Tokyo December 2026: 25+ Best Fireworks, Illuminations, Christmas Markets & New Year Shrines
Tokyo is home to countless spots, from bustling entertainment districts like Shibuya and Harajuku, to neighborhoods that come alive at night like Shinjuku and Roppongi, to areas that preserve traditional old-town charm like Asakusa and Kanda.
While Tokyo is a city packed with appeal, it's also true that increasing tourism development has made it harder for visitors to experience the "real Tokyo." In other words, instead of enjoying Tokyo like a local, tourists are often limited to experiencing only the touristy side of the city.
That's exactly why I want you to explore the city with locals who know the real Tokyo. With tours from Magical Trip—winner of Tripadvisor's The Best of The Best in both 2024 and 2025—you can make that happen.
The Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku, a back-to-back winner of The Best of The Best for two consecutive years, lets you safely enjoy spots beloved by locals in famous Shinjuku areas like Kabukicho and Omoide Yokocho.
If you're interested in Japanese culture, I recommend the Tokyo Sumo Morning Practice Tour in Ryogoku, where you can visit a sumo stable—something even most Japanese people have never experienced—or the Asakusa Cultural Walk & Matcha Making Tour, where you can stroll through Asakusa while learning about Japanese culture from your guide.
If you want to create your own itinerary and explore Tokyo deeply and efficiently, choose Customized Private Tours of Japan with MagicalTrip's Top Guides, where you can craft a special itinerary tailored just for you with a local guide.
Introduction
December in Tokyo is the most event-filled season of the year, featuring Christmas and traditional New Year events. Until Christmas on December 25th, gorgeous illuminations light up the city throughout Tokyo areas like Roppongi and Marunouchi. From the end of the year into the new year, numerous traditional events take place at homes and shrines.
This article introduces the spectacular Tokyo Event December 2025 celebrations taking place throughout the city. We highly recommend visiting Tokyo's gorgeous Christmas illuminations and Christmas markets that utilize the latest technology, which many people look forward to each year.
We've also compiled recommended temples and shrines for those who want to experience Japan's traditional year-end celebrations. If you're visiting Tokyo in December, please be sure to check this article through to the end.
Table of Contents
-Beautiful Illumination Events to Enjoy in December Tokyo
-Japanese-style Christmas Market Events You Can Enjoy in December Tokyo
-Recommended for New Year's Eve! 5 Recommended Shrines and Temples for Experiencing Japanese-Style New Year Celebrations
-Gourmet and Alcohol-Related Tokyo Events December 2025
Enjoy "Odaiba Rainbow Fireworks"; Tokyo's Only Fireworks Event in December 2026
Odaiba Rainbow Fireworks is a fireworks event held in Odaiba every Saturday in December and around Christmas Eve. Approximately 1,300 fireworks are launched, and because the winter air is crisp and clear, they are said to appear even more vivid and brilliant than in summer — making this Tokyo Event December 2026 a must-see experience.
One of the highlights of Odaiba Rainbow Fireworks is the stunning combination of fireworks against the backdrop of Rainbow Bridge and the glittering city skyline. The colorful display of light illuminating the night sky is truly breathtaking.
The fireworks run for about five minutes starting at 7:00 PM, but those five minutes are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.
The fireworks can be enjoyed from a variety of locations, including Odaiba Seaside Park, DECKS Tokyo Beach, and AQUA CiTY ODAIBA, so consider pairing the show with shopping or dining at one of the nearby facilities.
Information:
- Dates: December 2026 TBD (In 2025, held on December 6, 13, 20, 24, and 27)
- Address: 1-4 Daiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo
- Access: 3-minute walk from Daiba Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.tokyo-odaiba.net/rainbow2025/ (2025 site)
Beautiful Illumination Events to Enjoy in December Tokyo
First, let's introduce the illumination events you can enjoy in Tokyo Event December 2025. During Christmas season in Tokyo, you can enjoy beautiful, high-quality illuminations at various spots throughout the city.
Tokyo Mega Illumi 2026
Tokyo Mega Illumi is one of the largest illumination events in the city, held at Ohi Racecourse.
At the venue, visitors can enjoy a wide range of illuminations with a distinctly Japanese aesthetic, including a "Rainbow Fountain of Light" — a spectacular fusion of cutting-edge technology, music, and water — as well as the "Edo Cherry Blossom Tunnel," where guests can walk through a tunnel of cherry blossom-shaped light bulbs, and "Japan's Original Landscape," an installation evoking the image of rice paddies.
Beyond the illuminations, visitors can also interact with horses, take photos with them, and — by reservation — enjoy pony rides and pony-drawn carriage rides. These racecourse-exclusive experiences are hugely popular with children, making this event a great choice for families.
Information:
- Dates: December 2026 TBD (In 2025, held November 1 – January 11)
- Address: 2-1-2 Katsushima, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo
- Access: 2-minute walk from Oikeibajonmae Station
- Admission: Adults from ¥1,000 / Children from ¥500
- Website: https://www.tokyomegaillumi.jp/ (2025 site)
Roppongi Hills Christmas Keyakizaka Illumination
Roppongi Hills Keyakizaka Illumination is an illumination event held along Keyakizaka at Roppongi Hills. Approximately 930,000 blue and white LED lights are strung along the roughly 400-meter stretch of Keyakizaka, creating a magical, winter wonderland atmosphere that evokes a world blanketed in silver.
