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.
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.
Will I find fireworks?
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.
For an example of the kinds of places that are open during the new year period in Tokyo, see my post here.
