, whether you’re seeking parties or a unique, zen traditional ritual. Culture seekers can participate in the Joya no Kane bell-ringing ceremony at Sensō-ji Temple, while party enthusiasts can join the electric crowds at Shibuya Crossing. From rooftop festivities in Roppongi to fireworks at Tokyo Disneyland, here’s how to spend New Year’s Eve in Tokyo with celebrations that capture the city’s unique energy.

Everything you need to know about New Year’s Eve in Tokyo

New Year’s Eve fireworks
Tokyo’s fireworks are smaller in scale than those of other major cities, and you’ll need to go to Tokyo Disneyland, Yokosuka, or Yokohama to see them.

Best free New Year’s Eve activity
Joining a traditional Joya no Kane bell-ringing ceremony at local temples like Senso-ji.

Average temperature
From 37 F to 47 F (3 C to 8 C)

What to avoid on New Year’s Eve
Avoid major train stations, especially shortly after midnight, as they can get crowded.

1. Experience the Joya no Kane ceremony

Immerse yourself in one of Japan’s most sacred New Year’s traditions at a historic temple like Senso-ji in Asakusa. Around 11:30 PM, Buddhist temples across Tokyo prepare for the Joya no Kane ritual, where temple bells are rung 108 times to symbolize cleansing. As midnight approaches, join locals and visitors listening to the resonant bells, which are believed to purify the soul and welcome good fortune for the coming year.

Insider tip

Arrive early to secure a good spot, and buy a traditional amazake (sweet rice wine) to keep warm during the ceremony.

Address

Sensō-ji Temple, 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032.

2. Join the countdown at Shibuya Crossing

Plunging into the crowds at Shibuya Crossing is one of the most electrifying things to do in Tokyo on New Year’s Eve. As the clock ticks down to midnight, the world’s busiest intersection transforms into a street party with thousands of visitors and locals gathering to ring in the New Year amidst flashing screens and loud music.

Insider tip

Dress warmly as winter in Tokyo gets cold, and come prepared for crowds. If you’re meeting friends, agree to join them at a designated spot, as mobile networks can become congested during the celebrations.

Address

Shibuya Crossing, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0002

3. Celebrate at a rooftop party in Roppongi

Welcome the New Year in style at one of Roppongi’s trendy rooftop bars. Known for its vibrant international scene, Roppongi offers spectacular New Year’s Eve parties with panoramic views of Tokyo’s skyline. Venues like the New York Bar at Park Hyatt Tokyo (from the movie “Lost in Translation”) host special countdown events with live music, champagne, and breathtaking views of Tokyo Tower and the city lights.

Insider tip

Many rooftop venues require advance reservations for New Year’s Eve, so book early to secure your spot.

4. Watch the fireworks at Tokyo Disneyland

For a magical New Year’s Eve in Tokyo, head to Disneyland for special countdown shows, festive decorations, and spectacular illuminations. One of the best things to do at night in Tokyo is to watch the lights show at Disneyland, particularly on New Year’s Eve, when the elaborate fireworks display provides a memorable celebration with a touch of Disney magic.

Insider tip

The park sometimes sells limited “countdown tickets” that allow entry closer to midnight, allowing you to experience the New Year’s celebration without having to spend the entire day there.

Address

Tokyo Disneyland, 1-1 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0031

5. Participate in hatsumode at the Meiji Shrine

Start the new year with a traditional hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the year) at the stunning Meiji Shrine. During the first days of January, join locals and visitors performing traditional rituals like writing wishes on an ema (wooden prayer board), purchasing an omamori (protective charm), and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

Highlights

The shrine’s expansive forest, featuring over 100,000 trees from across Japan, creates a stunning natural backdrop that makes the hatsumode experience at Meiji Shrine particularly serene compared to other urban shrine visits.

Address

Meiji Shrine, 1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-8557

6. Enjoy a traditional New Year’s feast

Indulge in a traditional oshogatsu (New Year) meal served on the first day of the year. Many Japanese restaurants offer special oshogatsu set menus featuring Osechi Ryori, a collection of symbolic dishes believed to bring good luck.

Highlights

All the symbolic dishes of Osechi Ryori are presented in beautiful lacquered boxes and include food like datemaki (sweet rolled omelet) for knowledge and kuromame (black beans) for health.

New Year’s Eve in Tokyo: FAQs

1. Is Tokyo a good place to celebrate New Year’s Eve?

Absolutely. Just like Christmas in Tokyo, New Year’s Eve offers a unique blend of traditional and modern celebrations, from countdown parties at trendy clubs to serene visits to temples for the first prayers of the year (hatsumode).

2. How does Tokyo celebrate New Year’s Eve?

New Year’s Eve in Tokyo is celebrated with light displays, traditional temple bell-ringing ceremonies called joya no kane, and lively countdowns in popular areas like Shibuya Crossing.

3. What are the best spots to experience New Year’s Eve in Tokyo?

Shibuya Crossing is a must for a vibrant street-party vibe. For a more traditional experience, head to Sensō-ji Temple or Meiji Shrine.

4. Are there fireworks in Tokyo on New Year’s Eve?

Yes, but fireworks are less prominent compared to other global cities. Instead, many celebrations focus on illuminated displays and traditional rituals. If you want to ring in the New Year with fireworks, head to Tokyo Disneyland, Yokosuka, or Yokohama for displays.

5. Are shops and restaurants open on January 1 in Tokyo?

Many restaurants and shops are closed on New Year’s Day, but major shopping districts and department stores often remain open. Check ahead for opening hours to avoid surprises.

[HEADER IMAGE CREDIT] Flickr; Manish Prabhune. Some rights reserved