My top recommended photo spot is near Louis Vuitton or Roppongi Tsutaya Books along Keyakizaka. From there, you can capture both the illuminated streetscape and Tokyo Tower in a single frame — the kind of shot that looks like it was taken by a professional. When I showed a photo I took near Louis Vuitton to a friend, they exclaimed, "It looks like a work of art!"
If your schedule allows, try to arrive for the lighting ceremony at 5:00 PM. I was so moved by the moment the streets transformed into a world of blue and white that I completely forgot about the cold and lingered in that atmosphere for quite some time.
Information:
- Dates: December 2026 TBD (In 2025, held November 4 – February 22)
- Address: 6-chome, Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
- Access: Directly accessible from Roppongi Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.roppongihills.com/sp/christmashills/102/ ・ https://www.roppongihills.com/events/2025/12/0543.html
Tokyo Dome City Winter Illumination
Tokyo Dome is Tokyo's largest indoor stadium, and the surrounding Tokyo Dome City is an entertainment area featuring amusement parks, shopping facilities, hotels, and more.
At Tokyo Dome City, you can enjoy illuminations with various interesting features every year. In 2024, the vast grounds were decorated with white lights representing snow, and special illumination spots resembling snow domes appeared.
The snow domes had a feature where you could take photos together with glowing snow crystals when you entered them. The large 15-meter-high tree also had lighting that changed every 15 minutes and soap bubbles, making it an enjoyable illumination that never gets boring.
Elaborate illuminations are planned for this year as well. Be sure to check out Tokyo Dome City, where you can enjoy amusement parks and shopping together.
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- Dates: 2026 TBD (In 2025, held November 17 – March 1, 2026)
- Access: Get off at JR Suidobashi Station → 1 minute walk from the west exit → Tokyo Dome City
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.tokyo-dome.co.jp/illumination/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tokyodomecity_official/
Tokyo Midtown Illumination
At Tokyo Midtown, a luxury commercial facility in Roppongi, gorgeous illuminations perfect for glamorous Roppongi take place. This is one of the most popular spots during Christmas season in Tokyo every year.
At Tokyo Midtown, various illuminations are held in different areas throughout the spacious grounds each year. When I visited in 2024, Midtown Garden was decorated with gold lights along the tree-lined streets, allowing visitors to enjoy a stroll while appreciating the lights and well-maintained gardens.
Also, in front of 21_21DESIGN SIGHT in Midtown Garden, story-driven illumination spots were displayed. The lights continuously changed in sync with music, and there was also a soap bubble feature.
Many people came to see this, taking photos and cheering each time the lights changed.
All the illuminations are high-quality and make you want to take photos and videos, so please visit and enjoy this spectacular Tokyo Event December 2025 attraction.
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- Dates: 2026 TBD (In 2025, held November 13 – December 25, 2025)
- Access: Get off at Roppongi Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line → 1 minute walk through the underground passage → Tokyo Midtown
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.tokyo-midtown.com/jp/event/xmas/illuminations.html
Marunouchi Street Park 2026
In the Marunouchi area near Tokyo Station, you can also see illuminations that light up the business district in December. Along the 1.2km Marunouchi Nakadori Street, approximately 280 trees are covered with one million light bulbs.
In Marunouchi, you can enjoy illuminations with a more chic and elegant impression compared to other Tokyo illumination spots.
When I visited in 2024, the trees along Marunouchi Nakadori Street were decorated with champagne gold illuminations, making the usually calm business district shine in golden color.
Special illuminations also take place on Gyoko-dori Street, which is beautiful with its ginkgo tree-lined avenue. Gyoko-dori Street connects Tokyo Station to the Imperial Palace Outer Gardens.
The ginkgo trees are decorated with red and blue lights, and from the street, you can also see the beautiful Tokyo Station building colorfully lit up. Christmas markets and food sales by kitchen cars are also held within the area.
If you visit Tokyo Station in December, be sure to step out of the station and explore the Marunouchi area.
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- Dates: December 2026 TBD (In 2025, held November 13 – February 15, 2026)
- Access: Get off at JR/Subway "Tokyo Station" → 1 minute walk from the South Exit → Marunouchi Nakadori
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://visit-chiyoda.tokyo/app/event/detail/743
Yomiuriland Jewellumination®
At Yomiuriland theme park in neighboring Kanagawa Prefecture, a notable illumination event also takes place in December. The entire theme park, with its large Ferris wheel and roller coasters, is extensively decorated with colorful LED illuminations, creating a dreamlike spectacle.
Yomiuriland Jewellumination, an event extremely popular with young people every year, features unique colored illuminations that represent jewel colors. When I visited, it felt like entering a jeweled kingdom from a picture book, providing a dream-filled experience.
Additionally, since Yomiuriland is located on a mountain in Kanagawa Prefecture, you can overlook the nearby Tokyo night view. When riding attractions like the large Ferris wheel, you can beautifully see the illuminated park grounds, Tokyo's neon-lit cityscape, Tokyo Tower, and Tokyo Skytree.
If you don't mind traveling a bit further from Tokyo, definitely visit Yomiuriland for this amazing Tokyo Event December 2025 experience.
