Best Things to Do on New Year’s Eve in Tokyo: Countdown

The year-end season is one of the most important parts of the year in the Japanese calendar. Traditionally, this is a quiet time dedicated to reflection and renewal. But as one of the world’s largest metropolises, Tokyo never really shuts down for the holidays. There are plenty of exciting parties, shows and limited events available to ensure stepping into the new year is anything but a quiet affair.

As 2026 gets closer, here’s our guide to the best things to do to ring in the new year.

Tokyo nightclubs, parties and music events

theme park activities

lights and fireworks

Traditional activities in Dasongsong

Oji Shrine Fox Parade Performance

Prince Fox Parade 2025

The Prince’s Fox Parade (also known as the Fox Dance Parade) is one of the capital’s most atmospheric end-of-year traditions. Viewing the parade is free, but arriving early is highly recommended. The streets around the Sho Clan Inari Shrine begin to fill up before 11 p.m., and by midnight, good vantage points are few and far between.

date and time	December 31, 2025・23:00-01:30
price	free
Place	Oji Inari Shrine
More information	There is a fee to register

First model and Jono Kane

As part of the New Year celebrations, first prototype It is the custom of visiting a shrine or Buddhist temple for the first time of the year to pray for good luck and avoid bad omens in the coming year. Often, this means going to the local family shrine, which already offers protection and blessings year-round. However, larger and more famous shrines and temples are also popular places for New Year’s prayers.

Joya no Kane (the stroke of midnight) is another traditional practice that purifies visitors and welcomes the new year on a clean footing.

The rising of the first sun

The rising of the first sun Marking the first sunrise of the year, it begins with a serene golden scene. Climbing a mountain around Tokyo or ascending to a skyscraper observation deck is a great way to enjoy the first rays of sunshine in 2026.

There’s more to do in the new year

Buy Lucky Bags Lucky Bags

lucky bag “Lucky bag” shopping is an annual retail tradition where brands offer discounted items, vouchers and coupons to thank customers for a year of good business. These bags come in all shapes, sizes and categories, from snacks to luxury brands.

Watch the Kohaku Uta Battle

NHK’s Kohaku Uta Battle telecast has become a highly anticipated annual event for generations of fans. The music show features some of the top performers; the red team (female artists) and the white team (male artists) compete in a friendly competition on the countdown to midnight.

The 76th episode of the Kohaku Uta Battle will begin airing at 19:20 (Japan Standard Time) on December 31st.

Related posts