Shinnen Ippan Sanga (New Year’s visit of the public to the Imperial Palace) 新年一般参賀

Note: The 2024 installment of this event has already taken place.

During this special annual New Year's event, the grounds of the Imperial Palace are open to the general public. On January 2nd, visitors gather in the square by Chowa-Den Hall to express their good wishes for the upcoming year. This is a unique opportunity for you to see the Emperor, Empress and other members of the Imperial Family.

To see the Imperial Family, enter the palace grounds through Nijubashi, the main gate. Then, make your way toward the East Gardens, and exit through either the Sakashita-mon Gate or Kikyo-mon Gate.

In 2024, visitors can attend without advance registration for the first time in four years. The event will be held five times throughout the day, with the Imperial Family making three appearances in the morning and two in the afternoon. It's expected that around 20,000 people can attend each appearance. Markers will indicate where to stand and visitors are to refrain from crowding or shouting.