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- Dates: December 2026 TBD (In 2025, held October 23 – April 5, 2026)
- Access: Take the Odakyu Odawara Line from Shinjuku Station → Get off at Yomiuriland-mae Station → Take the Yomi01 bus bound for Keio Yomiuriland Station from the station → Get off at Yomiuriland (approximately 1 hour)
- Admission:
Adults (18-64 years old): ¥5,900/ Middle and high school students: ¥4,700/ Elementary school students/seniors (65 and older): ¥4,100
- Website: https://www.yomiuriland.com/jewellumination/
Shibuya Ao no Dokutsu
Ao no Dokutsu is a regular illumination event held throughout various Tokyo locations. It's also held annually in Shibuya, one of Tokyo's representative entertainment districts, where Shibuya Koen-dori Street and other areas are decorated with the event's characteristic blue-themed illuminations.
The Ao no Dokutsu illuminations are themed around blue caves, with approximately 900m from Shibuya to Yoyogi Park's Zelkova Avenue near Harajuku Station glowing with blue light.
Particularly at the main venue, Yoyogi Park's Zelkova Avenue, the trees were covered with blue LED bulbs and the ground was illuminated with blue lights, creating a truly fantastical scene like being inside a blue cave.
A Christmas market was also held at Yoyogi Park's Zelkova Avenue, with food and cute Christmas goods for sale. We recommend starting from Shibuya, walking through the illuminated Koen-dori Street, and taking a leisurely stroll to Yoyogi Park.
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- Dates: December 2026 TBD (In 2025, held December 6–25)
- Access: Get off at JR Line or Subway Shibuya Station → 10 minutes walk via Koen-dori → Yoyogi Park Zelkova Avenue
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://shibuya-aonodokutsu.jp/
SHIBUYA SKY Sparkling View
SHIBUYA SKY Sparkling View is an event held at SHIBUYA SKY, the observation facility in Shibuya Scramble Square, where visitors can enjoy stunning Tokyo night views accompanied by light and music performances — a must-see Tokyo Event December 2026.
At the venue, mirror balloons of various sizes are placed throughout the space, reflecting the ever-changing night scenery and lighting. Immersive music composed by globally acclaimed artist evala plays throughout, creating a deeply fantastical atmosphere.
As I walked around the observation deck taking in the night view, I felt as though I had wandered into another dimension entirely — a sense of exhilaration unlike anything I had ever experienced before.
On the rooftop "SKY STAGE," visitors can enjoy a program that blends soap bubbles with a tree of light, and at "THE ROOF SHIBUYA SKY," you can sip drinks while soaking in the night panorama.
Since the event runs in the evening, it pairs perfectly with a visit after enjoying shopping and dining at Shibuya Scramble Square.
Information:
- Date: December 2026 (TBD) (In 2025, held November 6 – December 25)
- Address: 2-24-12 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
- Access: Directly connected to Shibuya Station
- Admission: From ¥2,700
- Website: https://www.shibuya-scramble-square.com/sky/sparkling_view/ (2025 site)
Tokyo Disney Resort Christmas Illuminations
Tokyo Disney Resort Christmas Illuminations is an event where Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo DisneySea, and the Disney Official Hotels are all decorated with a Christmas theme, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a romantic, resort-wide holiday atmosphere — one of the most anticipated Tokyo Event December 2026 experiences.
At Disneyland's World Bazaar and DisneySea's Waterfront, approximately 15-meter-tall Christmas trees are displayed. Each area of the parks features uniquely themed illuminations, and the event has earned a strong reputation for offering a rich variety of Christmas moods in a single visit.
During the Christmas season, guests can also enjoy Christmas shows within the parks and browse Christmas-themed food and merchandise — making it impossible not to feel fully immersed in the festive spirit.
Information:
- Date: December 2026 (TBD) (In 2025, held November 11 – December 25)
- Address: Maihama, Urayasu-shi, Chiba
- Access: Varies by facility
- Admission: From ¥7,900 for adults (subject to change depending on time and season)
- Website: https://www.tokyodisneyresort.jp/
Sunshine Aquarium Marine Garden Illumination
Marine Garden Illumination at Sunshine Aquarium is an illumination event held at Sunshine Aquarium under the theme "Illumination in the Sky."
The event features approximately 23,500 lights paired with a mist display evoking clouds, and the delicate, shimmering light installations have earned a reputation as a true urban oasis.
My personal favorite spot is the "Penguins in the Sky" tank — positioned directly overhead, it allows you to watch penguins swimming against a backdrop of illumination lights and the night sky. The sight of penguins seemingly gliding through the stars is so mesmerizing that I completely forgot to keep up my conversation with my friend, utterly transfixed by the display.
While the illumination runs year-round, the presentation changes with the seasons and special events, so be sure to check the official website before your visit.
Information:
- Date: Year-round in 2026 (In 2025, held daily)
- Address: 3-1 Higashiikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
- Access: 8-minute walk from Ikebukuro Station
- Admission: Adults (high school students and above) from ¥2,600 / Junior and elementary school students ¥1,300 / Young children (age 4 and above) ¥800
- Website: https://sunshinecity.jp/aquarium/news/entry-30247.html
If you want to enjoy not only events but also Tokyo's nightlife, have a local guide show you around the city!
If you want to enjoy not only illuminations but also nightlife in Tokyo at night, be sure to participate in a bar hopping tour guided by local guides.
The Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku takes you to a total of 3 bars under the guidance of local guides who know well how to have fun in Shinjuku. You can enjoy not only drinks but also sufficient meals including delicious Izakaya cuisine.
In Shinjuku, known as the city that never sleeps, you can enjoy bars in two different atmospheric areas: Omoide Yokocho Alley lined with retro Izakayas, and Kabukicho with its glowing neon lights.
