I just wanted to add an additional post about New Year’s Eve in Japan as I have had lots of readers who have said that they were disappointed after spending the countdown moment in Japan.
The people who have been the most disappointed seem to be those who want to have a western style ‘Times Square” “5,4,3,2,1” party style New Years.
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See here for what is open in Tokyo Jan 1-3, 2025
Is it possible to have this kind of party-style countdown?
Yes. At a private party or a night club. Absolutely.
But in Japan, the New Years` period is a time for families. Most people who work in the big cities return to their hometowns and visit their local shrine. Then, the city shuts down almost completely for 3-5 days.
Another random idea, if you want a mega party-vibe in the middle of Shibuya Crossing, come visit for Halloween. It’s wild for days beforehand and afterwards too. Everyone is in costume, drinking in the streets, dancing, singing and interacting.
How can you make the most of Japanese New Years?
Visit a shrine at midnight. Wear a kimono if you like, as many Japanese families will ( it is not compulsory.)
Large shrines will have street food, Japanese games and just a general festive feel.
For the days following you can visit the shrines everyday.
Because many things close down I recommend booking almost all your dinners ahead of time to make sure you have a spot but ALSO make sure that the places you want to go will actually be open.
If you will be in Kanazawa for New Year’s Eve, I recommend visiting Oyama Shrine. Lots of young people all visiting in full kimono.
If you are staying with Japanese friends, embrace all things traditional
Also, if you are extra prepared or are staying with Japanese friends you would have organized Osechi-Ryori traditional Japanese food that is designed to last without refrigeration for several days.
It’s as special to Japanese people as Christmas dinner is to many people from Western cultures.
If you’re not staying with friends, I recommend going to the Grand Hyatt in Roppongi to purchase an Osechi Ryori traditional bento box. Made with seasonal ingredients. Reserve online before Dec 20.
Visit a shrine
A shrine is the best option (it will be busy – but in the best way!) There will be so many people in full kimono attire and extra food stalls. It is just a lovely vibe at that time of year.
Meiji Shrine is located on the edge of Yoyogi Park and the walk into the shrine is just as spectacular as the shrine itself.
There are toilets in several locations on the path to the shrine. The shrine is free to enter. In January, the shrine opens at 6:40am and closes at 4:20pm.
It is a decent walk along the path so little, tired legs will definitely need a stroller.
1-1 KAMIZONO-CHO, YOYOGI
代々木神園町1-1
OPENING HOURS CHANGE MONTHLY (SEE HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION)
WEBSITE
A lovely place for an early morning stroll is Nezu Shrine. A beautiful slice of history and beauty – a little minature Kyoto.
The little tunnel of red tori gates is my favourite part.
Admission is free.
On January 1st, the shrine is open all night from the night before and from 6am on the 2nd.
I’ve written more about Nezu Shrine with kids here.
1-28-9 NEZU, BUNKYO
文京区根津1-28-9
OPEN: 6AM-6PM (from 7AM on January 1st)
Go to Hanayashiki – Japan’s oldest amusement park
Hanayashiki Theme Park in Asakusa is open on Jan 1 from 1pm – 6pm, Jan 2 & Jan 3 from 1pm-6pm AND they have a special countdown event for NYE! From 9pm-1am!
You can ride all the rides as many times as you like. Tickets are 3500 yen (kids aged 5-12 are 1500 yen, kids under 5 are free.) *Tickets cost an extra 500 yen if you buy them on the day at the Asakusa gate of the park. They have Japanese entertainers on a stage counting down to midnight. You can buy tickets in advance on rakuten.
This kooky little theme park is loved by my kids so much. It’s super super quaint and kitsch in all the right ways. I’ve written about Hanayashiki Amusement Park here.
Will I find fireworks in Japan on New Years Eve?
Hmmm… probably not. In Japan, fireworks are a summer festival tradition.
Last year there were some fireworks in Yokohama and Universal Studios in Osaka also do a fireworks celebration but I would stick to more traditional celebrations to avoid disappointment. Some years (including 2024!) Universal Studios have a New Years Eve event where you can stay all night!
This blog post contains some affiliate links. This means that I will receive a small commission if you make a purchase using my link – at no additional charge to you.