The tour starts in the evening and ends in about 3 hours, but you can still enjoy the night in Shinjuku afterward. Ask your guide about how to have fun in Shinjuku and information about recommended spots during the tour.
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Meeting point: In front of Black pillar (Next to Uniqlo Shinjuku Nishiguchi shop)/1-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Tour area: Shinjuku
Start times: 17:00, 17:30, 18:00, 18:30, 19:00
Japanese-style Christmas Market Events You Can Enjoy in December Tokyo
What has become popular in Tokyo in December in recent years are Christmas market events imported from Germany. In Japan, Christmas is considered an event to be enjoyed like a festival, and it's also a dating season for couples.
Christmas markets are events that many people visit with couples, friends, and families to enjoy gorgeous illuminations.
A major feature of every Tokyo Event December 2025 is that they place cute Japanese-style character objects for Instagram-worthy photos, and feature Tokyo-style modern decorations and illuminations.
Most shops sell German glühwein, sausages, and other gourmet foods as well as Christmas goods. Some even sell uniquely Japanese Christmas decorations, where you can find anime character goods arranged in Christmas style.
Tokyo Christmas Market 2026 in Jingu Gaien
The Christmas market held at Jingu Gaien boasts Tokyo's largest scale and popularity. More than 50 European hütte-style stalls line the vast grounds of Jingu Gaien, where you can enjoy food, drinks, and shopping while admiring brilliant illuminations.
When I visited in 2024, the spacious venue was truly bustling with so many people, and I was amazed by its prosperity. This is an increasingly popular event year by year, and some days you may have to wait several tens of minutes to enter, so please be careful about that.
The spacious venue was decorated with dazzling Christmas decorations as far as the eye could see, creating undeniable splendor. What particularly attracted attention was the rotating Christmas pyramid that stood 14 meters high.
It was newly created in 2024, with many cute character objects including Little Red Riding Hood from Grimm's fairy tales and Disney characters.
The venue also has many unique Christmas decorations made by Japanese art university students and artists, so please check them out.
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- Date: December 2026 (TBD) (In 2025, held November 21 – December 25)
- Access: Get off at Aoyama-itchome Station on the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line or Oedo Line → 10-minute walk → Meiji Jingu Gaien, in front of the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery and the General Stadium
- Admission fee: [12/5-12/19] Adults (middle school students and above) Weekdays ¥1,000/ Weekends and holidays ¥1,500/ [12/20-12/25] Adults (middle school students and above) ¥2,000
- Website: https://tokyochristmas.net/jingu/
- Instagram：https://www.instagram.com/tokyochristmas/
Tokyo Christmas Market 2026 in Shiba Park
The Tokyo Christmas Market held at Jingu Gaien is also held at Shiba Park in Minato Ward. Shiba Park is a park located right next to Tokyo Tower, Tokyo's symbolic radio tower.
It recreates traditional German Christmas markets, where you can buy German gourmet foods like stollen and sausages, as well as Christmas goods imported from Europe and made in Japan.
From Shiba Park, you can see Tokyo Tower larger than anywhere else. At the Tokyo Christmas Market in Shiba Park, you can tour various shops decorated with Christmas decorations while seeing the red glow of Tokyo Tower up close.
When I visited a few years ago, it was very cold because it was held outdoors, but there was also a welcome indoor dining corner where you could enjoy food and drinks while watching the stage after looking around all the shops. If you're planning to visit Tokyo Tower for sightseeing in December, be sure to stop by Shiba Park as well.
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- Date: December 2026 (TBD) (In 2025, held December 5 – December 25)
- Access: Get off at Onarimon Station on the Toei Mita Line → 1 minute walk → Tokyo Metropolitan Shiba Park No. 4
- Admission fee: [12/5-12/19] Adults (middle school students and above) Weekdays ¥1,000/ Weekends and holidays ¥1,500 yen/ [12/20-12/25] Adults (middle school students and above) ¥2,000
- Website: https://tokyochristmas.net/shiba/
AZABUDAI HILLS Christmas Market
At the sophisticated commercial facility AZABUDAI HILLS in Azabu, a Christmas market is held every year and gains popularity. Seventeen food and beverage stores and shops selling Christmas goods open at AZABUDAI HILLS' Central Square.
The AZABUDAI HILLS Christmas Market is somewhat smaller in scale compared to other Christmas markets like Jingu Gaien, with a calm atmosphere. The Christmas tree and hütte decorations were also elegant, with sophisticated modern beauty.
Many popular stores from AZABUDAI HILLS, where luxury shops gather, also participated in the market. I enjoyed Japanese-style pot-au-feu made with wagyu beef, sold by the popular Tokyo restaurant "Dining 33."
If you want to visit a modern and stylish Christmas market that's quintessentially Tokyo, please visit AZABUDAI HILLS.
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- Date: December 2026 (TBD) (In 2025, held November 22 – December 25)
- Access: Tokyo Metro Namboku Line "Roppongi 1-chome" station → 2 minutes walk from Exit 4 → AZABUDAI HILLS
- Admission fee: Free admission
- Website: https://www.christmas.hills-site.com/illumination-event/azabudai/201/
ROPPONGI HILLS Christmas Market 2026
A gorgeous Christmas market is also held at Roppongi Hills, the commercial facility that can be called the symbol of Roppongi. Decorated to evoke German Christmas markets, 10 carefully selected stores sell authentic German gourmet food and beautiful Christmas goods.
The venue is O-YANE PLAZA square at Roppongi Hills, and this is the smallest scale and most calm atmosphere event among the Christmas markets introduced this time. When I visited last year, there were about 10 standing tables where you could eat the food you purchased.
Roppongi Hills is a building with high-brand boutiques and offices, and I could see people who came shopping and people on their way home from work casually stopping by.
I stopped by on my way back from seeing Roppongi Hills' illuminations. When I drank hot wine with cinnamon, my cold body warmed up very much. Please enjoy it together with the famous Keyakizaka illuminations and other luxurious illuminations in the surrounding area.
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- Date: December 2026 (TBD) (In 2025, held November 21 – December 25)
- Access: Get off at Roppongi Station on the Hibiya Line → 1 minute walk from Exit 1C → Roppongi Hills Big Roof Plaza
- Admission fee: Free admission
- Website: https://www.christmas.hills-site.com/illumination-event/roppongi/101/
Christmas Market 2026 in Tokyo Skytree Town
A notable Christmas market event is also held at Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo's symbolic tower. In Tokyo Skytree Town, an area where commercial facilities, an aquarium, and restaurants gather around Skytree, 8 gourmet and Christmas goods shops opened last year.
Last year's venue was Sky Arena on the 4th floor of Skytree. The plaza was covered with light, decorated with beautiful Christmas arches, large nutcrackers, and cute polar bear objects for photo spots.
Looking up from the plaza, you could see the really huge Skytree, which was beautifully lit up in Christmas colors of green.
Not only the Christmas market venue, but every year in December, the entire Tokyo Skytree Town is decorated with luxurious illuminations. For example, the illuminations on the 2nd floor grand staircase, which link with Skytree's lighting, are so gorgeous they're moving.
If you're coming to Tokyo in December, please check out the Christmas market and illuminations that you can enjoy together with Skytree.
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- Date: December 2026 (TBD) (In 2025, held November 6 – December 25)
- Access: Tobu Skytree Line, Hanzomon Line, Keisei Line, Toei Asakusa Line, get off at Oshiage Station → 1 minute walk from Exit B3 or A2 on the 3rd basement floor → Tokyo Skytree Town 4th floor Sky Arena
- Admission fee: Free admission
- Website: https://www.tokyo-solamachi.jp/ (Event page currently not open)
Christmas Event at Ueno Park
Every year during the Christmas season, a variety of events are held at Ueno Park:
- Tokyo Dance Festival Special Christmas Event (2022)
- Latin Christmas in Ueno Park (2023)
- UENO Christmas Market (2024)
- Tokyo Christmas Advent in Ueno Park (2025)
I personally attended "Tokyo Christmas Advent in Ueno Park," held in 2025.
The venue offered a wealth of content to enjoy: a massive Santa Claus sculpture measuring 5 meters wide and 3 meters tall, dazzling illuminations, stage shows, and Christmas-themed goods and food at the Christmas market — a fully sensory celebration of the holiday season.
Since Ueno Park organizes a differently themed event each year, it's worth checking the website in advance to find out what's planned. This is one of the most beloved Tokyo Event December 2026 traditions for both locals and tourists alike.
Information:
- Date: December 2026 (TBD) (In 2025, held November 19 – December 25)
- Address: Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Access: 5-minute walk from Ueno Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://christmas-advent.jp/ueno/ (2025 site)
ART AQUARIUM MUSEUM GINZA - Winter Exhibition
ART AQUARIUM MUSEUM GINZA - Winter Exhibition sets a different theme each year, offering a fantastical, winter-exclusive world of goldfish — a refined and intimate addition to any Tokyo Event December 2026 itinerary.
Past themes have included:
- Winter Goldfish Glittering in the Light (2022)
- Starry Night in Ginza Christmas (2023)
- Goldfish and the Enchanted Silver World (2024)
- Flower Aquarium Gala (2025)
The venue is adorned with birch trees and illuminations evoking the Christmas season, glowing lights that conjure a silver winter world, and delicate music that harmonizes beautifully with the graceful movements of the goldfish — all working together to heighten the festive spirit.
As an indoor event, it is particularly recommended for those who want to escape the winter chill and savor the Christmas atmosphere in a warm, tranquil setting.
Information:
- Date: December 2026 (TBD) (In 2025, held on specific dates in December)
- Address: 8F Ginza Mitsukoshi Annex, 4-6-16 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- Access: Directly connected to Ginza Station
- Admission: ¥2,700 / Free for elementary school students and younger (online discount available)
- Website: https://artaquarium.jp/
Explore Tokyo at night with a local guide who is also a photographer!
If you want to capture not only Christmas illuminations but also beautiful Tokyo night views in photos, why not participate in a tour where you can explore the city at night with a professional photographer?
Magical Trip's Tokyo by Night Photography Tour allows you to walk through Shinjuku at night with a local guide who is also a photographer, and have special photos taken at your favorite spots.
When I participated, the guide took me to spots perfect for taking Tokyo-like photos, such as the entertainment district Kabukicho and Hanazono Shrine.
They gave detailed advice about composition and poses, and even I, who doesn't know much about photography, was able to take high-level artistic photos.
In the latter half of the tour, you can choose photography spots, and you can even take a train from Shinjuku to Shibuya. If you want to take photos at the famous Scramble intersection, please extend your trip to Shibuya as well.
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Meeting point: Lion Statue (Right in front of the East exit of Shinjuku Station)/3-38 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Tour area: Shinjuku, Shibuya
Start time: 17:30
Recommended for New Year's Eve! 5 Recommended Shrines and Temples for Experiencing Japanese-Style New Year Celebrations
Japan's New Year period features many traditional ceremonial events. First and most importantly, Japan's New Year event called "Hatsumōde" is extremely significant.
Hatsumōde means visiting a shrine or temple for the very first time in the year, where people pray for health and happiness throughout the year. This is a major event in Japanese society, with hundreds of thousands to millions of people visiting famous shrines in Tokyo for Hatsumōde.
Shrines and temples open their gates specially from midday or evening on December 31st, where many people gather to welcome January 1st at 0:00. Additionally, from around December 26th through December 31st, many traditional year-end events are held, including Purification Ceremonies at shrines - making this truly a special Tokyo Event December 2025 season.
Here we introduce famous temples and shrines in Tokyo recommended for experiencing Japanese-style New Year celebrations.
Sensoji
Sensoji is Tokyo's oldest temple located in Asakusa in the downtown area. On December 31st, many people gather at Sensoji from around evening, waiting for the moment of New Year's arrival. At 0:00 on January 1st, the "New Year's Eve bell" event takes place.
During the New Year's Eve bell event, at the moment it becomes 0:00, temple monks strike a large bronze bell 108 times with wooden sticks to ring out the sound. The New Year's Eve bell event is a staple event held at temples throughout Japan. Whenever I hear this sound, I feel a sacred sense that the old year departs along with various worries, and a new year begins.
Sensoji's bell was made in the 17th century and has been used for over 300 years - it's truly historical. Why not experience a uniquely Japanese New Year's Eve by listening to the sound of this historic bell together with many worshippers?
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Schedule: January 1st 0:00~
Access: Get off at Asakusa Station on the Toei Subway Asakusa Line → 5-minute walk from Exit A4 → Sensoji Temple
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.senso-ji.jp/annual_event/24.html
Meiji Jingu Shrine
Meiji Jingu Shrine is famous as Japan's most visited Hatsumōde spot. Approximately 3 million people visit for New Year worship every year.
I once visited on the night of December 31st, and by around 11:00 PM on the 31st, there was already a long queue to pray at the main shrine. Since it's located near Harajuku and Shibuya, areas popular with young people, many of those waiting in line appeared to be from the younger generation.
We welcomed the New Year while waiting in line, and at the moment of New Year's arrival, lively cheers erupted. It was very enjoyable to celebrate the arrival of the New Year together with people around us.
From 0:00~3:00 AM on January 1st, or from midday January 1st through around the 3rd, crowds are particularly heavy, and you may wait over an hour to pray at the main shrine.
If you don't mind crowds and want to welcome the New Year lively together with many people at a Tokyo shrine, please visit Meiji Jingu Shrine.
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Schedule: December 31st ~ around January 5th
Access: JR Harajuku Station, Subway Chiyoda Line, Fukutoshin Line, Meiji-Jingumae Station → 1 minute walk → Meiji Jingu Shrine
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.meijijingu.or.jp/hatsumoude/
Tokyo Daijingu Shrine
Tokyo Daijingu Shrine is located in Chiyoda Ward and is also famous as a wedding venue. Special nighttime opening takes place around 23:00 on December 31st, and approximately 50,000 people visit for Hatsumōde during the period through January 3rd.
At Tokyo Daijingu Shrine, visitors who come on January 1st are served sake and traditional sweets called "oshiruko." While quantities are limited, they're free if available.
When I visited from midnight on December 31st, it was very cold, so the sweet oshiruko that warmed my chilled body was extremely delicious.
Also, Tokyo Daijingu Shrine is believed to fulfill romantic wishes when visited, and is known for having many female worshippers. Many women also appeared to be visiting for Hatsumōde.
Among the shrines introduced here, crowds at the moment of New Year's arrival are relatively smaller. This shrine is also recommended for those who want to welcome the New Year calmly.
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Schedule: December 31st 23:00~
Access: Get off at Iidabashi Station on the JR Chuo/Sobu Line → 5-minute walk from the west exit → Tokyo Daijingu Shrine
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.tokyodaijingu.or.jp/saiten/
Kanda Shrine
Kanda Shrine is located in Kanda, Chiyoda Ward. It's close to Akihabara, the center of otaku culture, and Nihonbashi business district, making it one of Tokyo's representative major shrines.
At Kanda Shrine, the gates open at 0:00 on January 1st, and many people gather for the year's first worship. During the subsequent "Hatsumōde" period lasting several days, approximately 300,000 people visit for worship.
Around Kanda Shrine, many food stalls operate from January 1st through around the 7th, creating a festival-like atmosphere you can enjoy.
Additionally, on December 27th, the traditional Shinto ritual called "December Purification Ceremony" is performed. This historic ritual purifies the impurities of the old year and prays for happiness and health in the new year - anyone can observe it within the shrine grounds.
If you want to experience traditional year-end rituals and New Year's Hatsumōde full of festival atmosphere, please visit Kanda Shrine.
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Schedule: January 1st 0:00~
Access: JR Keihin Tohoku Line/Yamanote Line: Get off at Akihabara Station → 7 minute walk from the Electric Town Exit → Kanda Shrine
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.kandamyoujin.or.jp/event/detail/?id=2
Yasukuni Shrine
Yasukuni Shrine is a historic shrine near the Imperial Palace Outer Gardens. Yasukuni Shrine is open from 11:30 on December 31st through 18:00 on January 1st, and many people visit for worship during these two days.
At Yasukuni Shrine, various New Year events are held from January 1st through around the 4th. For example, traditional lion dance performances and festival music are performed within the shrine grounds.
What I particularly recommend is the archery performance held every year from 10:00 on January 3rd. You can observe people dressed in samurai costumes shooting ceremonial arrows according to warrior etiquette.
The sight of samurai shooting arrows is dignified and cool, enhancing the bright New Year mood. If you want to see many traditional performances and ceremonies held during New Year, please visit Yasukuni Shrine during the New Year period.
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Schedule: December 31st 11:30 ~ around January 4th
Access: Get off at Iidabashi Station (West Exit) or Ichigaya Station on the Chuo/Sobu Line → 10 minutes walk from either station → Yasukuni Shrine
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.yasukuni.or.jp/news_detail.html?id=449
Another Great Option for the Holiday Season: Visit Shrines and Temples Where You Can Strike the New Year's Eve Bell
In Japan, there is a tradition of striking the New Year's Eve Bell at shrines and temples around midnight on December 31st.
The New Year's Eve Bell is a traditional Japanese custom in which the bell at a shrine or temple is struck 108 times to drive away the 108 earthly desires believed to reside within every person, allowing one to welcome the new year with a pure heart. At many shrines and temples, the bell is struck 107 times on December 31st, with the final strike taking place after the clock passes midnight into January 1st.
Some shrines and temples allow members of the public to strike the New Year's Eve Bell themselves, so if you are visiting Japan for a Tokyo Event December 2026 and the New Year's holiday period, this is an experience well worth trying.
I have had the chance to strike the New Year's Eve Bell myself. When I did, the resonant sound of the bell spread through the air, and as I listened to its solemn tone, I found my mind naturally settling into a calm and peaceful state — a wonderful way to welcome the new year.
Shibamata Taishakuten
Shibamata Taishakuten is a temple founded in 1629, known for its intricately carved wooden sculptures and beautiful Japanese garden. The sound of its bell has been selected as one of the "100 Soundscapes of Japan."
Information:
- Address: 7-10-3 Shibamata, Katsushika, Tokyo
- Note: The New Year's Eve Bell striking begins at midnight on January 1st. Prior registration is required.
Ikegami Hommon-ji Temple
Ikegami Hommon-ji Temple is a sacred site of Nichiren Shonin, founded in 1282. The five-story pagoda and treasure tower within its grounds are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan.
Information:
- Address: 1-1-1 Ikegami, Ota, Tokyo
- Note: The first 600 visitors are welcome to participate, with groups of 6 striking the bell together. Numbered tickets will be distributed from 11:00 PM on December 31st.
Araiyakushi Baishouin
Araiyakushi Baishouin was founded in 1586 and became famous as the "eye medicine doctor" temple, owing to a legend in which the eye condition of a daughter of the second shogun, Tokugawa Hidetada, was healed through prayers offered here.
Information:
- Address: 5-3-5 Arai, Nakano, Tokyo
- Note: The first 108 visitors can strike the bell for 1,000 yen (includes a limited-edition amulet); all subsequent visitors may strike the bell for 500 yen.
Ikouzan Homyoji Temple
Homyo-ji Temple is a historic temple founded in 810 and serves as the main temple of Zoshigaya Kishimojindo Temple, which is venerated as a deity of safe childbirth and child-rearing.
Information:
- Address: 3-18-18 Minami-Ikebukuro, Toshima, Tokyo
- Note: Visitors strike the bell in small groups, continuing until the bell has been struck a total of 108 times, at which point the ceremony ends.
Tenryuji Temple
Tenryuji Temple was relocated to its current site in 1683. The "bell of time" on its grounds played an important role in Edo-period life, letting residents know the hour of the day. The bell is one of the "Three Great Bells of Edo" and has been designated a tangible cultural property of the ward.
Information:
- Address: 4-3-19 Shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo
- Note: The bell is struck from midnight on January 1st. Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis, and numbered tickets may be distributed.
If You're Interested in Japanese Tradition and Culture, Explore Historic Neighborhoods with a Local Guide!
If you have a deep interest in Japanese tradition and culture, participating in walking tours where you can explore Tokyo's historic neighborhoods with local guides is recommended.
In Asakusa, a neighborhood representing Tokyo's downtown culture, you can participate in tours where you walk and explore the area together with local guides. Magical Trip's Asakusa Cultural Walk & Matcha Making Tour offers not only exploration but also hands-on matcha making experience at a traditional tea house.
Additionally, Yanaka in Tokyo is a quiet old town area, and tours where you explore the old-style shopping streets and narrow alleys with a guide are also recommended.
Yanaka has fewer tourists compared to Asakusa, and the nostalgic shopping streets gather attractive restaurants and general stores. During the tour, you can also participate in workshops where you paint traditional cat figurines called "Maneki-neko" at old private house cafes in the shopping street.
Through enjoyable exploration and cultural experiences with local guides, let's experience Japanese traditional culture up close - perfect for this Tokyo Event December 2025 season.
<Asakusa Cultural Walk & Matcha Making Tour>
Meeting point: In front of Kaminarimon Police Box, Senso-ji/1-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Tour area: Asakusa
Start time: 11:00
<Yanaka Historical Walking Tour in Tokyo's Old Town>
Meeting point: Outside of Tokyo Metro Nezu Station Exit 1/1-1 Nezu, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
Tour area: Yanaka
Start time: 13:30
Gourmet and Alcohol-Related Tokyo Events December 2026
Whisky Festival 2026 in Tokyo
Whisky Festival 2025 in Tokyo is a whisky and gourmet event held in Takadanobaba. Whisky manufacturers, distilleries, and liquor retailers from Japan and around the world set up booths, allowing visitors to casually enjoy tasting various whiskies.
At this event, over 100 booths are exhibited, offering tastings of hundreds of different types of whisky. After paying the entrance fee to enter the venue, there are both paid and free tastings available, with nearly 80% being free tastings.
Suntory, a Japanese beverage manufacturer, also exhibits at the event, and their booth offers paid tastings of the world-popular Japanese whiskies Yamazaki and Hakushu.
You can also enjoy gourmet foods that pair perfectly with whisky, such as cheese and chocolate. Whether you're a fan of Japanese whisky or want to taste whiskies from around the world, why not consider participating in this remarkable Tokyo Event December 2025?
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- Dates: TBD for December 2026 (held December 6–7 in 2025)
- Access: Get off at JR Yamanote Line "Takadanobaba" station → 4 minutes walk from Toyama exit →Bellesalle Takadanobaba Event Hall
- Entrance fee: ¥5,000
- Website: https://whiskyfestival.jp/tokyo2025/
THE ROOF SHIBUYA SKY
In December, the rooftop bar "THE ROOF SHIBUYA SKY" on top of the high-rise building SHIBUYA SKY is also open for a limited period. SHIBUYA SKY is located right next to Shibuya Station and is a popular building as an observation spot where you can see Tokyo's night view.
THE ROOF SHIBUYA SKY has both standing bar and sofa seating areas. People who purchase SHIBUYA SKY entrance tickets can enter THE ROOF SHIBUYA SKY and use the standing bar.
Using the sofa seats requires reservations and special fees. By making a reservation and paying the fee, you get champagne and light meals included, and can use the sofa seats for 50 minutes with a panoramic view of Tokyo's night view through glass.
When I used it once, from the sofa seats I could see both Tokyo Tower and Skytree together, and I was able to enjoy Tokyo's night view in a very luxurious mood while drinking champagne.
The sofa seats are extremely popular, so early reservations are recommended. Reservations can be made from two weeks in advance, so please check the official website early for this exclusive Tokyo Event December 2025 experience.
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- Dates: TBD for December 2026 (held April 28 – December 25 in 2025)
- Access: Get off at JR Shibuya Station → 1 minute walk from JR Central Gate or JR South Gate towards the East Exit →SHIBUYA SKY
- Entrance fee: THE ROOF SEAT &STANDARD SET (sofa seats) ¥7,000~/ Shibuya Sky entrance ticket (standing bar only) ¥2,700~¥3,400
- Website: https://www.shibuya-scramble-square.com/sky/the-roof/
Belgian Beer Weekend
Belgian Beer Weekend is a Belgian beer event held at the Shinjuku Sumitomo Building Triangular Plaza, where visitors can enjoy directly imported Belgian beers and food.
At the event, you can savor more than 100 varieties of Belgian beer — including Trappist ales, white beers, and fruit beers — alongside traditional Belgian dishes such as frites, carbonnade, and waffles, fully immersing yourself in Belgian beer culture.
Because the beer is served in proper beer glasses, you can enjoy the full, unadulterated flavor that each brew has to offer.
Live performances by primarily Belgian artists are also held at the venue, and I enjoyed listening to live music while savoring plenty of my favorite beers.
A pocket guide listing all available beers along with a flavor chart is distributed at the event, so if you are unsure which beer to choose, use it as a reference to find the perfect brew for your taste.
This is one of the most enjoyable Tokyo Event December 2026 options for beer enthusiasts visiting the city.
Information:
- Dates: TBD for December 2026 (held December 3–7 in 2025)
- Address: 2-6-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo
- Access: 8-minute walk from Shinjuku Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://belgianbeerweekend.jp/
For Efficient Tokyo Sightseeing, We Recommend Hire Car Tours with Local Guides
So far, we've introduced many attractive events taking place in Tokyo in December. For those considering how to efficiently tour the vast city of Tokyo, we recommend using hire car tours.
The 1-Day Tokyo Highlights Tour allows you to spend a full day touring Tokyo in comfort with a local guide who knows Tokyo well and a dedicated driver in a comfortable car.
This tour carefully selects tourist spots where you can fully experience Tokyo's diverse attractions in one day. You'll visit many spots including Akihabara, Tsukiji Market, Tokyo Tower, and Shibuya's Scramble intersection, but by touring in a dedicated vehicle, you can enjoy them comfortably without getting tired.
From my perspective as someone living in Tokyo, being able to visit various Tokyo spots without worrying about detailed train schedules is truly a luxurious and delightful feature.
Facility admission fees and meal costs are all included in the tour price. Travel light while sightseeing in Tokyo and fully enjoy its attractions.
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Meeting point: Pick-up available at hotels mainly in Tokyo's 23 wards
Tour area: Asakusa, Akihabara, Tsukiji Market, Tokyo Tower, etc.
Start time: 9:00
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